Your Pre-Catersource Homework
/Q1 is an exciting time for goal-setting, strategizing, and preparing for the year ahead. As you ease into the new year, there’s no better way to kickstart inspiration than by attending the Catersource conference and tradeshow!
Every year, Catersource sets up catering and event professionals for success just in time for the start of peak season. If you’re headed to Austin for Catersource 2024, you’re in for a treat. But if you want the experience to produce yearlong results, you need to approach it strategically to get the most from your time onsite.
Here are four things you can do right now to ensure your trip is a success.
Create your game plan
Between educational sessions, tradeshow booths, and special events, there’s so much to do and see at Catersource — you simply can’t do everything. You’re only there for three to four days, so make the most of your time by arriving with a plan.
Review the schedule for educational sessions, tradeshow floorplan, and networking events to identify the opportunities you don’t want to miss. Look for topics, speakers, and brands that catch your attention, and pencil them into your conference agenda. When you arrive onsite, you’ll know exactly where to go and who to see instead of trying to figure out how you want to spend your time each day.
Pack your business cards
Outside of premier industry education, networking is one of the most advantageous parts of attending a conference — especially one like Catersource, which attracts thousands of industry professionals. So, as you’re planning your trip, don’t forget to pack your business cards and get ready to put yourself out there! If you need to restock, place your orders ASAP so they’ll arrive in time for your travels.
Expect to wear your networking hat at all times while at the conference, but be mindful of your energy levels. If you feel your social meter draining, take a break to grab a coffee or freshen up in your hotel room. You’re better off decompressing and returning with restored stamina than burning yourself out on day one!
Honor your out-of-office
Your out-of-office responder notifies others you’re away from the office, so they don’t expect a prompt reply while you’re at the conference. But treat your OOO as a gentle reminder that you’re attending Catersource to learn and network! If you spend the whole time working and responding to emails, you may as well have done so from your office.
It’s understandable if you can’t go a few days without checking in. Try to allot an hour in the mornings or evenings to catch up with your team or complete a few tasks. That way, you can remain focused during conference hours and maximize your time onsite. Of course, emergencies happen; if an urgent situation arises, do what you need to do!
Map out your return home
Don’t let yourself go home and dive right back into work! While your inbox might tempt you, you need at least a day or two to reflect on conference takeaways and follow up with new connections. As you’re blocking off travel dates on your calendar and setting up an auto-responder, add a buffer to avoid feeling pressured when you get home.
You can even create a list of action tasks in advance so you know exactly what you need to do upon your return. Here are a few to-do’s to consider adding to the list:
Review your notes and pick 2-3 ideas to implement. Then, make a plan.
Write to your favorite speakers.
Send follow-up emails to potential clients or partners.
Sort through business cards and follow contacts on social media.
Post about your experience on social media or your blog.
Unpack your suitcase, catch up on laundry, and get some rest!
Whether you’re a first-timer to Catersource or a seasoned attendee, it’s worth dedicating time now to set yourself up for a rewarding experience that produces results for the year ahead. And if you happen to see us onsite, please stop by and say hello!
Clint Elkins is the V.P. of Sales for SB Value, a Group Purchasing Organization that helps culinary professionals save an average of 16% on every food order. Membership is 100% free. No hidden fees. No extra work. Just extra profits. See how much you can save on your next food order when you become an SB Value member. Request a quote today.
