NRA Show Chicago – The Big Do’s and Don’ts
Are You Prepared?
Think you’re fully prepped for the NRA Show this weekend? Here are some Big Do’s and Don’ts to remember, just in case!
Prioritise. List the people you want to meet, products you want to try, technology you want to demo at the NRA Show and aim to get these done first.
Schedule meetings beforehand to avoid disappointment.
Pre-socialise on LinkedIn and Twitter. The whole networking experience will be a little less daunting if people are expecting to engage with you.
Network with those who matter in the industry. Everyone’s in the same boat, step out of your comfort zone!
Exit conversations that are going nowhere. Heart attack, coughing fit, uncontrollable laugher, fictional meetings – the exiting possibilities are endless!
Wear a name tag. There will be so many introductions at the show your name and company will probably go in one ear and out the other. If you impress, your name will be noted. Make sure it’s visible.
Test exhibitors. There is going to be over 2000 at the show after all. Be bold – tell them they have about 30 seconds to impress you. If they can impress, stay. If they can’t, walk away. Simple as.
Make time to wander. After you’ve finished following up with business opportunities, make some time to explore the rest of the arena. The best exhibitors for your business could be the ones you stumble across by accident. Fate always finds a way!
Explore Chicago. The Show just happens to be held in one of the most exciting cities in the world. See the sights, eat the food and meet the people!
Be me, myself and I. Don’t be that me, me, me guy. That guy’s pretentious.
Oversell yourself right away. Let’s not send people running by acting like a door-to-door salesman.
Add professionals on Facebook. Unless they ask you to. Be wary of overstepping the business/personal relationship.
Over-consume alcohol. May lead to slurred business pitches and handshakes being replaced with inappropriate hugs.
Cling to one new acquaintance. You’re looking to make new business contacts and seek out new opportunities, not find yourself a new bestie.
Mention your business first. Big networking turn off. First comes personality, then comes business.
Dress shabbily. People probably won’t approach you if you look like the Aladdin of the show. Dress to impress.
Take it all too seriously. It’s a national restaurant show, not the be-all and end-all of your business. Relax, be yourself, and enjoy!
Don’t forget to download your free copy of the NRA Show Survival Guide for event highlights and more tips & tricks on making the very most of your attendance, here.
Good luck at the show from all the team @ ZinMobi and Mblox; we look forward to meeting you all in person soon!
Come visit us at booth #8819
