The Thursday before all of the ADCES25 activity, a very important event takes place…………The CB (Community Board)/LNG (Local Networking Group)/COI (Community of Interest) Networking event. It’s an opportunity for members to mingle with other members, introduce themselves to other states, local networking groups and Communities of Interest. Why is this important - we get to connect. Connecting to others is a valuable asset because we learn from others and others learn from you. It’s important to come into the room and start introducing yourself - Don’t be shy, just say HI!
Here’s how it works - each state or community of interests will have a table. The folks at the tables can answer questions about their group, encourage others to join and let the members know why it is important to know what groups are out there and how they may help your career! Did you know we have COIs that focus on Rural Communities, Inpatient Management, Pharmacy and Plant Based Diets - these are just a few of the groups. Take a look on ADCESConnect and see what looks inviting! COIs are a great opportunity to see what others are doing, share ideas and procedures and to ask tough questions.
For the members who will be at a table, it’s important to be out there and talk to other members. It’s fun to have something at your table that “Shouts” your state or COI - Buckeyes from OH, Bourbon Balls from Kentucky - something memorable, something fun!! Giveaways help people to introduce themselves, ask about your state or COI and get to know someone new! Also, get out from behind the table and be the one who says HI first! Encourage other members to come to your table and say Hello! Wear Tee Shirts that say “Ask me about XXXXX! Start the conversation!! This is also a good time to meet members in your state. You can advertise your state conference or other meetings you sponsor. Have a sign up sheet to volunteer, get involved and get acquainted with what LNG they belong to. Have a handout about each LNG, who are the coordinators with emails/phone and their upcoming program schedules. Help members feel welcome with a Hello and we are here for you. For those hosting a table - a few tips - mail your tablecloth and signs just incase your luggage gets stuck in Timbuktu!! Be Ready, Be Set, Shine!
It can be intimidating to walk into a large, crowded room. Think of it this way - all of these people are here for the same reason. We want to help our patients, community or business be the best they can be with anything related to diabetes. You are walking into a family, not a room of strangers. Embrace the chance to connect with so many amazing people! See you there, and say HI when you stop by the OHIO CB table!
Ann Hornsby, MEd, RD, LD, CDCES, CLC
ADCESOH