Originally Posted By: psabados
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Hey Guys and Ladies
A Convention should be educational, informative and social event
My thought that since the majority attendees would be traveling a long distance a weekend type affair would be cost prohibitive to many. So to maximize the value a mid week start would be the ideal time. Taking into consideration that in the winter season in cooler and colder climates the market has a tendency to slow down somewhat. Also, scheduling around something like this would not be so very difficult.
I realize this may not hold true in everyone's market, but generally after Christmas sales are lower. A Wednesday evening welcoming mixer/cocktail event would be a great start. This would give the attendee's a chance to meet a greet new and old friends and acquaintances.
Thursday morning and general welcoming meeting by the Leaders, Nick, Committee Heads, Legal Dept. and other prominent members would be basic start. A few well selected speakers could then create separate walk-off sessions for CE credits and general information. This could be general inspection categories of the SOP etc.
For lunches everyone could be on their own or have a buffet type meal set up for the general group. A short afternoon session of about two hours and then call it quits for the day.
Friday basically the same format, more CE and classes, if enough speakers can be found. A sum it all up Friday evening and maybe a large dinner for all attendees and family. End of the official sessions.
Now this would give everyone a solid bonus day on Saturday to do whatever, Golf, swimming, parks. Events could be planned during the meeting sessions for family members to participate in other events, such as shopping for the ladies, spa treatments or whatever.
Also during the course of the convention, it would be advantageous to have vendors showing and selling what's new in inspection equipment, software and computers. Just like a lot of the chapter meetings have been able to do but on a much larger basis.
Now the big question is! For anyone to take time off, travel maybe all the way across the country and to spend some cash. Does it have to be more than just fun?
Finally, its going to take more than one or two people to organize this type of an event and volunteers will be needed. Could this be a powerful and outstanding event? You know it can.
These are just my thoughts, the more input the better for all. Count me in and I will be a volunteer also.
Paul
