As we prepare for our trek to the 2014 NAPO Conference in Scottsdale, we hear lots of advice about having clear goals to get the most out of our time at conference. Outline a schedule of sessions; prepare notes for meetings to attend and perhaps, a list of people to connect with.
Since our Conference Expo closes earlier this year (Friday afternoon vs. Saturday), our time at the Expo is limited. As you prepare, add a set of goals just for the Expo.
To start, take a look at the current list of Exhibitors (check the final list for changes when you arrive.) Is there a Corporate Associate Member (CAM) that you want to (finally!) meet? Is it someone you've spent all year working or collaborating with only by phone or email? Add to your list a visit to their booth to introduce yourself.
Are you looking for details about a specific company, product or service? This is the best chance to get that demonstration you've wanted. Maybe you need to touch and feel the product(s). Perhaps you just want to know what new products, improvements or enhancements they're releasing to the market this year. Add that visit to your list.
When meeting with Exhibitors face-to-face, tell them how much you LOVE their product or service and why. Give them suggestions to enhance and improve. Sometimes, it can be difficult to describe this over the phone or via email. Often, these ideas are best done in person.
Share your enthusiasm for an Exhibitor's product with your NAPO friends. Have them join you at the exhibit to show them why you're so excited about it!
Every year, I volunteer to participate in the Conference Partner Program. As the "veteran" guide to "first-timers," I show them the ropes by making it a point to meet them in front of an Exhibit booth in the Expo. I introduce them to a CAM; explain who CAMs are and how important it is to have relationships with them.
As business owners, having goals whenever we go to any event is key to getting the most out of the networking that we do there. The Conference Expo is no different. Make the 2014 Expo your most beneficial yet! See you in Scottsdale!
Karen Simon, Corporate Associate Committee Chair, Technology SIG Member, PC Tech Associates, Honolulu, HI
For further information contact Karen at info@yourPCTech.com