RETA Breeze Jul-Aug 2025

you will receive a conference bag filled with many useful items, like a padfolio notepad and pen for taking notes. Here are other items you may consider: • Tablet or laptop; • Battery pack and charging cord for your phone; • Charger for your laptop or tablet; • Reusable water bottle and some snacks; and • Breath mints or mouth sprays can go a long way, as coffee breath can linger for hours! PLAN YOUR OUTFITS The RETA National Conference is NOT a stuffy environment. In fact, we are all family! We want you to be comfortable, but also professional. Keep in mind you’ll potentially be rubbing shoulders and shaking hands with industry leaders. Make a lasting impression by dressing appropriately in smart casual attire with layers. Comfortable shoes are always a safe and appropriate choice. RESEARCH THE VENUE BEFOREHAND If you are local, will you be driving there, or catching an Uber? Or will you be staying onsite at The Davenport Grand, Autograph Collection or Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Spokane City Center near the Spokane Convention Center? Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to arrive on time, especially if you are from out of town. The last thing you want is to show up feeling flustered and stressed because you didn't anticipate the traffic. By researching where the venue is, you’ll also be able to see what’s available at the venue and in the area. Additionally, you will have several options to suggest if someone wants to prolong a conversation over drinks or a meal. Let’s recap! Preparing yourself for RETA 2025 will provide you with the confidence needed to navigate the venue and schedule like a pro!

• Are there any specific resources, tools, or methodologies you would recommend for someone interested in this area? Are there any upcoming trends or innovations you think we should be aware of? What are some key insights you have gained from your experience in this area? Remember to listen actively and engage in conversation with the speaker or presenter. Additionally, don't hesitate to ask follow-up questions based on their responses to delve deeper into the topic. • • networking may be frightening. However, networking is one of the most important things you can do as a professional. Whether you’re there to represent your company or yourself, prepare yourself beforehand so you can network like a pro. Here are some quick tips: • Introduce yourself clearly and concise ly. First impressions really do count! Plan conversation topics ahead of time. By doing this, you will avoid awkward silences and off-topic discussions. Hype yourself up before the event. This one may sound silly, but positive self-talk has a huge impact on self confidence! Before heading out, look in the mirror and tell yourself how confident you are. The more you repeat it, the more confident you’ll feel. RETA 2025 not only has the schedule online, but will also offer a conference app with a schedule you can access before attending and onsite during the Conference. Make sure to download it in advance so you can plan your day more efficiently and become familiar with the program. • • DOWNLOAD ANY APPS, MAPS, OR SCHEDULES PREPARE FOR NETWORKING If you’re a shy person, the thought of

Spokane Convention Center

ing opportunities that align with your objectives. You can find the RETA 2025 National Conference Schedule at https://reta.com/ page/2025-conference-schedule RESEARCH SPEAKERS AND TOPICS Familiarize yourself with the speakers and their expertise. Prioritize attending sessions led by experts in your field, or on topics of particular interest to you. Write down questions you want to ask the speakers. Here are example questions you might want to ask: • How do you see this field/industry evolving in the future?

PACK AND PLAN FOR THE DAY As a RETA 2025 full-conference attendee,

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