Checklist for Expo Attendees: How to make the most out of an Expo

Whether you are a technology company or are in the business of making teddy bears, have traveled for business before or are a newcomer to the game, attending business Expos is pretty common in the entrepreneurial world. Thus, a few words of advice on how to prepare for these types of events can’t hurt. Being that VoIP Supply will be present at three Small Business Expos this year, we thought we’d share a few tips and pointers that have helped many here have a more pleasant experience while off site.

BIG TIP FOR THE EXPO

Have a plan of action for the business expo before getting there. Planning ahead what your day(s) will look like will help you be the most productive. Brainstorm questions such as: Why are we as a company attending the event? Whom do I plan to speak to? What is the overall goal for attending the event? And, how am I going to meet that goal? These questions can help guide you in the right direction, however, be flexible! Don’t be afraid to switch beats if a good opportunity arises.

Before The Expo

• Research and write down the companies or products that interest you and where they are located in the exhibition.
• List out your three must-visit booths and create a separate list for the rest that you would like to visit if you have enough time.  

During The Expo

• Exchange business cards to have contact information for further connection in the future.
• Write down at least one takeaway from each booth so it helps you recall the conversation after the event.

After The Expo

• Follow-upwith the companies that you are interested to maintain the connection.
• Be open-minded to all the information you received while at the Expo. It might come in handy!
• Review and prepare better for the next Expo.

DON’T FORGET TO PACK:

• Business cards to hand out at the Expo or to anyone interesting you find along the way.
• Weather appropriate clothing for the climate zone you are traveling into.
• Comfortable shoes that are presentable for while at the Expo since you will probably be doing a lot of walking and standing.
• Light snacks to boost up on energy on any given moment.  Protein bars and nuts work great.
• Mints Because this is a networking event, so chances are you’ll be talking to a lot of old pals as well as meeting lots of new people. Bad breath is not the impression you want to leave behind!
• Chargers for your laptop, cellphone and any other electronics you may need to bring along.
• Aspirin® and TUMS®. You’ll be prepared for headaches and heartburn and/or indigestion.
• A small notebook and pen to take notes. This can also be done electronically with a Smartphone or laptop based on personal preference.

Thanks to Ying-Hui Chen for her assistance with writing this article.