Imagine an event where you get to meet with social media pros and enthusiasts alike who love the industry just as much as you do. Now add the ambiance of Chicago’s diverse collection of architecture, culturally vibrant community and home to some of the world’s greatest companies. That’s a small sampling of what’s in store for you at Social Media Week Chicago 2013!

Every year, Social Media Week is celebrated in select cities around the world bringing in some of the world’s top social media experts and entrepreneurs together to speak to like-minded peers and continuing bridging the industry together. With a diverse calendar of events, there’s something for everyone!

Whether you’re a seasoned social media pro or just getting your feet wet, here are four reasons why you should attend Social Media Week Chicago:

1. You’ll Learn Something
Not everyone can be an expert at everything. One of the main reasons people attend Social Media Week is to obtain more knowledge on topics they’re either interested in, work in a field that has ties to the topic, or both, and many of the speakers at these events can provide valuable insights. Even if you don’t learn something new from the speaker, being in a room full of like-minded people is an added bonus – pick away at each others’ brains!

2. Valuable Networking
Networking events are a great way to get into a room with lots of new people, and making connections to expand your personal network can prove to be valuable in the long run. And with social media, staying in touch with new-found friends can be done at the click of a mouse. Also, it’s not uncommon running into the same people at different events, so say hello to everybody!

3. In-Person Connections
One of the many perks of an event like Social Media Week Chicago is finally having the chance to meet an online friend in real life. It’s very refreshing to find that when meeting them in person, they’re the same person (most of the time) as they are online!

4. We’re Hosting an Event!
The Gossip Genie team has been given the honor to host an event at Social Media Week Chicago! In what is shaping up to be a popular event, we will be speaking on the topic of lead generation within social media. Want to sign up for the event? Register today: Generating Leads Through Social Media