Trade shows can be overwhelming with opportunities around every corner.
With the PRINTING United Expo only weeks away, we want to help you make the most of it. To assist you in planning ahead and feeling prepared, we’ve put together some tips on how to optimize your trade show experience.
Opportunity to Connect
Without a doubt, one of the biggest reasons people attend conventions is to meet in person. With the top printers from around the globe under one roof, it’s an opportunity to catch up, pitch new business, and seek out collaborations. Consider booking meetings in advance to maximize your time on the ground with the following:
- Suppliers
- Customers
- Network with similar businesses
- Network with Trade associations
Meet Subject Matter Experts
Much has changed in the world of print since we last connected as an industry. The experiences of our colleagues can provide nuggets of knowledge and insights on emerging technologies. The following vendors can offer new perspectives on today’s industry:
- Equipment Suppliers
- Technology Vendors
- Process SME
Attend Seminars
Trade shows allow attendees to learn what they don’t already know. With educational programming scheduled throughout the expo, you can easily get caught up to speed on a variety of subjects. Whether it’s lectures and seminars, or the Hands-On Training Zones, you can focus on:
- Presentations from technology users
- Understand benefits / risks / KPI
- Collect stats
- Learn how others succeed and prosper
Identify Trends
Connecting with others from around the globe gives us a chance to see new perspectives. Both technology and the market have changed substantially in the last few years, making this an opportunity to look at what’s working now and ahead to the future. If you’re asking, “What’s next for my business?”, consider seeking out insights on the following:
- Technology
- Markets
- Customers
Make a Name for Yourself
Come prepared with plenty of business cards and 3 key things you want others to know about your business. Standing out from the crowd can enable you to make inroads in the areas that matter most to your business. Seek out opportunities to connect with those who can help to move your business forward. You can also:
- Publish information
- Present unique information of value for others
Conduct Research on Behalf of Customers
Not everyone will be able to attend the conference, but you can do research on their behalf. Reach out to your customers in advance to ask them what they are curious about. You may be surprised to learn the answers and it can help to provide better solutions to your clients moving forward. Consider:
- Understanding what information customers would benefit from at the event
- Representing customers with specific inquiries (with their permission)
Set up a Schedule
The PRINTING United Expo has a number of resources to help plan ahead. Whether it’s a floor plan or exhibitor list, utilize these materials to set up a daily schedule, making a road map that’s focused on your company’s priorities.
We’d love the opportunity to connect with you in person.
Please feel free to reach out to myself or Darren Loken, who will be attending the expo for Connecting for Results. You can contact us to set up an appointment.
We hope you find this guide helpful. See you in Las Vegas!
By Bob Dale