After months of build-up and a frenzy of activity at Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre this past week, Europe's biggest oil show is less than 24 hours from opening.
To help you get the most out of the show, each week we have been posting tips on how to survive the oil show. Now we give you the top tips we have heard.
Read on and make the most out of this week's 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
I ensure my business 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.
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.
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!
Rachel Creegan, PR and marketing director, ThinkPR
Being on your feet all day and into the evening can begin to take its toll and sometimes even flat shoes don’t do the trick. Keep a handy pack of blister plasters in your pocket or your bag and you’ll never be slowed down!
Victoria Byers – Senior Events and Marketing Co-ordinator at Expro
I take a box of tricks to every show, it includes everything from pain killers to double sided tape. I was once asked for a needle and thread to sew up trousers that burst so now always have a sewing kit in there too.
Make sure you have plenty of water, juice and snacks on hand for those working on the stand. Rarely does anyone bring their own supplies but stand duty is harder than it looks and a little sugar hit will help!
Shreyasi Bhaumik, Client Services Director, BCM Public Relations
Take a backpack to carry things, rather than a bag or briefcase with handles. This keeps your hands free for taking notes, giving and receiving business cards etc.
Have a jacket handy, the air conditioning tends to be cranked up at these shows and you don’t want to be freezing to your bones. For the ladies, bring an extra pair of tights.
Have a big breakfast, you’ll be lucky if you can get time to squeeze in lunch on a very busy show day
High demand can take a toll on the Internet at trade shows, take print outs of all-important documents to make sure you don’t miss anything.
Subscribe
