We are officially at the end of the Convention season and the beginning of show season preparation. After more meetings than I can count, I have gained more knowledge and perspective. Below you read the Top 10 things I have taken from award banquets and convention meetings.
10. TIME. Put in the time and effort. If you arenotwilling to put in the time and effort,don't complain.I have observed so many people telling VOLUNTEERS what they are doing wrong but have not been a part of the process. It is great to share observations butif you want change, be a part of the change.
9.THANK YOU.Say Thank You every time. Even if you disagree with meeting times, food choices or venue, more hours and energy has gone into putting on the convention than you know. The words "Thank You" will go a long way.
8.LISTEN.Even if you disagree, listen. The more views you can understand, the better perspective you can gain. Even if it doesn't change your mind, you can learn something. Knowledge is power.
7. FOOD-no matter how you dress it up, convention food is all the same! It has improved over the years, but there are only so many ways you can serve hundreds or even thousands of people a good meal and still make it "banquet-worthy".
6.DRESSING UP: You may think that Prom was over after High School, but that's not true! Convention season is the horse show version of Prom Season! You are used to seeing your peers and your customers only in "barn clothes" or riding suits, and suddenly you don't know who anyone is walking by you at the hotel!
5.TALK TO PEOPLE. Talk to people you don't know. In the line of work we are in, there are few opportunities to expand your social circle, but this is one of them! This is your chance to make new friends, learn new things, and network within the industry -you never know where it might lead you or who you might meet!
4.LOCATION:It doesn't really matter where the convention is. The actual locationis secondary because you rarely, if at all, leave the hotel. The reality is, you pray for a hotel with room with good coffee, a decent continental breakfast, and Room Service.
3.INVEST IN YOUR TEAM ATTENDING: Invest in your people -whether it is celebrating a success or attending a meeting, put the money into including your team. They are an integral part of your success and need to be part of conventions and meetings to be educated and to feel valued.
2.GO- Just GO. I complain about going every year but each year I return home with a bit more knowledge, a lot more perspective and a bigger vision for both my barn and the industry as a whole.
1.BE GRATEFUL. Don't take one award for granted. The accolades do not come along as often as you think. Remember that they are a testament to not only you, but your staff, your work, your horses and your customers. Many would only dream of the opportunity to walk up on stage to receive an award. Celebrate it, be thankful for it and then go home and get to work.
Have a great week.
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