How can you use trade shows to jumpstart your career in hospitality management?

3 Network strategically

Trade shows are a great opportunity to meet and connect with people who share your passion and vision for hospitality. However, you should not try to network with everyone you see. Instead, you should network strategically and focus on quality over quantity. You should identify and target the people who can help you achieve your career goals, such as recruiters, hiring managers, industry leaders, influencers, or mentors. You should also research and prepare some questions or topics to engage them in a meaningful conversation. You should also follow up with them after the trade show by sending a thank-you note, a resume, a portfolio, or a proposal, depending on the situation.

4 Showcase your skills

Trade shows are not only a place to learn and network, but also a place to showcase your skills and talents. You can do this by participating in competitions, workshops, presentations, or demonstrations that are relevant to your field and level of expertise. For example, if you are a student or a recent graduate, you might want to join a case study competition or a pitch contest that challenges you to solve a real-world problem or propose an innovative idea in hospitality. If you are a seasoned professional, you might want to share your insights or best practices in a panel discussion or a keynote speech. By showcasing your skills, you can demonstrate your value and potential to potential employers, partners, or clients.

5 Learn from the experts

Trade shows are also a valuable source of knowledge and inspiration for your career development. You can learn from the experts who have been in the industry for a long time and have achieved success and recognition. You can attend their seminars, workshops, or webinars to gain insights, tips, and advice on various aspects of hospitality management, such as trends, challenges, opportunities, strategies, skills, and tools. You can also ask them questions, seek feedback, or request mentorship. By learning from the experts, you can improve your skills, broaden your perspective, and discover new possibilities for your career in hospitality management.

6 Have fun and enjoy the experience

Finally, trade shows are not only a professional but also a personal experience. You should have fun and enjoy the opportunity to explore, discover, and connect with the hospitality industry and community. You should also take advantage of the trade show location and culture, and experience the local hospitality and attractions. You should also celebrate your achievements and reward yourself for your hard work and dedication. By having fun and enjoying the experience, you can boost your confidence, motivation, and passion for your career in hospitality management.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?