IMEX Frankfurt: Top tips for newcomers from new talent Ritchie Munro

When Ritchie Munro joined the SEC as International Sales Manager in early 2022, he wasn’t sure what to expect when he attended his first ever IMEX in Frankfurt that same year.

As new talent stepping into the world of conferences, it was this first experience at IMEX where he learned just how unique and multifaceted the industry truly is.

This year he is returning for the 2023 edition prepared with key learnings from his first time round and having completed a successful first year as part of the team the Scottish Event Campus (SEC).

Below, Ritchie shares his top tips on what to expect and how to get the most out of your visit as a newcomer preparing for IMEX Frankfurt 2023.

Top tip 1: Reach out to prospective connections in advance

“This time last year, I was excitedly preparing for IMEX Frankfurt armed only with my ideas of what it could be like. It was clear it was one of the biggest and most important dates in the calendar from what my team had shared with me.

As soon as I arrived, I totally got it, the whole industry is there. I saw for the first time just how open, collaborative, and supportive it is. Everyone knows everyone, and you’re welcomed in as if you’ve always been part of it.

The opportunity for newcomers to make great new connections is palpable. I recommend reaching out to people before you go. Check out the attendee list on the IMEX portal, see who you share similar interests with and suggest grabbing a coffee during the show. It’s all part of the fun and can really add value to the conversation.”

Top tip 2: Take part in social activities

“The opportunities provided by the social programme cannot be overlooked, so make sure you jump in with both feet, you won’t regret it.

The social side of IMEX is perhaps one of its most important and rewarding features. The events, drinks receptions, dinners and other activities organised by the team are both fun and functional in equal measure, providing a whole range of opportunities for us as a sales team.”

I’m beyond lucky to work in an industry that sets you up to make honest, meaningful connections as part of the framework. My first morning in Frankfurt, I joined the 5K run, what an opportunity to network in a way that’s so natural as you take in the sights of the city.”

Top tip 3: Don’t forget the basics!

“I’m fortunate to have the support of one of our industry’s most experienced and successful sales teams who helped focus my energy for IMEX 2022, but I can see how someone coming for the first time would benefit from being organised with the basics.

There’s so much to take in, so these are the fundamentals I’d recommend for making the experience as smooth and productive as possible:

- Bring something easy and lightweight to take notes with

- Camera phone to take pictures of presentations at sessions (great visuals for your notes)

- Digital or physical business cards

- A rough plan for each day, set out up to 3 priorities

- Remember to make time to walk around too, you never know who you’ll bump into!

My introduction to IMEX couldn’t have come at a better time and was the perfect way to get my teeth stuck into what at the time was a new industry for me. My experience gave me a great foundation that I’ve been able to build on significantly over the last year, and I’m excited to catch up with everyone in Frankfurt from 23 to 25 May.”

Find out more about the SEC ahead of IMEX Frankfurt > https://bit.ly/3H66nx6