I, personally, have learned much while attending tradeshows, and in particular, from one of the most obvious tradeshow professionals, my former employer, Mr. Bob Dickinson, former President of Carnival Cruise Lines.  Mr. Dickinson would beg on his knees in front of thousands of travel agents in his uber-expensive suit for his un-fair share of the cruise business.   You either loved Bob, (who loved ALL Travel Agents) or had issues with his delivery... either way his presence and delivery at every event was standing -room only! 

 

Only about 5% of tradeshow participants have the executive level profile and exposure of Mr. Dickinson, however, all of us who attend these events have an equal opportunity to meet people and to learn from, relate with, and connect to them. 

 

Before attending any event it is crucial that you prepare ahead of time in order to make the most of the experience.  I wish to pass on to you three Tradeshow / Net-connecting event tips for you to use when attending your next event.  These tips will help you connect to that professional network that is available to you:

 

1.  Determine your objective and set a goal before you attend the Tradeshow/Net-connecting event:  Are you attending to network and meet new colleagues?  Well then set a goal to collect 5 new fellow professional travel entrepreneur business cards that you can use to network with after the show. 

 

Are you attending to further develop your niche or specialization?  Set a goal to meet a specific supplier attending, collect their business card, and establish a face to face relationship (if you're really keen, you will ask for a specific appointment on site to discuss your marketing plan with co-op assistance and marketing collateral requests).  

 

2.  Bring your business cards.  Remember that this is a SELLING INDUSTRY! (Thank you Mr. Dickinson).  Your business card is an extension of you - a keep sake, a piece of you and your brand.  It is a visual extension of you.... Do I need to say more?  If your card does not have your picture on it, or does not create a WOW...get another card.  It's the first impression that counts.  Make it a good one...

 

Bring more cards than you think you might need!   There is nothing more embarrassing and unprofessional in business than not having a business card...talk about sinking before you hit the water. **

 

Print more than one kind of card for more than one brand that you represent.  This means that if you're promoting a specific group, or offer a specific type of travel service, then print a specific professional business card (and use BOTH sides for advertising).

 

3.  Follow up, follow-up, follow up!  Upon your return home, re-connect with your professional POWER TEAM...schedule the time to follow up with your new colleagues and contacts - your professional friends!!!  You took the time to collect their business cards, now take the time to Follow Up and say "Thank You".  I am a firm believer that like people attract like people.  Surround yourself and connect with the right people to enhance your professional POWER TEAM.