Value is in the eyes of the beholder. It is not necessarily something you receive but rather something that you seek. When engaging in any opportunity, the beholder can pre-determine the value of participating and map out a course of action that maximizes the benefits.

The age of technology has allowed many of us to seek value from these opportunities from the comfort of our homes and offices, but does this medium provide the best chance to maximize outcomes? Convenience and cost savings may be the benefit, but what is lost without in-person interaction?

I have found that attending CAFÉ conferences and other gatherings, such as the National Restaurant Show in Chicago and the ACF Convention, can provide opportunities that go beyond the content of a simple presentation. People are social beings who gravitate toward building and reinforcing connections. When opportunities arise, keep the social aspect in mind.

There is something uniquely energizing about interacting with people face-to-face and engaging in dialogue, question-and-answer sessions, shared ideation, and latching on to that spontaneous adrenaline that comes naturally in a social context. In fact, many have found that presentations at a conference or workshop provide a platform for creative thinking. The breaks and receptions become the forum for forming ideas into viable concepts that set the stage for positive change.

This year’s CAFÉ Deans and Directors Retreat and Leadership Conferences are focused on Inventing the Future - changing the way we think and applying new ideas to what, why, how, and when we teach. A mindset of change can be invigorating and exciting, but it can also be scary and frustrating. It all depends on your approach. Will you be open-minded, interested and receptive or defensive, dismissive, or even antagonistic? One thing that you can’t be is in denial. Change will happen with or without your involvement – so, get on board!

How can gain the most from this year’s conference? Read on to find out!

• Be prepared: When the full agenda is presented, take time to study what is being offered. Build a set of objectives and questions to bring to the table.
• Select: When there are concurrent sessions, make sure you determine which ones might be the most beneficial to you or your school. If there are multiple people from your program in attendance, then meet beforehand and split up your attendance so you cover all the bases.
• Engage: Don’t be a quiet bystander when you’re there. Ask your questions during Q and A or afterward one-on-one with presenters. Don’t leave important questions unasked.
• Network: Take full advantage of the networking sessions, receptions, breaks, meals, etc. to meet new people. Break out of your comfort cliques and be bold. Share contacts and points of view, and get to know what other peoples’ “superpower” might be. These connections may be valuable in the future.
• Record: Take notes, but not at the expense of truly listening to each presenter. If you miss a point, ask them if they would be willing to send you a copy of their presentation.
• You don’t know what you don’t know: Use the Info Fair properly and don’t enter with preconceived ideas of what is important. Stop by each booth and discover what they have to offer you and your students.
• Treasure the information: You will receive a copy of contact information for all attendees. Create a file when you get home and make some quick notes. Certain attendees might be a great resource.
• Recap: While on the plane back home, take a few moments to write out your takeaways from the conference(s) and how they might become part of your work back at the ranch.
• Share: Schedule an opportunity early in the next academic year to make a presentation to the rest of your faculty and administration on what you learned. Use it to stimulate creative thought amongst your team.
• Teach: Ultimately, the most important benefits of attendance trickle down to your students. Find ways to integrate new ideas so students can share in the conference’s experience.

Value can be pre-determined and will have lasting benefits if you plan effectively, manage your time, and keep an open mind. The next great idea for your program or school may very well be within your grasp. Reach for it.

PLAN BETTER – TRAIN HARDER

Paul Sorgule, MS, AAC, president of Harvest America Ventures, a mobile restaurant incubator based in Saranac Lake, N.Y., is the former vice president of New England Culinary Institute and a former dean at Paul Smith’s College. Contact him at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..