Lyndsey McDonald Garza
San Diego is the perfect destination for the 2014 Vacation Rental Managers Association Annual Conference.
Honestly, attending industry conferences are my vacations from my office in a fabulous beach destination. I have always enjoyed my experiences of a new city. Take my word for it, planning ahead of time and making an action plan are not an option in the vacation rental industry. At least we're all used to vacation experiences. We're the professionals and by attending, we are showing we know what we are doing.
Since we are all getting ready for a business trip, take it from an expert and have an action plan, pack your flip flops, box of business cards so you dont run out, phone chargers, laptops, and your swimsuits--we're going to work, right?
This is my third conference as a member of VRMA and it has been proven that if you take time pre-conference to huddle and prepare, you'll return from the conference ready to execute and communicate as a team. What you've learned will ensure that you and in turn, your company, will get the most bang for your buck.Honestly, attending industry conferences are my vacations from my office in a fabulous beach destination. I have always enjoyed my experiences of a new city. Take my word for it, planning ahead of time and making an action plan are not an option in the vacation rental industry. At least we're all used to vacation experiences. We're the professionals and by attending, we are showing we know what we are doing.
Since we are all getting ready for a business trip, take it from an expert and have an action plan, pack your flip flops, box of business cards so you dont run out, phone chargers, laptops, and your swimsuits--we're going to work, right?
- Look for the What You Need To Know email to arrive before you leave. It contains helpful tips about the Conference. Upon arrival at the Sheraton, you can pick up the program book with all the details. There will also be a Conference app. Make sure to review the email and create an agenda. Planning ahead is key to having a successful conference.
- Stay up to date on social media, especially on the #vrma2014 hash tag on Twitter. You will be able to connect with others. It's a great way to review key takeaways, ask questions, see where people are hanging out and expand your network at the event.
- Spend time in the Vendor Showcase. Enjoy the opportunity of meeting both friends, mentors, and partners. Vendors also offer great prizes including iPads, Go Pros, TVs, gift packages and more.
- Speaking of prizes, stay for the Wednesday Keynote Speaker. At the conclusion of that session, there's a raffle and five people will win $100 cash.
- Be sure to stop at the Member Village in the Vendor Showcase (booth 416). There will be an "Ask Me" table where other VRMA volunteer managers will be standing by to answer questions about the conference and the industry. It's a great mini-mentoring opportunity. You'll also be able to get more info about VRMA membership benefits.
- Be sure to hang out at the hotel bar and at the after-hours events! That's where a lot of the fun takes place! Monday evening's main event is Permanent Vacation, the all-member band. For the Tuesday Party, feel free to dress for the beach. In the spirit of Halloween there will be for the best beach-themed costume!
Since this is my first time experiencing San Diego, it's nice see the hotel is extremely close to the airport--approximately 2 miles. There is complimentary shuttle service as well as a number of other transportation options on the VRMA website
See you in San Diego!
