Phoenix Water Damage Services owner, Robert, was able to attend the Restoration Industry Association’s International Restoration Convention + Industry Expo here in Phoenix, AZ! This convention was developed by contractors for contractors. It is for those in the restoration industry and it’s continuing it’s long standing tradition of addressing needs, issues and interests to the practicing professional restorer. This convention gave us valuable insight, new networking connections, and a fresh outlook that we can apply to our work in the industry. It included education sessions, an opening reception, networking events, and the awards banquet and celebration. The convention was held at the Phoenix Convention Center across the street from the Hyatt Regency.
On the first day here was a first-time attendee and new member reception that we participated in as well as the opening reception and pinning ceremony. The second day we attended the opening remarks and then listened to the general session with Xactware’s Mike Fulton and Greg Payne. Xactware creates accurate estimates for restoration jobs of every kind. We also got to listen to key note speaker, Dr. Rick Rigsby. Dr. Rigsby is President and CEO of Rick Rigsby Communications. He shared the wisdom of past generations which inspired, motivated and empowered us to make an impact rather than an impression. Finishing out the day was breakout sessions about Expanding Locations, Using Xactimate, Building an Effective Sales Plan, The Contents Quandry and Everyday Restorers and last the awards banquet and celebration.
The second day there was two key note speakers. First, was Eric Chester. Eric is the leading voice in attracting, managing, motivating, and retaining the emerging workforce. His presentation explained how to Create a Pipeline, Increase Application Flow, On Board New Employees and the 7 Pillars of an On Fire Workplace Culture. The second speaker was Mike Michalowicz. Mike is running his third million dollar venture, is an author and former columnist. His takeaways were How to Implement Profit First, How Bank Balance Accounting Works and How Profit First works with our existing habits. The day finished with the RIA annual business meeting, breakout sessions and the final conclusion.
We are already saving the date for next years convention that is going to be held in New Orleans, Louisiana.