Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned regular, small preparations can make for an effective use of your time at ACTHA’s fall expo events. Below are 3 easy tips for both association and commercial attendees to help maximize their event experience, courtesy of ACTHA’s Events Committee: 

Association Attendees

Divide and Conquer. Savvy associations will register multiple people and assign each to attend various education sessions or meet with specific vendors. Since sessions run concurrently, this allows the association attendees to experience all aspects of the event, and then regroup and exchange notes.

Think about your Association’s Needs. Make a list of the top 5 needs for your association in the near future. Then review the exhibitor list prior to the event and identify which companies offer products/services that may meet your needs.

Keep the Big Picture in Mind. Although you may not need a new roof anytime soon, it doesn’t hurt to develop a relationship with a roofing company now. You’ll be able to identify potential companies the association could work with once a need arises.

Commercial Attendees

Promote Your Support. Let your customers know you’re exhibiting at our event. It allows you to maintain relationships with the ones that attend, and your best customers will provide positive word of mouth to other attendees during the event.

Think About Your Customer’s Needs. Nobody wants to hear the same canned sales pitch. With ACTHA, the relationship comes first—then the sale. Take time to understand your customer’s specific needs and describe how you can help them. It may not be today, next month or next year, but establishing strong relationships will benefit your business in the long-term.

Learn about the Industry. The world of community living is ever-changing, and vendors who understand and adapt to our unique needs will be more successful. Aside from participating in the trade show, consider attending the education sessions. Not only will you learn more about the industry, you may meet potential customers!