We have already reported on meetings within the antitrust community (see here). Perhaps the most renowned and significantly largest gathering is the ABA Antitrust Spring Meeting in Washington, D.C., which is currently underway. A bit off topic, we have summarized the six golden rules to survive enjoy the Spring Meeting (in particular for non-US lawyers).
Rule 1 – Arrival
Ensure that your luggage arrives along with you, because if it doesn’t — even if you manage to escape the immigration queue — you’ll find yourself either dashing around in joggers or purchasing new business attire (though shops can be scarce in downtown DC). An expert’s alternative: Fly to New York for better shopping options and then take the train from there. Some individuals have even mentioned traveling with carry-on luggage only, but we’re still deliberating on that….
Rule 2 – Work Allocation
Traveling to DC, even flying in from another continent, only to find yourself confined to a tiny (or, depending on your law firm’s budget, larger) hotel room for work is not an ideal scenario. Consider leaving the workload to those back home and maintain open communication with your clients. Hint: Posting a picture with the cherry blossoms on LinkedIn is not the sole method to inform your clients of your time zone difference. Utilizing the jetlag to begin work at four in the morning is also an option, although it becomes increasingly challenging as the conference (and the receptions) progress.
Rule 3 – Skip the morning coffee (and even breakfast)
You will have the opportunity to drink as much coffee and indulge in pastries and similar treats, which can be enjoyable. However, it’s important to know your limits and recognize that consuming pastries and coffee all day – followed by drinks in the evening (see rule number 5 below) – is not a healthy choice.
Rule 4 – Value every conversation
A lot is happening all the time, but your current ‘quick coffee’ appointment might not appreciate you already scanning the large Marriott lobby to see if your next appointment has arrived or who your local competitor is talking to.
Rule 5 – Don’t drink too much
With free drinks everywhere, this might seem a bit counterintuitive. Although the drinks encourage you to approach the local counsel you’ve always wanted to talk to but who regularly overlooks you, you may not enjoy finding yourself performing ‘Summer of ’69’ (or one of Taylor Swift’s hits) in front of your colleagues from across the globe. Also, the week can feel longer than one would anticipate on a warm Tuesday evening (see also above).
Rule 6 – Enjoy what we have
In times of global turmoil, the gathering of lawyers and professionals from across the globe to exchange views, engage in open and fair discussions, and enjoy each other’s company is something we should truly appreciate and celebrate. Many thanks to the organizers and the helping hands who ensure that everything runs smoothly year after year.
See you around.
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