I’m a fan of webinars

I like the diversity of content and the convenience of delivery. I like the comfort of participation and the cost, often free, is almost always within my budget.

What’s not to like? On and on and on and on *required form fields. As in this signup for an Aquent sponsored American Marketing Association social media webinar.

There’s nothing wrong with capturing data. It’s expected by participants. But requiring 17 fields – 17! – to successfully register is asking too much. When you present an offer and then throw up one roadblock after another, the goal of participation becomes the reality of disappointment.

There are better ways to milk data from attendees

Email, first and last are about all I care to share going in. Maybe phone, but that’s about it unless Krugerrands are being discussed. But if I like the content, feel free to ask away after the experience. If it was good for me, you’ll know soon enough how much I’m willing to disclose in the interests of furthering the relationship.