{"id":707,"date":"2018-02-26T17:33:05","date_gmt":"2018-02-26T22:33:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/?page_id=707"},"modified":"2018-04-10T12:16:52","modified_gmt":"2018-04-10T16:16:52","slug":"first-time-attendees","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/first-time-attendees\/","title":{"rendered":"Tips and Resources for First-Time Convention Attendees"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"pl-707\"  class=\"panel-layout\" ><div id=\"pg-707-0\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-707-0-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-707-0-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-719 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/02\/first-timer-webpage-general-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/02\/first-timer-webpage-general-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/02\/first-timer-webpage-general-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/02\/first-timer-webpage-general-272x182.jpg 272w, https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/02\/first-timer-webpage-general.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/>For new members, first-time attendees, or anyone wanting to get the most out of <a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NIA\u2019s 63<sup>rd<\/sup> Annual Convention,<\/a> April 18\u201320, 2018, in Orlando, Florida, we have some helpful advice and insider tips for you. As a first timer or new member, know that you are not alone! <strong>On average, 15% of Convention attendees are first timers or new members.<\/strong> If you don't find an answer to your questions here, email <a href=\"&#x6d;&#97;i&#x6c;&#116;&#111;&#x3a;&#x65;&#118;e&#x6e;&#116;s&#x40;&#x69;&#110;s&#x75;&#108;a&#x74;&#x69;&#111;n&#x2e;&#111;r&#x67;\">ev&#101;&#110;&#116;&#x73;&#x40;&#x69;&#x6e;&#x73;ul&#97;&#116;&#105;&#x6f;&#x6e;&#x2e;&#x6f;&#x72;g<\/a> and we'll get back to you. <a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/attendees\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here<\/a> to see who has already registered for the event.<\/p>\n<h2>Convention Basics<\/h2>\n<p>With the theme of <strong>Learn, Lead, and Share<\/strong> for 2018, NIA\u2019s Annual Convention is the premier event for the insulation industry and attracts hundreds of attendees from all industry segments, including Merit and Union contractors, Distributors\/Fabricators, Associates (Manufacturers), and Metal Building Laminators. Held each spring in a warm-weather destination, this event is open to both NIA members and non-members. Attendees at this event learn the latest industry trends at educational sessions, gain new business contacts, network, and build relationships. <a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/networking\/silent-auction\/\">NIA\u2019s Silent Auction,<\/a> a biennial event, is taking place this year on Friday evening.<\/p>\n<h2>Maximizing Your Convention Experience<\/h2>\n<h3>Tips and To-Dos before Convention<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/location\/hotel-reservations\/\">Book your hotel room before March 26<\/a>\u2014which is the cut-off date for NIA\u2019s discounted room block.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/register\/\">Consider bringing your spouse or a guest<\/a>\u2014about 40% of people bring someone along.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/schedule\/\">Schedule to arrive on Tuesday, April 17\u2014<\/a>events on Wednesday start at 7:30 a.m.<\/li>\n<li>Pack casual attire\u2014suggestions include golf shirts, khakis, resort wear, and comfy shoes.<\/li>\n<li>Bring plenty of business cards and carry them with you\u2014<a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/networking\/evening-events\/\">networking is a key component of NIA\u2019s Convention<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>If you golf, reserve your spot in <a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/networking\/golf-tournament\/\">NIA\u2019s Golf Tournament<\/a> when you register before March 23 (a separate fee is required).<\/li>\n<li>Get this year's signature <a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/networking\/golf-tournament\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NIA golf shirt<\/a> and start your collection\u2014the deadline to order is March 14.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/nias-mobile-meeting-app\/\">Download NIA\u2019s Mobile Meeting App<\/a> and get familiar with it before you leave\u2014it puts the info you need at your fingertips.<\/li>\n<li>Use the Customized Sample Schedules by NIA Member Type on this page to plan out your schedule before you arrive.<\/li>\n<li>See who else is coming\u2014we <a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/attendees\/\">post a new attendee list<\/a> every Friday.<\/li>\n<li>Check out <a href=\"http:\/\/nia18.orlandomeetinginfo.com\/\">exclusive NIA discounts<\/a> at theme parks and restaurants\u2014many of these must be purchased in advance.<\/li>\n<li>Get matched with a Membership Committee member and learn about the Annual Convention through our Ambassador Program (more information is available below).<\/li>\n<li>Look for an attendee email from NIA about a week before the Convention\u2014it has any last-minute details that will help you be better prepared.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Tips and To-Dos during Convention<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Make sure to attend the NIA Member Orientation and the Convention First-Timer and VIP Reception on Wednesday, these events are specially designed for first time attendees (more information is below).<\/li>\n<li>Don\u2019t miss NIA\u2019s meal events\u2014many of your meals are included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Wednesday; breakfast on Thursday: and breakfast and dinner on Friday; plus amazing desserts at the Hosted Dessert Hospitality Suites, which are open to everyone.<\/li>\n<li>Use those business cards you packed\u2014time to make business connections.<\/li>\n<li>Be ready to tell fellow attendees about yourself and your company\u2014your badge will help identify you as a first-timer.<\/li>\n<li>Speak up if you have questions\u2014committee meetings are an ideal place for questions and sharing information. Open committee meetings are marked in the schedule and all are welcome to attend and participate. <\/li>\n<li>Share your Convention highlights with colleagues and on social media\u2014we have a hashtag! #NIAmeets.<\/li>\n<li>Stop by the NIA Registration Desk or find a NIA Staff person for any on-site questions you might have\u2014we are happy to assist you. Look for the staff ribbon on their badges.<\/li>\n<li>Attend the committee meeting that matches your company\u2019s membership category. Note that some of the committee meetings have forum-style speakers too and an * means you need an invitation to attend, so email <a href=\"m&#97;&#x69;&#x6c;t&#111;&#58;&#x65;&#x76;e&#110;&#x74;&#x73;&#64;&#105;&#110;&#x73;&#x75;l&#97;&#x74;&#x69;o&#110;&#46;&#x6f;&#x72;g\">&#x65;v&#x65;&#110;&#x74;&#115;&#x40;&#x69;n&#x73;&#117;&#x6c;&#97;&#x74;&#105;o&#x6e;&#46;&#x6f;&#114;&#x67;<\/a> if you are interested. To learn more general information about committees, <a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/membership\/committees-minutes\/\">click here<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 60px;\"><strong>Wednesday, April 18<br \/> <\/strong>9:35\u201311:35 a.m. Health and Safety Forum and Committee<br \/> 9:35\u201311:35 a.m. Technical Information Committee<br \/> 1:05\u20133:00 p.m. Merit Contractors Committee<br \/> 1:05\u20133:00 p.m. Union Contractors Subcommittee (Open only to Signatory Contractors of the International)*<br \/> 1:05\u20133:30 p.m. Associates Forum and Committee<br \/> 1:05\u20133:30 p.m. Distributors\/Fabricators Forum and Committee<br \/> 3:05\u20133:50 p.m. Joint Union\/Merit Contractors Meeting<br \/> 3:55\u20135:40 p.m. Young Professional Advisory Forum and Committee (YPAC)*<br \/> 3:55\u20135:40 p.m. Metal Building Laminators Forum and Committee<\/p>\n<p>* denotes an invitation-only meeting <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-707-0-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-707-0-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"1\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<h3>Sample Schedules by NIA Member Type<\/h3>\n<p>Based on your company's membership type, here are sample schedules to show you which meetings and events you won't want to miss!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/04\/2018-Schedule_FirstTime-Contractor.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to view the Contractor Sample Schedule<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/04\/2018-Schedule_FirstTime-Associate.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to view the Associate (Manufacturer) Sample Schedule<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/DistributorFabricator-Schedule.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to view the Distributor\/Fabricator Sample Schedule<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/03\/AttendeeSchedules_MBL.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to view the Metal Building Laminator Sample Schedule<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/04\/2018-Schedule_FirstTime-Young-Professional.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to view the Young Professional Sample Schedule<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/03\/AttendeeSchedules_SpouseGuest.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to view the Spouse\/Guest Sample Schedule<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-707-1\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-707-1-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-707-1-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"2\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<h2>Exclusive Events and Programs for New Members and First-Time Attendees<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-707-2\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-707-2-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-707-2-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"3\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-714\" src=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/02\/ambassador-program-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/02\/ambassador-program-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/02\/ambassador-program-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/02\/ambassador-program-272x182.jpg 272w, https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/02\/ambassador-program.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-707-2-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-707-2-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"4\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h3 class=\"widget-title\">Ambassador Program<\/h3>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>Take advantage of NIA\u2019s Ambassador Program: When you register and check the box that you are a first-time attendee, you are automatically matched with a Membership Committee member who will reach out to you prior to Convention to answer any questions you may have and provide additional information that would be helpful for your first Convention. For any questions, contact <a href=\"&#109;&#x61;i&#108;&#x74;o&#58;&#x6d;e&#109;&#x62;e&#114;&#x73;&#104;&#x69;&#x70;&#64;&#x69;&#x6e;&#115;&#x75;l&#97;&#x74;i&#111;&#x6e;&#46;&#111;&#x72;g\">&#x6d;&#x65;&#x6d;&#98;&#101;&#114;sh&#x69;&#x70;&#x40;&#x69;&#110;&#115;ul&#x61;&#x74;&#x69;&#x6f;&#110;&#46;or&#x67;<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-707-3\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-707-3-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-707-3-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"5\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-492\" src=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2016\/10\/MemberOrientation-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2016\/10\/MemberOrientation-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2016\/10\/MemberOrientation-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2016\/10\/MemberOrientation-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2016\/10\/MemberOrientation-272x182.jpg 272w, https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2016\/10\/MemberOrientation.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-707-3-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-707-3-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"6\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h3 class=\"widget-title\">New Member Orientation<\/h3>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p><strong>Wednesday, April 18, 9:00\u20139:30 a.m.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Get introduced to a NIA mentor, learn how to get the most out of Convention, and find out which events will be beneficial for your business type. This invitation-only orientation includes an overview of how NIA serves its members and the industry, and introduces our new members and first-time attendees to NIA\u2019s staff, committee members, and association leaders. If you are a first-time Convention attendee, be sure to check the \u201cFirst Convention\u201d box when you register.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-707-4\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-707-4-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-707-4-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"7\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-752\" src=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/03\/Image-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/03\/Image-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/03\/Image-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/03\/Image-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/03\/Image-272x182.jpg 272w, https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/03\/Image.jpg 1500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-707-4-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-707-4-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"8\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h3 class=\"widget-title\">Convention First-Timer and VIP Reception<\/h3>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p><strong>Wednesday, April 18, 5:45\u20136:30 p.m.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>At this invitation-only cocktail reception you'll have the opportunity to network and mingle with NIA leaders and staff. Use this relaxed atmosphere to find out more about the Convention, NIA's committees, our educational programs, or just enjoy getting to know members of NIA. Invitations are required. To ensure your invitation and space at this event, be sure to check the \"First Convention\" box when you register.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-707-5\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-707-5-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-707-5-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"9\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<h3>Helpful Tips after Convention<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Follow up and reach out to any new connections you made during your time at Convention.<\/li>\n<li>Complete the online Convention attendee survey that will be emailed after Convention\u2014honest feedback helps us make the event better for all attendees.<\/li>\n<li>Keep an eye out for the post-Convention email, this communication will include information about the speaker presentations made during the event.<\/li>\n<li>Save the date for future NIA events: <a href=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/fallsummit2018\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NIA's Fall Summit<\/a>, November 14-15, 2018, MGM National Harbor, National Harbor, Maryland; and NIA\u2019s 64<sup>th<\/sup> Annual Convention: April 3\u20135, 2019, <a href=\"https:\/\/bahamar.grand.hyatt.com\/en\/hotel\/home.html\">Grand Hyatt Baha Mar<\/a>, Nassau, Bahamas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-707-6\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-707-6-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-707-6-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"10\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">What the Pros Say about Attending NIA Meetings!<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-707-7\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-707-7-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-707-7-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"11\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-720 size-thumbnail\" src=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/02\/JoeLeo-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/>Tips from Joseph Leo, NIA Board of Directors\u2014ESICA Representative, and President, Atlantic Contracting &amp; Specialties, LLC, Hicksville, NY<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>You made a decision to come to the convention, SO BE AT THE CONVENTION\u2014instead of having your mind on your business operations 24\/7, you must try to turn that off and focus on fully attending the convention and all that it offers.<\/li>\n<li>Always carry business cards with you, even at the pool.<\/li>\n<li>Go to all the orientation sessions and first-timer events.<\/li>\n<li>Network, it is what you\u2019re there for!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-707-7-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-707-7-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"12\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-721 size-thumbnail\" src=\"https:\/\/insulation.org\/convention2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/23\/2018\/02\/DanaVlk-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" \/>Tips from Dana Vlk, NIA Board of Directors, Secretary\/Treasurer, and VP, Marketing, Distribution International, Inc. <br \/><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>NIA\u2019s Mobile Meeting App\u2014You\u2019ll find everything you need to know in the app. Easily export your meetings into your Outlook calendar and retrieve contact information for Convention attendees. Be sure to populate your complete contact information into the app so your new contacts know how to reach you.<\/li>\n<li>Meetings\u2014Attend as many meetings as possible. In addition to great educational opportunities, each meeting has a networking opportunity you don\u2019t want to miss. This is a great way to collaborate with people from all over the country and bring future value to your business. Be sure to attend the First-Timers Reception!!!<\/li>\n<li>Valuable Speakers\u2014NIA speakers will provide a new perspective inside and outside of your business.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>For new members, first-time attendees, or anyone wanting to get the most out of NIA\u2019s 63rd Annual Convention, April 18\u201320, 2018, in Orlando, Florida, we have some helpful advice and insider tips for you. As a first timer or new member, know that you are not alone! On average, 15% of Convention attendees are first<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-707","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.0 (Yoast SEO v24.6) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Tips and Resources for First-Time Convention Attendees - NIA&#039;s 63rd Annual Convention<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"noindex, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Tips and Resources for First-Time Convention Attendees\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"For new members, first-time attendees, or anyone wanting to get the most out of NIA\u2019s 63rd Annual Convention, April 18\u201320, 2018, in Orlando, Florida, we have some helpful advice and insider tips for you. As a first timer or new member, know that you are not alone! 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