Time is one of the most valuable, yet scarcest, of resources available to a small business owner or entrepreneur. An expo, such as the NSBC Summit, can either be a gold mine of new leads, contacts and knowledge or a complete waste of time based on your attitude, preparation and choices on the day.
Here are a few key tips to help you maximize your time as a delegate.
1. Establish your personal goals for the day
It is important to know what you would like to achieve. Is it to make valuable networking contacts, find top solutions for your business or gain insights and knowledge to help you become more successful?
2. Familiarise yourself with the session line-up
Decide which sessions you’d like to attend. You probably will not have enough time to visit them all so it is imperative that you prioritise those most relevant to you. Click here for the NSBC Summit seminar line-up.
3. See who’s exhibiting
It is easy to get overwhelmed with the sheer number of options and exhibitors on the day. To avoid spending needless time browsing, make a list of people and companies you want visit and speak to. Click here to see the exhibitors at NSBC Summit Online.
4. Practice introducing yourself in one sentence
An expo provides an incredible opportunity to network with like-minded business professionals. In order to make a great first impression, prepare a short elevator pitch. You will be glad you did. For more tips on developing your elavator pitch click here.
5. Take advantage of the experts available
You are unlikely to often have access to so many experts all under one roof in one day. Make a list of all your business needs, be they legal, logistical or even technological, and get the best advice and solutions you can from the exhibitors and speakers.
6. Bring business cards
Once you have made that great impression it is important to leave your new contact with a means to get in touch with you, so make sure to bring enough business cards. In these exchanges you will receive many too. Make a few notes on each card to assist you in remembering who you spoke to when you’re back at the office.
7. Be approachable and don’t be afraid to approach people yourself
The expo is full of people looking to connect. You don’t need an excuse; simply walk up and introduce yourself. By looking around and looking open and engaged, you’ll make it more likely that someone else will approach you too.
8. Follow-up
It is vital to follow-up and take advantage of all the contacts you make and solutions you discover while it is all fresh in your, and their, minds. Pop an email or make a call to touch base and take things further in the week following the expo.
Lastly, remember to keep hydrated, wear comfortable shoes, dress professionally and charge your electronic devices (i.e. phones, laptops).
Your success will be based on what you make of the opportunities available to you. So smile, exude passion, get out of your comfort zone, and come with a open mind and an expectancy to learn and succeed.
Proudly brought to you by the NSBC.