RETA Breeze July-Aug 2024

Prepare for Networking If you’re a shy person, the thought of networking may be frightening. However, networking is one of the most important things you can do as a professional. Wheth er 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 concisely. A first impression really does 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. Download any Apps, Maps or Schedules RETA 2024 not only has the schedule online but will also offer a conference app with a schedule you can access before attending and onsite during Conference. Make sure to download it in advance so you can plan your day in a more efficient way and become familiarized with the program. Pack and Plan for the Day As a RETA 2024 full-conference attendee, 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

• 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 appropri ately 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, catching an Uber? Or will you be staying onsite at the Gaylord Texan Resort? 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 2024 will provide you with the confidence needed to navigate the venue and schedule like a pro!

BEWARE OF HOTEL POACHERS The Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center is the ONLY contracted hotel for the 2024 RETA Room poaching is a practice carried out by third-party companies that act as travel agencies. These poachers may inform you that the hotel room block is sold out or offer a discounted rate. They may even state they represent RETA or use the RETA Logo solicitations to the 2024 RETA National Conference from convention housing bureaus offering reduced hotel rates. These housing companies are known as Hotel Poachers or Hotel Pirates. They are NOT affiliated with the 2024 RETA National Conference or the Gaylord Resort & Convention Center. How hotel poachers book rooms and attempt to get your money: Most poaching agencies do not have a contract with any hotels for room blocks they will contact a housing wholesaler, such as Expedia, Priceline, etc. to see if rooms are available that they can mark up to resell to unsus pecting guests. Typically, want your money upfront, paid in full. DON’T BE MISLED! **There are NO 3rd party housing companies authorized to represent RETA or the Gaylord Resort & Convention Center. National Conference offering a discounted nightly group rate. in their emails. This is not true. We have been made aware of

• Charger for your laptop or tablet • Bottle of water and some snacks

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