Affiliates Forum: Reflections From The 2012 I&E
In the March 19, 2012 edition of FleetFOCUS, Mark Klein, Chair of the Affiliates Committee gave some thoughts and suggestions for Affiliates and Exhibitors on how to prepare for the Institute & Expo (I&E). I decided that I could use this guide as an attendee as well, so I printed a copy and kept it with me as I prepared my day's agenda. I found it a very useful tool and it kept me focused on setting my priorities. As Affiliates, the I&E is a prime opportunity for us to see our clients and to meet new ones. The opportunities are endless.
Using Mark’s suggestions, I realized that I was actually running out of time each day, and this turned out to be one of the best I&E’s I've attended. I have summarized these suggestions, how they benefited me at the I&E, and hope you will use them as well:
- Engage: I made it a point each day to engage with everyone I came into contact with. This was easy! NAFA Members are so friendly and willing to engage with you as well. I learned a lot as well I got to know people better and more about what they do.
- Bring You’re "A" Game: I made sure that I was positive and upbeat at all times. People are more inclined to engage with someone who smiles and makes eye contact. I also made maximum use of my time by always trying to be with someone. Alone, to me, accomplishes nothing.
- Networking: This was fun! What better place to network than at the I & E where there are hundreds and hundreds of attendees? I enjoyed the newly added coffee break sessions between the morning keynote speaker and the first education session. It was great to meet up and plan for later networking. Walking the Expo floor stirred up such interest; seeing and learning about all the products that are available within the fleet industry; and old friends were seen as new doors were opened. What can I say about the Welcome Reception except WOW! I really think everyone was there, shoulder to shoulder. You couldn’t turn around without seeing someone to network with.
- Have Fun: Well, I certainly did that! Daily! There was so much to do. I’m glad I had a Guide to help me plan and keep me on track.
My suggestion is for all Affiliates to use these concepts, not only in planning their days at the next I&E, but whenever you are interacting with your fleet professional peers. Get out there and interact and you will see great rewards for your efforts!
I look forward to seeing you!
NAFA Affiliate Dennis Christina is Vice Chair of the Affiliates Committee and BusinessLink Commercial Manager of Telegraph Dodge Chrylser Jeep, Inc.