Just a few notes for future convention travel - some based on my own faux pas, some on others (who shall remain anonymous).
It's obvious to check the weather of your destination, however, I managed to overlook the front/storm that came through and the accompanying temperature drop. I'm from Florida, the weather looked warmish, hence that's how I packed. With no closed toe shoes, my feet have been freezing pretty much the whole week. Don't do what I did.
Be considerate of speakers and attendees in meetings. If you brought food, please try to consume it quietly so we can hear what the presenter is saying. When you arrive late or leave early, ensure the door opening & closing is not a further distraction.
Meet new people. Yes, your comfort zone may be to travel in packs with the people you already know, but how does that help you and your business? I'm not suggesting you shun friends & connections from your local or state association, but you will really expand when you talk to those outside your local & state associations.
Don't go to every event. Choose the ones you have a passion for, or want to know more about. The majority of the meetings are open (closed & ticketed meetings are clearly marked), and you can gain an incredible amount of knowledge without formally being a committee member. It's all information you can bring back to your local membership.
Schedule some down time. You need it in order to be at your best for your next meeting or event.
Get outside! There is nothing worse than burnout from having been in the host hotel/convention center for 3 days straight, and you just crave fresh air and sunshine.
Send handwritten notes to the contacts you REALLY connected with. I focused on finding CIPS designees this trip, which helped me shape my convention schedule to facilitate these connections. Nourish & remind them who you are, and the benefits of your area so when a referral opportunity comes up, they think of you.
BTW the tickets where we sat was quite pricey so you figure it is not how much money or what profession one is in "common sense" is a rare commodity:)), Endre
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