It’s March already?  Time is just flying by!  As I un-pack, clean, write and re-pack for USITT this today, I wanted to check in and see if everyone else is ready for the week.  Have you made a list yet? You really should.  It is the worst to get to the conference and realize you forgot something.

First things first… cloths, pretty important thing.  Dress not only for the weather, but also to show off your self.  Remember, we are selling ourselves here. Extra cloths never hurt.

Resume and business cards.  If you are a student or a job seeker at the conference, more is never a bad idea.  I might suggest budgeting about 200 or so resumes and 500 business cards.  Again, it sucks to run out in the middle of the conference, so more the better.  It is ALWAYS a good idea to have the digital files on a jump drive that you can take to a FedEx Kinkos to have printed in Charlotte if you run out.

The other thing I always want to point out is general behavior and representing yourself or company at the show.  The thing I want to mention is common sense, USE IT.  You should also read Steve Shelley’s ” write up on what to expect at industry events.  Mr. Shelley has been doing it for a long time and has some great advice.  You may have already seen this before, but read it again, I always do before a big event.

When I started attending industry events, one of my former bosses gave me the greatest pieces of advice. Whether you are representing a company or yourself, while you are at an industry event, you are “on” 24/7.  No matter if you are on the trade show floor or at the bar at the end of the day, put your best foot forward and let everyone see your best side.

We are in an industry were everyone knows someone.  The person you just meet might know someone else and start talking about you.  Putting your best out there will make sure that conversation is a good one! I don’t mention this to scare you from having fun and being yourself, just use common sense. ;)

I look forward to seeing everyone in Charlotte later this week!  This is going to be a great week. Make sure you are prepared and ready. Safe travels everyone!