HFTP Annual Convention — Invest in Yourself

Successful people are always looking for opportunities to help others.

Unsuccessful people are always asking, “what’s in it for me?”

The inspirational author Dr. Stephen Covey once said, “strength lies in differences, not in similarities.” This quote encapsulates a large part of the HFTP Annual Convention. If you have ever attended, then you understand the quote. If you haven’t, you owe yourself the opportunity to participate and come to learn from the insight of other long-serving HFTP members.

HFTP is an association that frequently, generously and effectively provides education dedicated to the furthering of the hospitality industry. Having been a part of the industry for over 20 years, means I have a lot of information in my head that could no doubt help others with their hospitality challenges and hiccups. In my experience as an active member of HFTP for more than 10 years, I have found a large part of the membership falls into the “successful people” category as stated above.

So here we are, over 500 wonderful hospitality driven people all networking in the same hotel, in the same meetings, in the same education sessions with all of our differences… sharing our knowledge to help others. If you think about it, how much more “priceless” can you get?

Some would say: “Annual Convention is always during budget season.”

And your point is? We’re all here. Learning, networking, checking e-mail at night and trying to address challenges from our hotel rooms. What if you’re in your room and you have a budget question that you’ve never come across? In that same hotel, odds are, someone has your answer. Perhaps you are stressed about 11th edition USALI? Don’t fret, there are classes on that too.

Some would say: “My company won’t pay for Annual Convention.”

My old company did, but my new company doesn’t. So I applied to be the Official Guest Blogger, was selected and got a free registration. I asked my friend if I could be her roommate (free room), and used airline miles to get my ticket (Hello N’awlins)! It’s possible, if you make it possible.

Some would say: “There’s too many cliques. I don’t fit in.”

Nope. You won’t if you don’t put yourself out there and begin to network. It only takes one person to introduce you to another and before you know it the HFTP membership as a whole has turned into a family. If you’re on the fence about going and you’re afraid of the crowds, then seek me out. I’ll introduce you and get you started on your “networking journey.”

Some would say: “There are not enough ‘upper level’ classes.”

Perfect! We need you as a speaker, check your ego at the door and submit a presentation idea. Everyone has knowledge, everyone has the capability to share their experience with others. And if you’re one of those that struggle with public speaking, fear not, we offer classes on that too.

Don’t short change yourself with excuses. Invest in yourself.

Stoke the Fire!

Jessica Vint, CHAE, is a senior accountant for Kinseth Hospitality based in Liberty, Iowa. Jessica has been an active member of HFTP since 2004 and has served as a director on the HFTP Global Board.

Please note: The content published in this section was provided by the Guest Blogger and not of HFTP, nor any person or organization affiliated or doing business with HFTP.