CHICAGO — Going to a business event can feel like taking a train, a plane or an Uber.
From biking to the airport to catching flights to making connections in an unfamiliar environment, attending a trade show can seem overwhelming, especially for someone new to the industry.
Here are eight tips for traveling to events, with insights from Stephen Hess, senior marketing manager at Restaurant Events, LLC.
- Carry more than you think you need
While it’s tempting to travel light, Hess says it’s important to bring more than you anticipate using on any professional trip.
“I would just recommend dressing up…usually the days are longer than a typical workday, so you’re going to want to change clothes,” he said. “That’s the nature of the beast. You’re high on your feet…(and) you just want clean socks.”
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- Always check traffic conditions
If you’re going to catch a flight or attend any type of event, it’s important to check traffic conditions, even if you’ve traveled the route before. While it may seem obvious, it’s easy to forget this before or after a show.
Hess described an experience early in his career when he missed a flight because of traffic in Los Angeles. He had to book another flight home and return to the airport later.
However, if you encounter traffic or other unforeseen circumstances and miss your flight, it’s important not to lose hope and quickly find another way to reach your destination.
“If you call the airline and say, ‘Listen, I’m traveling on business,’ they’re usually more helpful,” Hess said.
Additionally, working with a travel agent can help you rebook your flight more easily.
- Arrive early
No matter where you’re going, arriving early can set you up for success.
“Go early because you can sit there, you can get your work done, you can check your email, you can get food (and) a bottle of water… I just think I’ve really learned over the years ‘Learned to plan ahead and leave enough room to make sure I could do that,'” Hess said.
- Send an out-of-office message, but be prepared for the unexpected
It’s a nightmare for many event professionals: Go to a trade show ready to network, learn, or close a deal, only to get a barrage of emails about an office emergency.
Hess explains that adding an out-of-office message to your email (which people will automatically receive when they try to contact you) and making a plan (such as including contact information for colleagues or a phone number in case of an emergency) can help you avoid Tense situation on the show floor.
You can learn how to create an out of office message on Microsoft Outlook here.
However, Hess advises that if you need to work on-site, it’s important to be prepared to make adjustments if necessary.
“At the end of the day, work comes first in a way. You’re definitely here to network and learn new things, but if it’s just checking your email or taking 15 minutes before you leave your hotel room in the morning — my Meaning, it’s okay if you’re a few minutes late, or if you need to leave to take a call, it’s okay,” Hess said. “Planning ahead and being prepared for the unexpected is the best approach.”
- Pack your “travel bag”
If you need it, having a bag packed with essentials can help you leave quickly without forgetting something important. Hess keeps business cards, hand sanitizer and other items in his “duffle bag.”
- Use a rewards program
Most major airlines, hotels, and other travel services have rewards programs that you can sign up for to earn a variety of discounts, free services, and other incentives through business travel.
Since most event professionals travel more than professionals in other industries, it’s worth setting up a rewards account to get the perks.
Airlines reward programs you can check out include United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. To earn points for hotel stays, choose Marriott Bonvoy.
- View the Internet Correctly
Keeping Interpersonal Interactions In Perspective Can Make It Less Intimidating.
Early in their careers, many event professionals walk into an unfamiliar showroom or meeting space where they don’t know anyone. This can seem daunting, especially in the presence of executives or more experienced professionals.
Hess recommends keeping the right attitude and starting with a joke.
“I think if you can talk the whole thing over to yourself, it makes it a little bit easier… When you start meeting these people, they say ‘Hi, I’m a CMO[chief marketing officer]. officer), ‘They’re just one person… you’re all trying to grow your business, you’re all trying to meet new people,” Hess explained.
- know how to recharge
No matter your experience level, traveling can be tiring, so it’s important to know the best ways to rejuvenate you.
Hess avoids burnout by networking with peers in the industry. However, if you’re more of an introvert, there’s nothing wrong with taking some time to rest.
“I think traveling is fun. It’s something you should look forward to, and, really, at the end of the day… it’s a very rewarding experience. I love the events industry, I love what we do. I think bringing people together It’s amazing to be together, that’s what it is: people want to go out, have fun… shake hands, (and) make new deals,” Hess said.
stay tuned trade show director Young Professionals Corner to learn more industry tips.
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