SPE Offshore Europe starts just four weeks today! To help you plan, we have asked some show veterans for their tips on how to survive and thrive at Europe's biggest oil show:
Alexander MacLeod, founder and project services manager at Cambla
Take time to research the stand numbers of potential customers, or set up meetings beforehand, as they may not come and find you
On bigger stands the people manning the stand might change each day, so it is worth researching when they will be there in advance to avoid repeat visits to meet the correct person
It is wise to remember it can get very hot in the exhibition when you are walking around, so take plenty of water with you as the queues for the refreshment area can be long, and find a stand that has fans as giveaways to stay cool
Allison Craig, marketing co-ordinator, Kongsberg Maritime
We all know how many times we scrabble about, searching for our business cards. I combat this by ensuring that my own cards are kept within easy reach in a pocket of my bag – emptied for the occasion.
If they’re in a suit pocket, make sure you’re not performing contortions to reach inside. Download a business card reader app, then scan and add notes to those you collect.
Better than trying to cram some information onto the back of a card. Or finding them in a pocket six months later…”
Andrew Bradshaw, PR Account Director and Head of Energy Insight, Fifth Ring.
Never underestimate how long it can take to get to the exhibition centre with the amount of traffic all traveling to the same place.
Parking at most venues is also limited so if you’re driving, leave early to factor in time for finding a space.
One of the great things about exhibitions is the freebies - if you see a good one, grab it! Don't expect it to be there tomorrow because the good ones always go fast!
If you’re an exhibitor, it’s always a good idea to go down to the venue the day before the show opens and familiarize yourself with your surroundings. This way you’ll find your bearings more easily on the first day and not have to worry about locating your stand!
Be prepared to queue! Any food or drink stalls at exhibitions are busy and often build up at lunch time. Try get there before peak times to save a long wait!
If you’re a delegate who has scheduled meetings, make sure you know how long it takes to get from one area to another. It can sometimes take as long as 20 minutes to walk from one side of the hall to the other, so factor in travel time between appointments.
Do you have any tips? Share them with us and we'll share them with the show! Email [email protected]
Read the next installment here: How to survive tips #2
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