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CCarr
Canada
1200 Posts |
 Posted - 12/05/2002 : 11:33:45
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I've taken the liberty of bringing this issue also into the general forum. I have watched the polls evolve for the past 2 weeks, then noticed Russ's bulletin regarding the prep work he is doing.
I haven't responded to the polls (yet), as I am not able to form an opinion or make a decision yet. I did attend the last event in Biloxi, a long ways away from where I call home.
But, only 76 people have an opinion whether they would attend, and only 57 of those are affirmative about their opinion to attend. Either number seems like an awful small piece of the CADO pie of readers, "members", or followers.
I have no idea what is going on behind the scenes in planning this event or possible event; but are the numbers not prohibitive for a "convention"?
Why are the numbers so low, both with those that gave an opinion and the only 57 who were affirnative?
What is the theme, what is the agenda, what are the workshops / sessions planned?
I've attended the Windnetwork convention, yes it is bigger, yes it has been a regular event for a number of years, yes it is likely partially funded through membership, and has other revenue streams likely not available to CADO; however, the convention brochure / information package sells itself. With that, people can clearly and quickly decide whether it is something they would like to or should attend; then it is only subject to their cost considerations and available time.
I'm just trying to be constructive with this gentle critique. There seems to be something missing in the message or carrot, to create much sufficient interest for either yes or no sides.
I do recognize that it is very difficult to arrange, commit and "book" agendas and the people to implement / present them, without having a fair idea of the minimum participation expected.
Maybe these comments will generate some commentary on the issue that could be of value. |
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JimF
USA
1014 Posts |
Posted - 12/05/2002 : 12:27:22
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Clayton, just to venture a guess, the past two years have been real slow for most cat adjusters and many are having a hard time making ends meet.
While a lot of cat adjusters would like to attend, I'm sure, it simply is a matter of many adjusters not having the extra disposable income to pay the costs of attending a convention, or even barely keep their heads above water right now.
Just a guess but one based on conversations with numerous cat adjusters from around the country. |
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CCarr
Canada
1200 Posts |
Posted - 12/05/2002 : 12:57:11
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Well, if that is "the" reason, if that is all it is, why didn't say 472 people respond to the "interest poll", with 58 affirmatives and the balance as declines?
We seem to flock to certain forums, and create high "readership" numbers and in some cases high participation numbers in forums, with every conceivable "opinion". Why are people not responding to a very basic yes or no poll?
Again, if Jim's thoughts are a reflection of why there is only 50 some affirmatives, that makes sense. But, if that reason is valid, why haven't those thoughts transferred themselves to the poll?
I think, those suggesting / planning this possible event, would be more enlightened if those that come within Jim's view expressed that in the poll. |
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Linda
USA
127 Posts |
Posted - 12/05/2002 : 14:01:26
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I will attempt to shed a little light on some of this. From past experience we have learned and we have made mistakes but hopefully those will not be repeated. CADO's first convention was only partially funded by the registrations fees (less for members), vendor fees and the balance from private sources.
To make all the numbers work in order to not end up in the red, it is necessary to "get a feel" for the number of attendees who may be coming. Vendors want this information to make their decisions on whether to participate or not. Hotels want this information so that facility fees-both space and equipment rentals can be calculated as near as possible. The convention facilities also base the meeting room expense on the number of "sold" hotel rooms. Can you get them cheaper on a "weekend special"--sometimes but in the end it raises the cost of the facilities for everyone.
When we had the last one, "Mold Teams" were not yet on the horizon and remediation meant fires, floods and hurricanes. Adjusting took on an entire different complexion to many adjusters. Some of those adjusters came prepared with a great deal of knowledge and experience and some with not so much. Being IICRC certified (www.IICRC.org)would have made a lot of tasks easier and faster. Most of us also didn't have a clue how many time a cubic foot of air needed to be "scrubbed" in order to pass a
CIH clearance. That is just one example.
There are many more. In order to procure the certification classes, again, it is necessary to "get a feel" for the numbers which brings us back full circle to the space and equipment and $$ necessary to proceed.
I can personally tell you that I probably would not have been employed for the past year and a half had it not been for contacts I made at the last convention. Networking was at an all time high and for many of us also profitable. Some life-long friendships were also made. Adjusters helping other adjusters.....
We are independents and must spend money to make money. I realize the burden it places on many but it eases the pain down the road with more deployments.
We must continue to learn and improve our skills, technology and work product in order to survive in the catastrophe arena.
The choice is yours. I'll be there if I have to rent Santa's sleigh. (He won't be using it then!)
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CCarr
Canada
1200 Posts |
Posted - 12/05/2002 : 14:58:46
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Nicely said Linda, in a common sense way with some of the business planning aspects of the process added in.
It is as simple as the choice is "ours", and the polling booth is just a few clicks away; surely there are more than 57 people who see the benefits of this - step up and let your mouse voice your opinion. |
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Russ
USA
75 Posts |
Posted - 12/05/2002 : 17:14:39
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Our last Convention's motto was "Learn to Earn"! My goal this time out is too have most of the Certifications we need at the Convention. NFIP,TWIA,FWUA(Citizens),American Family,Farmers,Tower Hill,USAA.I hope to have classes on MSB/(DDS), Xcatimate, Simsol, Power Claim. Mold Adjusting and Remediation.I have gotten good feedback from Vendors: Leica has a new "Disto" out, Pilot, S.C.S, Colonial Claims, RJMW,INDIO Software, United Claims Service, to name a few. I encourage any interested parties to contact me. I spent Thanksgiving in Biloxi and went through the Beau Rivage. Its top shelf.
Have a great day!!
My email is rdoe@aol.com / Cell (727)510-5366 |
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katadj
USA
315 Posts |
Posted - 12/05/2002 : 23:35:08
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The task of assembling an affair such as is proposed is not a simple "Yea or Nay". Linda has briefly touched on some of the items, Russ has touched on others.
The initial convention "Learn to Earn" was assembled in a few weeks by a few people. The task again falls on the backs of those that are truly concerned about the future of this industry, and Im sure there are many more that can offer their assistance if they opted to do so.
The people that Russ has contacted have been most responsive. Each of those involved have made similar contacts with IA Vendors, equipment suppliers, hotels, and many other business that we as adjusters support. We are asking them, at this point , to support us. How many room nights do we as adjusters pay for, how many computers, software, printers, office supplies, and other necessary items do we pay for?
FIRST: As Linda stated, we need a head count to guarantee the hotel the room nights. We have booked 450 room nights for openers. We need a head count for the breakout rooms for the individual classes we intend to offer. We have to advise the sources for accredition of the attendance, such as NFIP, FWUA/CPIC, Texas Wind, to mention some that have been contacted. We wish to have as many CE credits as possible offered.
SECOND: We have to have sponsors to support the breakfasts, breaks,lunches, cocktail party and possibly a dinner. Surely the cost of attending cannot include these items. The first go around cost certain INDIVIDUALS a huge sum.
THIRD: We must have a minimum of 50 vendor booths in the exhibit hall, and to attract them we need a head count. There is no easier, better or efficient way for the vendors to exhibit their wares to the end user that at a function that is attended by those users. First time we had about 20, not bad , but we will do better.
FORTH: Having the proper speakers and formats are all important. We had, several notables at the first one and we will again have very interesting, outgoing and timely topics that will be discussed. The breakout rooms will also deal with many of the daily concerns that we all have. The topics may vary as the individuals , who for the most part DONATE their time and talent to share with others what they know. It may be a digital camera workshop, a hail seminar, an electronic file transfer seminar, the use of WI-FI technology, whatever, it will be educational.
There may be a day, when we have a year or so to do this, and have the capacity to lay it all out and advertize in advance of the function. however, this again is being done, flying by the seat of our pants.
If a call came out to 500 adjusters that there was 50 files waiting for them in Biloxi on 3/2/02 would they show up? You bet your bippie they would. Even if they did not "KNOW BEFORE YOU GO".
In this case CADO wishes to invite 500 attendees to a party, (After all it is Mardi Gras),where you will interface, network, learn, meet new and old friends and support the only organization on earth that has your best interests at heart.
In this case you do "KNOW BEFORE YOU GO" that you will get everything you expect and more. We are family and should treat each other as such, lets call it a family reunion, if that moves anyone.
Use whatever reasoning you have to to make this a sucess, we surely will.
Thanks for reading and hope to see you in Biloxi. |
Edited by - katadj on 12/05/2002 23:55:00 |
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Cecelia
USA
25 Posts |
Posted - 12/06/2002 : 07:15:46
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I gather from the last post that Biloxi has been chosen as the site. Is this correct? I know the Beau Rivage hotel, that Russ refers to, is beautiful. It was built by the same entity that built the Mirage in Vegas. Is the date 3/2? Maybe a BIT more adversiting here on the site would help; an ongoing thread such as this would be a big help and very informative.
I offered my services to Linda (and will do so to Russ also) to help. I've never oganized anything, but I can do legwork. Just tell me what needs to be done and who to call and I will do it.
And I'll see everyone in Biloxi!!! |
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CCarr
Canada
1200 Posts |
Posted - 12/06/2002 : 12:32:48
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Ladies and gentlemen of the CADO Starship Biloxi Command - Linda, Russ, Dave and others of your crew; you do not have to rationalize or sell to this crowd the effort and dedication you are committing to this project.
Dave, your 2nd paragraph cuts to the quik and certainly bruises; if not drawing a drop of blood.
Prior to yesterday, we have had 3 polls available for about 2 weeks, to make our expression of interest;
(a) IF, there was a convention, would we attend?
(b) IF, there was "a,b,c" classes, would that influence our decision to attend?
(c) how much do we think is the right cost?
It was only a few days ago that Russ provided any sign of activity, with his bulletin regarding his efforts.
All to that point is little communication of what is going on and at what status it is at.
I have no idea what needs to be done, or how I could contribute - but now with the communication on this thread since yesterday - I can offer assistance, and I do opt to do so.
At last look, 60 people now have clicked affirmatively to the poll that they would attend. That is a big and long galaxy away from the 500 number I see in Dave's comments.
Don't insulate yourselves or portray yourselves as martyrs, to your worthy cause and efforts; the minor unintended suggestion of which I interpret from Dave's 2nd last sentence.
I see from the CADO stats that there are now 2089 "members".
Issue #1 - why have only 4% of the membership bothered to respond to the "IF" poll on attending?
Is it too vague and generic? We now know quite a bit more than we did on 11/19 when the poll was established. Can some depth and parameters be created for the basic question now?
Correct any erors in this, or add to it, I interpret from what I have now read that - there will be a CADO convention in Biloxi, the first week of March, with a good depth of certification opportunities, with a good and practical range of exhibitors, and the convention registration cost will be around $250.
Maybe it is time to formulate an infomercial of that nature, based on the best available data at this time - and flog it to the masses?
Maybe a direct email campaign is needed to provoke and illicit interest?
Another issue that I think silently sits under a lot of people who have not responded, is the "old boys & girls club" perception, perhaps lingering in the thoughts of many of those who have only been in the profession associated with CADO ideals for a year or two. I see the benefits of the CADO event being of great value to the "junior" participants of our niche. I feel there has to be some specific message to them to draw their interest; they are the ones with the most to gain from an event like this. We have to make them want to come and be comfortable that they are equals at this event and that they can look to any old saltshaker as a mentor to help them on their way to success.
To me, with regards to the critical issue of getting your numbers way past 60, and anywhere close to 1/2 of the 500 number mentioned; is the message must be communicated louder, clearer and more community embracive than it has been prior to yesterday.
I do not doubt that your efforts will result in good workshops and a good variety of useful exhibitors; the remaining components of a convention result from what each person makes of the experience.
So, if you think there is something I can do to help, from the snowy land way up under; send me an email. |
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olderthendirt
USA
370 Posts |
Posted - 12/06/2002 : 13:51:38
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| I suspect many of us simply missed the poll! |
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Newt
USA
657 Posts |
Posted - 12/06/2002 : 18:19:26
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I am waiting for the word, of what to expect, so far it sounds good to me and I plan on attending. I like the idea of the training sessions, and I think I speak for lots of folks. We should take this serious and get smart.
I am looking forward to meeting lots of people there. I have nothing
against nectar of the Gods, and it doesn't bother me that others partake, I very seldom drink, yet I enjoy the company of people that do. They have such a good time and when they get silly I don't feel I have such a handicap. Somewhere along the way I lost my taste except with Italian food. With Mexican I got to have lots of water, cause I like that five alarm sauce. We need a tentative schedule, then ask how many people want to attend. The where, when, what and how much will either be a yea or nay for most. I for one do appreciate the effort and don't know what I could do to help but I am willing.
I have been to the Beau Rivage in Biloxi also and it is nice. The food is good , however if you eat at one of the Casinos, you may have to get one of those wide load signs for your rear and one of those beepers if you want to back up, I think OSHA requires it.
Oh by the way the RV parking area is in the rear and right next to the water. All paved.
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Newt
USA
657 Posts |
Posted - 12/06/2002 : 18:47:50
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On 8 Dec Admin is opening up for a chat session, good time to bring your questions to the table. I am sure they need your feedback and questions. Sunday Dec. 8 we may have a better picture of who will attend, if we get enough people checking in it would help those putting this thing together, everyones input is needed asap. (I WANT TO GO BAD)
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CCarr
Canada
1200 Posts |
Posted - 12/06/2002 : 23:58:02
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I see we are now up to 458 people who have opened the "Sticky Poll: CADO convention2003", and have had a whopping almost 10% jump in those who have clicked and responded.
Quite interesting, less than 20% of those that opened and read the poll, had any interest to give some indication of their thoughts.
I don't want to get in the way of Jim's interesting history / economics quiz in another forum, but that and the above response in readers and pollers made me wonder about how our group is made up in terms of our backgrounds in this industry. I don't like labels, but they are necessary for this thought process, and are not meant in any way to be disrespectful of anyone.
Of those who have posted on CADO in the last 6 months, we know there is a core of veteran / seasoned stormtroppers. I'm sure there is another element of that core and of the other groups that are good followers of CADO but have not posted. Of our soon to be 2100 members, what percentage would this core comprise? I'll guess - and that is all it is - that it may only be about a 100 or so people, or 5%.
Next group, have done cat work, probably at it less than 5 years, or a combination of day to day claims and cat work for less than 10 years. Would that be 400 or so people, or about 20%?
Next group, have been out on 2 or 3 storm call deployments, probably at it less than 3 or 4 years, or a combination of day to day claims and cat work for less than 5 years. Would that be 600 or so people, or about 30%?
Next group, have been out on 1 or 2 storm call deployments, probably at it less than 2 or 3 years, or a combination of day to day claims and cat work of less than 3 years. Would that be about 400 people or so, or about 20%?
Next group, have not been deployed to a storm, but want to be, but have 2 or 3 certifications, and if they have any day to day claims experience it is less than 1 year. Would that be about 400 people or so, or about 20%?
Next group, have not been deployed to a storm, but would like the opportunity, but do not have any certifications yet, and do not have any other claims experience, they may, but not necessarily, just be members for their viewing pleasure of CADO forums. Would that be about 100 people or so, or about 5%?
If I am anywhere close, and the groupings were only done to illustrate this point, 75% of our group, if not at least a solid 50%; depend on weather related perils to earn an income with junior level experience. That is not a put down, just a fact, I was there once and so was everyone else in the first two or three groups I created.
That statement above, is a big reason why I am surprised by the activity in the "poll" forum concerning the convention.
I've been to quite a few insurance, insurance claims type conventions over the years. There are two critical components to your convention experience - learning and networking.
Learning never stops, I absorb methods, ideas, procedures and skills - today, as much as I did 20 or 30 years ago. Learning must always be pursued, it is the fundamental way in which we advance our knowledge. The CADO convention provides this medium to you, all in one basket over a few days.
However, the CADO convention provides the 75% to 50% I speculated in groups, with an invaluable opportunity to network with your full cycle of industry contacts. Networking is critical to your professional growth. It provides you with a great opportunity to market yourself to the vendors and carriers at the convention. It is the time for your prospective clients to put an image with the resume. It is the time for you to stand up and show you care about what you do. It is a time to sell yourself. Nothing but good things can come from it. All types of business and industry, large and small, depend on networking to grow their companies and promote their products. Exhibitors invest time and money to be at the CADO convention so they can network with you. You as an independent contractor have to network, beyond sending resume with certificates, to grow and promote yourself; until you are an established commodity.
Please, those of you looking for a long time career as an independent contractor in insurance claims and not just necessarily cat storm work, give serious consideration to the many benefits of attending this CADO convention. It is an investment in your future. |
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katadj
USA
315 Posts |
Posted - 12/07/2002 : 00:13:53
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Clayton, You have said it all, and with much more clarity than I surely could muster.
"Either Lead, Follow, or get the Heck out of the way" is a logo that many have used.
In our trade, WE must Lead, the others WILL follow, and they that choose not to play are out of our way.
Thanks ALL, for the support of this venture, and soon there will be a format established, speakers and subjects announced and confirmation of the proposed seminars. |
Edited by - katadj on 12/07/2002 00:15:21 |
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Craft
USA
6 Posts |
Posted - 12/07/2002 : 11:36:11
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Being fairly new to this industry,(almost 2 years) I agree with what has been said to this point. There is no substitute for networking and getting to know your fellow adjusters and vendors. Having been a home builder for many years before my leap into this industry I found conventions, siminars and networking an invaluable tool to further my carrer and knowledge ot that industry. I believe the same is true for this and any other endeavor you take in life. As for as the convention, count me in. I will be there with bells and whistle's and ready to go. So everyone get on board and lets make this a successful convention.
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Roger Craft |
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katadj
USA
315 Posts |
Posted - 12/07/2002 : 14:28:17
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In light of the recent responses, please take into consideration the following, IF you are planing to attend CADO'03.
This can be applicable to the seasoned participants, as well as, and more importantly to, the newer participants.
1) Prepare an up to date resume, including your Photograph, your vehicle photo and description, your work history, certifications, and earned credits. These can be distributed to the IA Vendors, others that may be seeking assistance on an assignment, and any interested party. (Make at least 100 copies) This way, your factual presentation is linked with your appearance and personality. Remember always "People buy with their eyes" so dress for the occasion. NO Tux's , or shorts as the ones you speak to want to know how you will present yourself to their clients.
2) Be sure to include all of your talents, your tools and equipment, and your capacity to use it. Include copies of your Licenses,Insurance Dec pages, E&O, Automobile, GL and whatever else you have, or mention that you do not have them or they are not required in your locale. The more information you supply the better chance you have of being viewed as a competent, knowledgeable individual.
3) NETWORK / NETWORK / NETWORK which part of this ONE word do you not understand? This is the first, last and best way to present yourself.
4) Attend every possible seminar, talk, workshop that you possibly can. Bring a notebook and write it all down. Yes, I realize that you have a photographic memory, but we all, on occasion, run out of film.
5) Talk to as many seasoned people that you can, without becoming a burden to them. Try and get an invitation to "ride along" on a gig for a few days. You will learn more in those few days than several weeks in a classroom. (Do not expect to be paid for a free education)
6) There is no better place to learn than from the peer group that has been in every situation you could imagine. Listen, Listen, Listen, as I know of no one that ever learned anything with their mouth open.
7) HAVE YOU BUSINESS CARD AVAILABLE FOR ANYONE THAT REQUESTS IT, AND COLLECT AS MANY AS YOU CAN CARRY.
Seize upon this occasion as a once in a lifetime chance to meet, greet and interface with many of your peers, the CADO posters that we read , and seldom see, the old friends we worked with years ago, and the opportunity to meet new friends in our widely spread out family.
Any and all additional suggestions are requested and welcomed.
Be There or Be Square...............Age is showing again.
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Edited by - katadj on 12/07/2002 14:38:39 |
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Suggested / planned CADO convention 2003
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