Trade shows and other in-person events can be treasure troves of information and hubs of networking, but only if you prepare for them adequately. Showing up and hoping for the best is not a strategy for success, so it’s imperative to know what your objectives are and make a plan to achieve them.

 

“Trade shows and in-person events are powerful platforms for women in hospitality. It’s not just about seeing what the new trends are; it’s about being part of the conversation,” said Shetal Zina Patel, Women Hoteliers Director – Western Division for AAHOA. “These events provide opportunities to learn, connect and collaborate with professionals and build meaningful relationships. These are the places where women can drive change within the industry. There’s nothing more empowering than being in a room full of professionals who share your passion!”

 

AAHOA and the American Hotel & Lodging Association both put on a variety of conferences, trade shows and other events, and they offered a variety of tips and advice for those attending such gatherings. They are included below, along with a variety of other tips to help you get the most of your time at in-person events.  

 

BEFORE YOU GO

 

Download the event app so you always have quick access to everything you need to know about the event, including notifications about events.

 

Familiarize yourself with the venue so you don’t waste valuable time wandering around trying to find where you want to go.

 

Decide what vendors you want to visit and map out your journey.

 

Schedule meetings with the most important people you need to meet with.

 

Prepare what you want to say about yourself and your company, including answers to questions people might have for you.

 

AT THE EVENT

 

Wear comfortable shoes! Trade shows require a large amount of walking and standing, often on concrete floors.

 

If there’s a coat check, use it. The less you have to carry around all day, the better, especially because you’ll end up picking up collateral from booths along the way.

 

Make sure you bring enough business cards to share with contacts you make. You never know when they might want to reach out to you in the future.

 

Keep your phone charged, and consider a portable charger for long days. Not only will you need to access the general event app, but you’ll need to add contact information of people you meet and many events share information about educational sessions, meals and other happenings via QR code.

 

Take notes. You’ll pick up too much information about companies, people and the industry to remember it all and keep everything straight when you’re back at your office.

 

Don’t forget about cocktail parties, meals and other social events. These are great opportunities to get to know people in the industry and build relationships.

 

Trade shows also can be great opportunities for educational sessions. If possible, take some time to check out what’s on offer and expand your knowledge as well as your contact list.

 

Be confident! Everyone at these events is there for the same reason you are: To meet other people in the industry and to gather insights and contact information. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself and ask questions.

 

AFTER THE EVENT IS OVER

                                                                                                                                    

Follow up with contacts you made at the trade show. A quick, “It was nice to meet you,” or, “Will you be at the next big event,” email is a great way to keep the conversation going.

 

Add those you met to your contacts list for possible future communications—connect with them on business social media platforms like LinkedIn.

 

Evaluate what you learned through conversations and educational sessions and decide what questions that new information answered and what questions that new information created and act accordingly.

 

Reflect on what worked and what didn’t so you are more prepared for the next event.

 

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