Let’s convene

As we’re sure you’ve already heard, our annual UASD convention is coming up again, Nov. 7-9 at the Davis Conference Center in Layton, where it was held last year. While we haven’t nailed all the details down yet, you can count on training opportunities, hotel discounts and a great chance to network with your fellow local and special service districts.

There are ways you can prepare, too, that will boost your return on the experience. And don’t forget to leave time for fun!

• Think about how you’ll set yourself apart from the rest. For starters, contact UASD Executive Director LeGrand Bitter and ask if there is a way you can participate in the convention. Whether you’re a presenter or you’re helping associate members set up their booths, it builds your profile in a sea of unfamiliar faces. But leave yourself enough time to catch up with old friends and build on connections made at earlier gatherings. It wouldn’t hurt to give them a shout before the convention and make plans to slip away for a cup of coffee.

• Once the convention schedule is confirmed – you’ll see it on our website, UASD.org – you’ll want to come up with a game plan. Do a little research on the speakers and see who offers something that will help you down the road. Get a layout of the Davis Convention Center and work out the logistics. Don’t forget to take inventory of your own needs. Is there a training session you don’t want to miss? Plot it out in advance.

• Pack more than clean underwear. For starters, pick up a fresh supply of business cards. You’ll also want laptop and phone chargers that you can carry around with you, because if you’re working the room (as you should), you’re not going to spend much time back at the hotel recharging your electronics. And if someone’s interested in hearing a little more about what your district is doing, it wouldn’t hurt to have a brochure or two tucked away.

• Once there, draw on the strategies you’ve used in legislative circles. Listen more than you talk. Smile and use a firm handshake. Don’t develop a pack mentality, cruising the grounds with the co-workers you see every day. Making new connections is probably the single most valuable opportunity a convention offers, so make the most of it.

• Feeling overwhelmed yet? Whatever happens, don’t talk yourself out of attending. There is so much to absorb by simply being there. Once you have a few under your belt, you may ease into more involvement.

Check our social channels often for more information on this year’s event. If you have any questions, give us a shout at the UASD office. Otherwise, we’ll see you in November!