Conferences... Don't Leave Home Without...

Attending a conference and getting the most out of it involves being proactive - so how can you can the most out of Xerocon?

Start with the seating

Industry events, such as conferences, expos, exhibitions and networking events generally know how to make visitors feel comfortable - and many organiser start with comfy seating, like our stacking chairs! There may also be some tasty snacks on offer, refreshments stands and free WiFi.

Count it up

Although all of these factors make for a great experience it’s also a good idea to bring something to these events too, so you have great contacts, info and advice to bring back to your business. Our recent client ordered 1456 of our black stacking chairs for a London event that was open to small businesses that work in the accountancy sector. Like any large event, it’s easy to go from seminar to seminar taking in all the advice from guest speakers - such as Karren Brady, then return to the office with lots of notes.

Get out what you put in

Although this is the point of conferences, they can also offer so much more - and here are our tips to getting the most from events like Xerocon...

1. Ask questions

It might be a bit intimidating being the lone hand raised in a huge venue like the one we visited, but asking questions is a great way to really learn about topics being covered. They can stimulate debate and really open up areas and help you to fully understand different areas of your industry. If you want to get really organised then you can put a list together before the event and think about which speaker could answer them best.

2. Be an ice breaker

Networking is a great way to meet others in your industry, combine knowledge and share strategies. It can also help promote your business and even attract new clients. Whether you’re exhibiting at an event, or simply attending, networking is essential - but what it is exactly?

Well, each of us will have our own style and it’s up to you how you approach others. You might dive straight in introducing yourself, perhaps you have companies and people in mind already and have prepared some queries to put towards them. Whichever approach you take, one’s things for sure - remember your business cards!

3. Get tech ready

If you’ve been to a conference recently, you’ll see that paper and pens have given way to electronic note taking, so make sure you come prepared with your tablet, mobile or laptop. You can still choose to jot down notes if you prefer, but, with digital devices you’re free to take notes, images, video and then upload straightaway to work accounts and social media pages.

4. Walk in your own shoes

We’re not surprised our recent client choose our black stacking chairs for their event - they’re so comfy! We’ve had them manufactured to include premium quality upholstery that provides great support for many hours. The seating can also be linked together in seconds and quickly stacked/unstacked for quick set ups.

Comfort is very important at these events, and in order to enjoy conferences of this size as much as possible we suggest comfy shoes! These will allow you to get around large venues quickly and and comfortably, so all you need to think about is the conference itself.