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It’s the most wonderful time of year for PioneerRx. Catalyst Connect 2024 is rapidly approaching, where pharmacists and other healthcare professionals come together to learn, network, and innovate.
Whether you’re a seasoned vet of the tradeshow floor or new to the event, we’ve got you covered. Going to a trade show is a massive undertaking, so make sure you’ve crossed your Ts and dotted your Is. If you need some pointers or a refresher course, look no further.
Welcome to the Catalyst Connect Survival Guide.
As a pharmacist, you know how essential it is to have a plan. As they say, conquer the day so the day doesn’t conquer you. Here are some tips to prepare for Catalyst Connect.
First things first: check that you’re successfully registered for Catalyst Connect. If you’re going in a group, ensure the whole group is correctly registered, i.e. make sure John Smith is not going as Jane Doe.
Next, if you’re flying to Catalyst Connect (Nashville for this year’s event), check your flight tickets are still good to go.
If you’re driving, make sure your route is time-efficient. That means looking at traffic patterns and knowing when a two-hour drive can turn into five. Simply put, go with time and you’ll have a good time.
Catalyst Connect typically happens during the summer. However, this year’s event is from May 16-19, which usually averages out to a low of 59°F and high up to 77°F in Nashville.
While the outdoors can be nice and breezy, the Gaylord Opryland might feel like a tundra by comparison. Bring a light jacket so you don’t become an ice cube.
Few things come in clutch as a reusable water bottle. They can also add to your outfit if you have a stylish one. Master both form and function (and hydration) by bringing a reusable water bottle.
You’re creating a plan of action, so it’d help to know where you’re going. First, download the Catalyst Connect Attendee app. It has all the information you need about the event’s classes and exhibitors.
If you’re in a group, you can decide who goes to what class so you can all get the full Catalyst Connect experience.
The PioneerRx Catalyst Connect app is a superb resource for any question about any of the event’s classes or exhibitors. Download the app to get instant access to slide decks for any class you’re going to.
The app also lets you learn more about this year’s speakers and exhibitors, which can make the networking process a little less daunting.
Then download the Gaylord Hotels: Resort app. The Nashville Gaylord is a massive piece of property and the app gives you literal step-by-step directions to your room, exhibitor hall, or restaurant of choice.
Both apps help make your Catalyst Connect experience as smooth as possible. Whether you’re running to the next class or grabbing a bite to eat, these apps are absolute must-haves.
Now you’re here. Now that you have your plan of action and know the class schedule like the back of your hand, it’s time to step foot into the exhibitor hall. Note: make sure to bring a laptop if you're attending the Care Goals workshop
Registration will be at the Gaylord’s Presidential Lobby (use the Gaylord app to know where it is). Pick up your badges and workbook. You’ve got a big day (days, actually) ahead of you.
As mentioned earlier, being a Catalyst Connect attendee gives you privileged access to vital resources that can further your business’s success. All classes and speakers can make you look at pharmacy work, patient care, and business in a new and enlightening way. You’re at Catalyst Connect to be a sponge, so absorb all that information and write it down.
The learning doesn’t stop when the classes end. You and other Catalyst Connect attendees are some of the brightest minds in the industry, so why not bounce ideas off each other?
Networking is an essential part of your pharmacy’s success. Just hearing another pharmacist talking about their work can reignite something in you — a new idea or way of doing certain tasks.
It takes a village to provide excellent patient care. And it can take as much to find that next great idea.
Time flies by when you’re having fun, so make the most of it. Catalyst Connect has all kinds of exhibitors and booths that can elevate your business. It’s also worth it to learn different perspectives on familiar concepts.
