 |
| Get the latest Packaging news and link to other industry resources. |
DISCUSSION
GROUP
What's on your mind?
Packaging Horizons
Top Ten Ways to Maximize Your Participation at a Conference.
by Donna Messer
1. Do your homework. Get details of the participants in advance if possible.
2. Ask for a list of exhibitors, delegates, etc.
3. Draft a one-page fax/e-mail introducing yourself in advance to delegates/exhibitors.
4. Suggest you are looking for strategic alliances. Use the words "How can I help you?"
5. Have lots of business cards. Sometimes it is a good idea to have your picture on it, particularly when you are in a country where we all look alike.
6. Connect with your embassy, local chamber of commerce, and any service clubs you belong to Ñ this way you are expanding your network in and out of the conference.
7. Use the Internet. Connect with clubs, associations, and lists in advance. Set up meetings to explore possibilities for joint ventures and strategic alliances.
8. Think laterally. Make all introductions a win/win. Don't just look for what's good for you.
9. Have a Web site that provides details on you, your company, and your products and services so that people can check you out during the event.
10. Draft a profile of yourself, list who you know, friends, associates, and neighbors and bring that profile with you. They could be important when making profitable connections.
RETURN TO PACKAGING HORIZONS EDITORIAL HIGHLIGHTS PAGE