In last week’s blog post, you completed a quiz to determine your involvement style (if you haven’t done so yet, go back to answer the questions now). Keep reading to match your score to one of the following styles.
You can be found… in the booth (practically 24/7 while you’re in the convention city).
So what? Trying to do everything by yourself generally means that something will be missed (even if that something is just an appropriate amount of sleep). Don’t spend another minute deciding between the proverbial bird in the hand and two in the bush. Find some help: train your existing staff or hire a consultant with your best interests in mind. You will be surprised by how much better able you are to manage the rest of your life before, during, and after your event with just a little breathing room on-site.
You can be found… on your phone or laptop in the booth, hotel room, or hallway (as long as your phone/internet connection is strong).
So what? Whether or not you believe there is value in exhibiting, your company won’t enjoy the maximum benefits if proper attention isn’t being paid to your on-site efforts. Your home office will feel neglected and your visitors will feel ignored; because you cannot provide your full attention to either, your continual state of distraction will be apparent to all. Consider acquiring some assistance to take care of your office while you’re away or to focus fully on representing your company in the booth.
You can be found… at the golf courses, fancy restaurants, and evening receptions (good times follow you).
So what? All of the after hours networking may mean that your team can’t count on you for anything before noon. Shifting the time you have allotted for networking from late at night to morning hours (i.e. for coffee or breakfast instead of club hopping) will increase your productivity and enable you to be more available to your staff should any challenges arise. Lead by example – look and feel your best (even early in the morning, get up and to your booth before the show opens).
You can be found… wherever the schedule tells you to be (otherwise, it’s nobody’s business).
So what? Balance is important, as is fulfilling your responsibilities; however, the opportunities available to you while exhibiting are endless. On your own time, take full advantage by attending educational sessions, visiting with important contacts, considering potential areas of improvement for future events, and getting a jump start on other time sensitive tasks (like follow up).
You can be found… anywhere you want (your staff has everything covered).
So what? Although your team can respect your position and your authority to choose how you will spend your time at events, by the end of the show week, they may begin to resent you. However, a little good will goes a long way. Trade shows provide an excellent opening to build morale amongst your team members; so spend as much quality time in your booth as you can and share your sincere appreciation with each of your staff members.
Robyn Davis - Owner, When I Need Help (WINH)
Robyn helps exhibitors improve their results at conventions and trade shows by providing on-site sales and marketing support, pre-/post-event consulting services, and convenient products. Contact Robyn to discuss your situation today!
