Get ready

Arrive with a plan –

• Make a list of the types of products/parts/supplies you want to look for or test drive, as well as questions about products and/or business that you’d like to get answered. Then use the GO EXPO mobile app, sponsored by Gravely, to search by company name or product category. Use the app’s interactive floor plan to map out your visit and contact exhibitors prior to the show to request appointments or ask questions.
• There are several new opportunities (and some big name speakers) on the education lineup this year. Review the schedule via the GO EXPO app or online to be sure you make it to the sessions that will benefit you most. If you’re bringing others on your staff, plan to split up & attend different sessions. Then share the information when you return home. Some of the sessions require you to register; be sure to sign up online or stop by the registration desk when you arrive at the show, if necessary.
• Contact colleagues you’ve met at the show in the past to make plans to reconnect while in Louisville. This is a great opportunity to seek advice regarding challenges you’re facing and to share success stories.
• Take a look at the weather forecast to determine the best time each day to get outside in the demo area.
• Every registrant receives an entry form for the Fabulous Friday $10,000 Giveaway, sponsored by Belgard, along with their badge. If you received your badge in the mail, be sure to bring your entry form and be on hand Friday at 4 p.m. to hear if your name is called.

When you arrive –

• Even if you registered in advance, it’s not too late to sign up for education sessions. Just stop by the registration desk.
• Plan on getting an early start. New this year, there are early morning sessions each day before the show floor opens. Why not kick start your day with some profit-boosting motivation?
• For an overview of what’s new on the show floor, make a stop in the New Products Showcase. Browse there to help generate a must-see list prior to walking the rest of the show floor.
• Use the GO EXPO app to take notes throughout the day. You’re sure to hear plenty of tips that you’ll want to remember when you get back home. Or note products you see inside that you want to be sure and test drive in the demo area. The interactive floor plan will help you map things out.
• Spend a little time at the end of each day reviewing what you accomplished and set a plan for the next day.
• Save enough energy to enjoy the free concerts held at Fourth Street Live! each night, Wednesday through Friday. They’re a great way to relax with your colleagues after a long day.

After the show –

• Share the tips you learned during the education sessions with your team and create a plan for implementing the new ideas.
• Review your notes about new products, contact suppliers with any unanswered questions and prioritize items you’d like to purchase to make your business more profitable.
• You probably made a lot of connections with peers from across the country. Follow up with quick emails to both new and old contacts. You never know when you may want to reach out through the year to seek advice or bounce ideas off a colleague who’s not a direct competitor.
• Mark your calendar for GIE+EXPO 2017, October 18-20.