Rarely does one have the opportunity to take advantage of every association benefit. But, your Mid-West Spring Technical Meeting, where you go to learn and do business, has it all! This meeting provides a wealth of information, knowledge and understanding to those who work in the dental laboratory profession. This annual continuing education meeting gives the large and small, the active and not-so-active the chance to get away from the laboratory, come together as one, grasp a perspective of the industry, and take what you've learned back to your company's drawing board. But before you pack your bags, consider how you can get the most "bang for your buck" at the meeting. Here are some tips:

You can avoid long waits in on-site registration lines by sending your registration by mail or fax. 
Download the full MWSTM program.

Don't wait until you get there. Skim the schedule of events ahead of time so you can strategically map out which events and sessions you'd like to attend.

Don't forget you're coming here to gather information so you can apply it at work. If you don't understand or find the clinician's explanation incomplete, ask questions! Bring writing materials to jot down interesting information.

The exhibit hall at the meeting is the perfect place to personally evaluate and compare equipment and supplies of interest to you. Make a list beforehand of what products you want to see and/or compare. Also, keep a sharp eye for special prices on purchases or look for meeting specials.

The manufacturers and their reps are well-versed in their products' capabilities or uses. Experts are on hand to present a lecture, hands-on course, or hands-on demonstration and explain their company's products and answer questions that might arise.

Social activities are a part of almost every meeting. Use these opportunities to your advantage- make new contacts or renew old ones! People are much more open to conversation in a relaxed setting than in a lecture or business luncheon.

Opportunities for networking abound at this meeting, and this alone is worth the price of registration. This annual meeting is where "birds-of-an-industry" flock together. Arrange to meet for coffee, lunch, dinner, or during breaks. Golf with someone you'd like to exchange ideas, ask questions, or maybe do business with. Then, you'll be able to prepare ahead of time for the meeting, rather than using the old "hit or miss" strategy once you get there.

Because of the numerous educational sessions occurring simultaneously, ask a co-worker, colleague or association staff member for the handouts distributed at any session you were unable to attend. Sometimes the handouts are substantive summaries of the presentations - and it's better than nothing at all. Even if something isn't relevant to you, it may be to someone in your lab.

Attending educational seminars gives you the edge, both intellectually and professionally. It's a great place for networking and you'll want to have business cards ready for those people with whom you'd like to keep in touch.

Throughout the meeting, jot down ideas you can implement immediately when you return to the lab. Share the ideas you've gleaned and notes with your boss and co-workers. Think about what you'll do next to reinforce what you've learned.

Keep in touch with those you've met during the meeting. They are valuable resources for getting a second opinion or advice from when implementing new programs, publications, or marketing plans.

Contact the MWSTM office if you're interested in serving as a speaker. Diverse perspectives from a variety of experts, like you, provide more enlightenment for attendees.