Masonry Magazine October 1976 Page. 17
Left: The Cabildo facing Jackson Square - in this building, erected originally as the seat of the Spanish Colonial government, the transfer of the Louisiana territory took place in 1803. Right: Jackson Square - it is one of the most interesting areas in New Orleans because it remains the hub of the Old City. In the background is the well-known landmark, St. Louis Cathedral.
Plan Your '77 Convention Attendance
The key to bigger returns from convention attendance is planned participation. Now that our annual event is just around the corner, it will pay you to heed these reminders, which are based on member experience.
1. Evaluate the program. Study every session, speaker, social function, etc., well in advance, to get them fixed in your mind. Underscore the ones that interest you most. Then some last-minute distraction is less likely to divert you.
2. Summarize your needs. One of the main reasons for holding the convention is to bring members together so they can swap ideas and solve each others' problems. Jot down your own concerns and dilemmas and bring your notes to the meeting so you can get first-hand advice and suggestions. Use it as your "shopping list" for ideas and solutions.
3. Command attention. Once at the convention, be sure to speak up. Don't wait to be called upon; if you don't inject your interests and problems, who will? Take advantage of discussion periods and reciprocate by answering as many questions as you can. There's a way to do this without appearing to dominate. First, hold back to see if others have an answer; second, accumulate three or four unanswered points and tie them together when you take the floor.
4. Keep on the go. Circulate - don't hide away. The convention is a banner opportunity to contact others and learn what you want to know. Breakfasts, luncheons and impromptu "bull sessions" sometimes yield better returns than the formal sessions. You can absorb a lot just lounging around with people and talking shop. That's no reflection on the program, which is the catalyst that brings the group together.
5. Don't hide away. Eat with someone different every meal. "Float" at parties and receptions. The member you haven't spoken to yet may help you most.
6. Get directions. If you don't know which members can aid you with a given problem, consult an association officer or someone on the staff. They usually know who is most qualified or experienced in particular areas and can steer you to the experts.
7. Introduce yourself. Your badge gives you the right to meet new people, most of whom will be pleased to get this attention. Years later someone will say, "You were the first person to speak to me at my first convention."
8. Make notes. In the rush of activity, it's easy to forget specific tips, names and sources. Keep a special notebook and write them down while they are fresh in your mind. After adjournment, if you need more information, you can follow up by telephone or letter. Your fellow members will be glad to hear from you.
And don't overlook the technical exhibits! A trade show or exhibit is more than just a display of products. It is an invitation to you to grow in ability and effectiveness by tapping the accumulated know-how of every manufacturer and supplier represented. Here is your golden opportunity to match your worst problems against the full spectrum of equipment and services all arrayed and expertly attended for your convenience.
The exhibitors naturally hope to sell you on their particular line or item. But they know you can't buy everything any more than your wife can purchase everything in the supermarket. But by examining what's offered, you can spot the things you do need and save hours of correspondence and interviews by eliminating those which would not help you.
You are under no obligation to inspect or buy. Let your own self-interest determine your course of action. Check the list of exhibitors in terms of your immediate and future requirements. Don't hesitate to browse as long as you wish; sometimes a solution brings to light a hidden need or a chance for improvement you didn't know existed.
An open mind is the "Open, Sesame!" to dividends from the show.