I like to think of trade shows as athletic events – that is, prepare for the International Boston Seafood Show the way you might train for the Boston marathon…have a plan, get plenty of rest, eat right and stay hydrated!
Whether it’s your first trade show or your fiftieth, here’s some advice for how to make your days in Boston as productive as possible:
1. Have a detailed game plan in place. Many faithful readers already have a packed schedule of meetings, appointments and must-sees lined up – good for you! Schedule every minute you have available, and plan in some back ups in case appointments fall through.
2. Spend some time looking sharp – that all important first impression! Dress to impress, but make sure you’re going to be comfortable (flats, ladies, flats!). A couple of pockets are helpful – stay organized and know where your phone is, plenty of business cards, a couple of pens…and speaking of phones – keep it quiet! Don’t interrupt a conversation to take a call or answer an email or tweet (unless it’s from me).
3. Talk to everyone! In line for the bathroom, waiting for a cab, in the elevator. Have an introduction ready, and don’t be afraid to use it. Some experts even recommend preparing a quote or two for the press, should they happen to ask why you’re attending the show, or what you’re looking for – don’t miss out on a great chance for some free advertising by stuttering you way through an answer you’ll regret.
4. Stay connected with Twitter! You might want to think about modifying your settings so you’re only getting super relevant tweets on your phone throughout the day. Check out some of these tweeters who will be at the show: @maryinboston, @seafoodsource, @bostonseafaood, @SeaFoodBusiness, @eattilapia, @wtseafood, @getchafishhere, @chicagofishdude, @barharborfoods, @IMOFoods, @ethan_mandel, @glacierbay, @iPura, @TurnerFisheries, and then plan to join us at the International Boston Seafood Show Tweetup!
Also, you can pop the show’s hashtag, #IBSS10, into the search function on Twitter and get all the latest updates on the show, as well as have your post seen on a panel of flat screens that will broadcast a live Twitter feed of anyone using #IBSS10 in their tweets! The live Twitter Wall will be located next to the registration area on the entrance level.
Have a great week – see you in Boston!
March 9, 2010
