Upcoming Events

Outsourced LIVE D.C.
Oct
16

Outsourced LIVE D.C.

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PRICING:

Early Bird Rate (Until Aug 1): $349 for members | $449 for non-members

Regular Rate: $399 for members | $499 for non-members

DETAILED AGENDA & SESSION DESCRIPTIONS:

8:00 - 9:00 AM: REGISTRATION & NETWORKING BREAKFAST

AGU Main Lobby

Start your day connecting with fellow outsourced professionals over a curated breakfast experience. This dedicated networking time allows you to make initial connections before the formal program begins.

9:00 - 9:15 AM: OPENING REMARKS

Main Hall

"The State of Outsourced Work: Why This Community Matters Now"
Matthew Ott, Executive Director, OPA

A compelling introduction to the day, setting the context for why the Outsourced Professionals Association was created and the collective impact we can have as a unified community. This session will unveil OPA's vision for the future and set the collaborative tone for the day.

9:15 - 10:15 AM: KEYNOTE ADDRESS

Main Hall

"From Freelance to Freedom: Building Sustainable Independence in the New Economy"
Featured Speaker TBA

Our keynote will explore how outsourced professionals are redefining success on their own terms, backed by fresh data on the expanding independent workforce. You'll discover the emerging opportunities in this rapidly evolving landscape and how to position yourself at the forefront of this movement. Gain strategic insights on building resilience, establishing authority, and creating sustainable revenue models that weather economic fluctuations.

10:15 - 10:30 AM: MORNING BREAK

Networking Lounge

Refresh and connect with peers between sessions. OPA volunteers will be available to help facilitate introductions based on your interests and specialties.

10:30 - 11:30 AM: INTERACTIVE WORKSHOP

Main Hall

"AI: Friend not Foe — Building the Optimal Tech Stack for Outsourced Professionals"

This hands-on session explores how independent professionals can leverage AI tools to scale their operations without adding hours or headcount. You'll learn:

  • How to identify repetitive tasks in your workflow that are ripe for automation

  • A practical framework for evaluating which AI tools are worth your investment

  • Real-world case studies of freelancers who have doubled productivity with strategic AI implementation

  • Ethical considerations and best practices for using AI in client deliverables

Participants will leave with a personalized technology roadmap and access to OPA's AI Tool Resource Guide.

11:30 AM - 12:45 PM: FACILITATED ROUNDTABLE LUNCH

Breakout Rooms

"Peer Exchange & Networking Lunch by Practice Area"

Connect with peers in your specific discipline during this structured networking experience. Facilitated discussions will focus on industry-specific challenges and opportunities, while encouraging meaningful relationship-building. Roundtables will be organized by practice area:

  • Marketing & Communications Professionals

  • Operations & Project Management Specialists

  • Finance & Accounting Experts

  • Technology & Development Consultants

  • Executive Leadership & Strategy Advisors

  • Creative Services Providers

  • HR & Talent Management Consultants

  • Sales & Business Development Professionals

Each table will have a designated facilitator to ensure productive conversations and equal participation.

12:45 - 1:30 PM: COLLABORATIVE INSIGHTS SESSION

Main Hall

"Collective Intelligence: Key Takeaways from Roundtable Discussions"

This unique session brings together insights from each roundtable group, identifying common challenges, innovative solutions, and emerging trends across disciplines. Facilitators will present key findings, followed by an interactive discussion on how these insights can shape future OPA initiatives and resources.

1:30 - 2:30 PM: EXPERT PANEL

Main Hall

"The Value Equation: Pricing Best Practices for Setting Rates & Winning Contracts"

Our panel of seasoned professionals will share battle-tested strategies for pricing services, creating compelling proposals, and negotiating client agreements. You'll learn:

  • How to move from hourly to value-based pricing models

  • Techniques for communicating your worth to potential clients

  • Strategies for handling price objections and negotiating favorable terms

  • Methods for increasing rates with existing clients

  • Contract clauses that protect your interests and set healthy boundaries

Panelists represent diverse industries and experience levels to provide relevant insights regardless of your specialty or career stage.

2:30 - 2:45 PM: AFTERNOON BREAK

Networking Lounge

Recharge and continue conversations from earlier sessions. OPA board members will be available for informal mentoring conversations.

2:45 - 3:45 PM: INTERACTIVE WORKSHOP

Main Hall

"Your 90-Day Scale Strategy: From Vision to Execution"

This working session will help you develop a concrete plan to scale your independent practice over the next quarter. Through guided exercises, you'll:

  • Identify your highest-leverage growth opportunities

  • Create clear, measurable goals with specific timelines

  • Develop systems to manage increased workload without sacrificing quality

  • Build accountability mechanisms to stay on track

You'll leave with a customized 90-day action plan and access to quarterly check-in sessions with fellow participants to maintain momentum.

3:45 - 4:30 PM: KEYNOTE SESSION

Main Hall

"Building Your Brand: Standing Out in a Crowded Marketplace"

This dynamic presentation will cover the essential elements of a compelling personal brand for outsourced professionals. You'll discover:

  • How to craft a distinctive positioning statement that resonates with ideal clients

  • Practical techniques for building authority through content and thought leadership

  • Strategies for maintaining visibility without constant self-promotion

  • Methods for leveraging client success stories to attract new opportunities

  • Digital presence optimization that generates inbound opportunities

This session includes actionable templates and tools to implement a focused brand strategy immediately.

4:30 - 5:00 PM: CLOSING SESSION

Main Hall

"From Insights to Action: Implementing What You've Learned"

This interactive closing session will help you consolidate your key takeaways and build an implementation plan. Through guided reflection and peer accountability pairing, you'll prioritize your insights and commit to specific actions.

The session concludes with the OPA Community Recognition Awards, celebrating exceptional contributions to the outsourced professional community.

5:00 - 6:30 PM: NETWORKING RECEPTION

AGU Rooftop Terrace

"Connections & Celebrations"

Continue building meaningful relationships while enjoying panoramic views of DC from the AGU's exclusive rooftop terrace. This reception features curated networking activities, light refreshments, and opportunities to meet OPA leadership. Associate Members will host themed tables for deeper conversations about specific business challenges.

ADDITIONAL PROGRAM FEATURES

Resource Marketplace
Open throughout the day - AGU Lobby

Explore tools, services, and resources specifically selected to support independent professionals. Associate Members will showcase their offerings and provide exclusive discounts for OPA members.

Genius Bar
Open during breaks - Tech Lounge

Schedule a 15-minute consultation with experts in legal, accounting, technology, or marketing to address your specific business questions.

Professional Headshot Studio
Open 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM - Studio Room

Complimentary professional headshots for all attendees, with digital delivery within one week after the event.

Implementation Workbook
All attendees receive a comprehensive workbook designed to capture insights and create actionable plans from each session.

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