Does the idea of learning new skills make you feel a little uncomfortable? You’re not alone. In fact, a 2015 study from Chapman University found that new technology is the No. 2 fear for many Americans — just behind natural disasters. “People tend to express the highest level of fear for things they’re dependent on but that they don’t have any control over, and that’s almost a perfect definition of technology,” said Christopher Bader, a professor of sociology at Chapman and one of the co-authors of the study.” https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2015/10/americans-are-more-afraid-of-robots-than-death/410929/
Fortunately for florists in the Pacific Northwest and surrounding regions, the Society of American Florists’ 1-Day Profit Blast is coming to Portland, Oregon, this Sunday, Oct. 7, and bringing with it a host of experts who will talk about how to make the best use of new tech in the industry and how to maximize profitability and service with old-fashioned people power.
Sponsored by Frank Adams Wholesale Florist, SAF’s 1-Day Profit Blast is a short course in improving retail florists’ day-to-day operations, filled with practical tips that participants can start implementing as soon as Monday morning.
Lugene Olson of Hummingbird Floral & Gifts in Shoreview, Minnesota participated in the last SAF 1-Day Profit Blast in July in Green Bay.
“It was wonderful to spend time with other shop owners and designers and hear that we are all facing the same struggles day to day — and yet we all love it,” she said. “I came away with at least three solid ideas to improve my shop’s profitability.”
Mary Smalley, one of several Fred Meyers floral team members participating in the Portland event, said she’s looking forward to her first Profit Blast this weekend.
“The opportunity to get together and meet other professionals in the business is great,” Smalley said. “I’m looking forward to the demonstrations and new ideas to share with my clients.”
This weekend’s event features in-demand floral industry speakers including Floral Management contributing writer Tim Huckabee of Floral Strategies Inc. and his popular interactive session, “Smart Selling“; social media expert Crystal Valkaitis of the Social Edge who will talk about making better connections in “What’s Up (and Coming) with Social Media“; Derrick Myers, CPA, CFP , of Floral Underground who will talk profits in “Treasure Hunt: Finding Your Hidden Profits“; and Floral Management columnist and resident CPA Derek C. Woodruff, AIFD, CFD, CF, PFCI, who will be on-site to dish about design and bottom line considerations during “M3: Money Making Mechanics,” sponsored by Syndicate Sales.
In addition to the exciting speakers, there will be a Supplier Showcase with some of the industry most exciting new products, complimentary breakfast and lunch, and many chances to mix, mingle and network with attendees and businesses.
It’s not too late to register for the 1-Day Profit Blast in Portland. Read more about the presenters and register online for just $199 for members or $249 for non-members. And you can save when you sign up coworkers as well, with $99 tickets for additional registrants from the same company.
Anne Holub is a contributing writer for the Society of American Florists.
