I’m off at a trade show this weekend (The National NeedleArts Association (TNNA) Summer Show in Cleveland Ohio) and it creates chaos to my regular schedule. Here are three tips I have for staying productive.
Tip one – Water
Stay hydrated. Whether you’re exhibiting or attending make sure to drink water and you probably need more than you think you do.
Tip two – Schedule Down Time
It doesn’t matter if you are and introvert or extrovert, make sure you have some time to yourself.
If you’re exhibiting it’s to quiet the questions. Those of the attendees and also that little voice in your head that’s (very likely) screaming imposter.
If you’re an attendee you’ll need time to process what you’re seeing and who you are meeting.
Tip three – Set the schedule you need
For me this means setting the alarm a little earlier than I do and focusing on priority work in the morning before the show floor opens.
It means not scheduling too many meetings or appointments in one day.
It often means saying no to some of the extras that happen after hours.
I also make sure to turn in at my regular bedtime so I can get the sleep I need.
Bonus Tip – Comfortable Shoes
I’m not one for fashion (yes I understand the industry I work in) and I value comfortable shoes over anything else. The floor of most convention centers is not forgiving. Comfy shoes mean a happy you when the show is on its final hours.
If you’re here for TNNA, please visit PennyWise Consulting on Sunday in Booth 642.