Disclosure: I am writing this post in exchange for a discounted conference ticket to SoFabU on the Road; however, all opinions are mine and mine alone. #CollectiveBias

I started this blog in 2008. Even though I have seven years of blogging experience, I feel like I still have a ton to learn and am excited to attend another conference this year. Blogging education is amazing, but there are more reasons to attend a blogging conference. If you are a blogger, I highly recommend attending conferences regularly. Here’s my top 5 reasons I attend conferences:

1. Networking
It’s so important to meet and network with both bloggers and brands. You can gain experience, friendships and future jobs through networking at a blogging conference. You will grow your online circles of influence and know that you are not alone in the blogging world.

2. Discover your Tribe
Your tribe is your cheerleaders, supporters, friends and people you count on to help you with your blogging journey. As a tribe member, you share your expertise, struggles and successes and provide advice or support for other members and they do the same for you.

My Tribe from a 2014 Conference!

3. Learn
Blogging is very dynamic and constantly changing. There is always more to learn and conferences teach you important and up-to-date blogging, business and/or social media skills essential to blogging success.

4. Tax Benefits
If you monetize your blog, you can use conference cost, meal, travel and hotel costs as a business expense at the end of the year.

5. Enjoy some ‘me time’
If you are a busy mom, conferences are like a mini vacation. No dishes, dirty laundry or cooking for at least a day, sometimes even two or three days. For me, conferences are a nice break from the daily grind where I can just be me and enjoy adult interaction.

I always attend at least one blogging conference every year, and make the most of my time while I’m there to learn and network.

Have you attended a blogging conference? What other reasons to attend would you add to my list?