As the Florida Turfgrass Association (FTGA) Annual Conference & Show (C&S) approaches, it is important to start considering how to make the most effective use of your time at the PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens. Most people attend for the education, networking and trade show, so here are some tips to ensure your time at the event is beneficial to your job and your future.
1.Create a "Must Attend" List - Carefully review the schedule of speakers and topics to determine which sessions are most important to you. Consider sessions that will help you with your job now and assist you in personal development for the future, as well as sessions that offer appropriate CEU, CCA! and/or PDI points. To review the schedule, visit www.ftga.org or call (800) 882-6721 for a copy of the Attendee Brochure.
2.Ask Questions - The speakers and educators at the C&S are a wealth of knowledge. Be sure to ask them questions either during the session or one-on-one as they are the experts who can advise you on issues impacting your business.
3.Explore and Utilize the Trade Show Floor - The FTGA C&S is the largest all-encompassing turfgrass event in Florida, so it is the perfect place to evaluate products and meet with industry professionals. If you aren't familiar with a company, be sure and ask them what they do. You never know whe! n they have just the product or service you need. These exhibitors are great resources, so utilize their expertise during this time.
4.Networking - Spend time renewing old friendships and meeting new people. Take the time to reconnect/connect, learn and share. The C&S serves as an invaluable opportunity to visit with old and new friends from around the state and from all aspects of the Florida turfgrass industry.
5.Report Back - Before leaving for the C&S, make sure you have your business operating smoothly while you are away. That way, there are no "bumps" while you are gone. When you return, write a brief summary of what you learned and how the C&S benefitted you and the business. This lets your employer see the value in you as an employee and the event as a professional development opportunity.
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Exhibit Information
There are less than 25 trade show booths available. To ensure your company will have a trade show booth, click on the link to download the exhibitor form http://www.ftga.org/index.php?p=5&sp=12&ssp=3.
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Sponsor Information
The FTGA has several sponsorship opportunities still available. If your company is interested in becoming an event sponsor, visit http://www.ftga.org/index.php?p=5&sp=12&ssp=3.
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Hotel Information
The FTGA group rate is $139 per night for a standard sleeping room. In order to receive the group rate, book your hotel room before August 31, 2008. PGA's phone number is (877) 742-6285 or complete your hotel reservation online http://www.ftga.org/index.php?p=5&sp=12&ssp=3.