Masonry Magazine February 1996 Page. 15
Get the Most From
Your Convention
Your convention can bring you personal and professional renewal. Seize the opportunities your convention offers, and it will bring you tremendous benefits long after you return home.
Well, it's convention and Masonry Expo time again. Time to brush up on the latest developments in your field, renew old acquaintances, and take in a bit of relaxation at the same time. Ever wonder, though, whether you're getting the most out of your convention? If so, use these handy suggestions to help you take advantage of the tremendous opportunities the event can offer you:
Share your convention plans with your family-Let your family know why the conference and exposition is important and what you'll be doing each day of the event. Family separation can be hard, even though it's only for a few days, so make plans to call home at least once a day. And if you've got any unresolved needs at home-like a teacher's conference or an overdue repair job-handle them before you leave.
Make appointments with colleagues If you want to talk shop with colleagues you haven't seen in a while, call them beforehand and arrange to meet for lunch or a drink sometime during the event.
Review transportation arrangements in advance-Make your travel plans carefully. Shop for the best price and the most relaxing mode of transportation. And, since your return trip may involve different arrangements than your arrival trip, be sure you plan-and understand the right travel schedule.
Bring "show and tell" items-If you've had any unusual accomplishments or successes over the past year, bring "show and tell" items along: samples of manuals, ads and other materials you can pass around to your colleagues.
Learn about your destination-You'll probably have an opportunity for some travel and sightseeing when you reach New Orleans. So put your hands on a few travel brochures before you leave, and develop a simple itinerary of the things you'd like to see and do in your free time.
Conduct a personal "needs analysis"-Think about the problems and challenges you've faced over the last year and keep these in mind as you select workshops and seminars during the conference.
Prepare a master convention portfolio-Your master portfolio or folder should contain a convention schedule, a map of the facilities, note-paper, samples of items you're bringing along, and any other information you might need regularly. Carry your folder with you throughout your stay.
Read about presenters before you attend their workshops-Read about workshop and seminar leaders in your convention bulletins. Learn about their backgrounds and interests, and you'll better prepare yourself for their presentations.
Sit in a strategic location during workshops-Sit where you can gain a clear, unobstructed view of the