It’s just around the corner; time to get those appointments nailed down and social calendar set. There’s always a lot to do and much to learn. I’ve been going to NWCDC since it was held in the basement of a hotel in Chicago; based on that long experience here are a few things I’ve learned.
- Don’t schedule too tightly. It can take a bit to get from one meeting to the next, so be aware of location and how long it takes to get around. And don’t forget that you’re bound to run into colleagues and friends on the way – catching up always takes a few minutes.
- Set your schedule ahead of time. Review the agenda, figure out the must-dos, and block them out. Then, schedule around those must-dos.
- Download and use the NWCDC smartphone app. It is here. This is a no-brainer; it will make your life so much easier.
- Use your smartphone’s voice recorder to “take notes” after your meetings. Unless you’ve a much better memory than I have, it is too easy to forget what transpired, what you committed to do when. And, the voice function allows you to record your thoughts while heading to your next meeting.
- Don’t get caught up in the rumor mill. There’s a lot going on in Vegas, and the M&A world has never been busier. As one who has gotten it wrong a time or two, I’d suggest listening with a skeptical ear, and not passing anything on unless you’ve got the scoop from two different and credible sources – who didn’t get it from the other “different and credible” source!
- Know the landscape. The Mandalay Bay location is great – a very welcome change from the Hilton – but it is spread out and it takes a while to get from the meeting rooms to the lobby to the exhibit floor. And, there are two Starbucks, so make sure you are specific about where you are meeting.
- Wear sensible shoes. You are going to be on your feet all day and much of the evening, so be kind to them.
- Finally, what happens in Vegas gets posted on instagram. Don’t be stupid. Like these guys. Alcohol is not your friend, and this is not spring break.
Finally, among the events you should strongly consider, register here for the 2nd Annual Women in Work Comp Leadership Forum; it starts at 2 pm on November 10, the day before the official NWCDC kickoff.
