For an updated take on what you need to know about UOR, read Amanda Hill's 2023 advice on RDHmag.com.
RDH Under One Roof is almost here! Two years ago I was a rookie and had no idea what to expect. I wanted to share some lessons I learned then that I’ll be sure to keep in mind this time around.
Before the conference even begins, my first recommendation is to spend some time on the website. Take a long look at the schedule. There are many free events, but you are often required to preregister. Don’t miss out on any cool networking opportunities!
Next, be sure to download the official RDH Under One Roof mobile app. It will give you on-the-go access to the conference schedule and the course offerings. Take the time to “favorite” what you are interested in. That way, you aren’t scrambling to remember what you wanted to attend. I would also recommend checking out the exhibitor list and making note of the exhibitors that you want to talk to. It’s a huge exhibit hall, and it is easy to forget who you wanted to see when the crowd rolls in.
Packing
As far as packing goes, think layers. The air conditioner was on full blast last year, and I expect nothing less this time around. As far as the type of attire goes, I was looking forward to dressing up, getting out of my everyday clinical uniform. There was every type of attire there. I was happy I went business casual, especially when I was talking with speakers and exhibitors. I felt more professional and confident. Another important thing to remember: Wear comfortable shoes!
You will need extra room in your suitcase on the way home. If you are flying, plan on checking a bag. It is absolutely worth it. You will want to try out these new products you learned about, and who wants to turn down the latest gadget or a full-sized bottle of mouthwash because you don’t have room for it in your carry-on?
Meals
All the long days of courses and lectures will leave you hungry. Lunch the first day was not provided. However, the next two days, lunch on the exhibit hall floor was provided. Dinner both nights ended up being the food from the happy hours. There are also restaurants if you prefer. Be sure to hydrate!
Exhibit hall
Take time to talk to the vendors in the exhibit hall. They love to answer questions and hear about your experience with their product/service. Don’t be just a free-stuff swiper! You miss out on learning more about the products and a great opportunity to network. In fact, I got my current position with DentalPost at RDH UOR, and it all happened because I stopped to talk with the team.
Network
Talk to the people around you, even if you came with a group of friends. You can learn just as much by chatting between classes as you can in the classes themselves. Don’t be afraid to talk to the speakers. They love feedback and getting to know other professionals in the industry. I emailed a few afterwards with questions, and they all responded. Bring business cards. If you don’t have ones that have your information on them, get some printed. Vistaprint is cheap and effective. They don’t have to be fancy, but you need your name, title, email, and phone number.
Most of all, be ready to have some fun! This is hands down my favorite conference of the year. Now that I’m working with DentalPost, I have been to quite a few dental shows, and the energy at this one is special. I came home with a new job, new friends and colleagues, and a ton of new information and products to share with my patients and clinical office. Stop on by the DentalPost booth and say hi! We’d love to meet you.
