Prepping For Tradeshows

As I'm finalizing my trip to Los Angeles next week for my debut at the Connected Car Expo, I can't help but marvel at how much things have changed thanks to technology.  In fact, it wasn't too long ago that scoring a new 'qualified lead' meant discovering/finding the right landline phone number in order to make a cold call and introduce yourself.  Now, thanks to the internet and Social Media, not only do I know what the potential contact looks like and where they earned their degrees at, I might also know what time they land at the airport, where the after party is after the event and so on...

Of course, this all depends on how public people choose to be.  Personally, I try not to cross the line, (i.e. sharing TMI) but this can be somewhat subjective depending on your individual mindset and what generation you're from.  To be honest, I'm still a big fan of SMS :-)   In contrast, some trade shows even have their own iOS/Android apps to help attendees navigate and network, but I have never been a big fan of this approach.  With thousands of people at an event, it can be very challenging to get to the decision makers.

If you know me at all, you know that I like to regularly SHARE information with friends and colleagues.  So, below are a few basic techniques that I use to try and maximize my time at industry events.  I  look forward to hearing what works for you too !!

- Opt-in/Sign-up for event newsletters and social media feeds/groups well in advance of the show to start ingesting the social chatter

- Opt-in/Sign-up for any VIP events so you at least are on the list (you can always cancel if need be)

- Send a personal email to all relevant contacts in advance of the show so they don't feel like an afterthought

-  Specifically target individuals who live geographically close, as there's a high probability that they will attend

- Filter the panelists and sponsors to create a realistic target list and then reach out via email or social media BEFORE the show

- Use social media and your out-of-office email responder to spread the word of where you will be - and when

- Check-in and get your badge early the day before ths show so you can spend the 1st morning at a meeting instead of waiting in line

- If possible, try and stay at the event hotel, as it will save you time (and possibly money in the long run) from having to live/work in multiple locations during your stay

- Leave plenty of time between meetings, as being late is NOT cool

- I also routinely backup my laptop's hard drive and put relevant documents onto a USB thumb drive that I carry with me.  In addition, I print out a hard copy of my itinerary just in case...

Anyway, I hope some of these tidbits that I've picked up over the years can be helpful in your travels and Happy Networking !!

[p.s. Bring plenty of vitamins and hand sanitizer]