5 Ways To Take Time Out of the Office & Attend a Trade Show

By Kate Stec 

Taking time away from your business to attend a trade show can feel like a challenge – but it’s actually one of the best investments you can make in your business. ASI Show Chicago, July 22-24, offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover new products, strengthen supplier relationships and gain valuable industry insights. Here’s how to plan ahead and step away without stress to attend a trade show.

1. Recognize the Value of Attending

Before anything else, remind yourself why attending ASI Show Chicago is worth it. This event isn’t just a break from the office – it’s a business growth opportunity timed exactly when you need it. By attending, you’ll:

• Find the latest products to wow your clients
• Meet top suppliers and build relationships that lead to better deals
• Gain sales strategies from expert-led education sessions
• Network with industry peers and uncover new opportunities
• Prep for the busy third and fourth quarters
• Stay on target to hit your year-end goals

When you see ASI Show as an investment in your future, it’s easier to justify the time away.

2. Plan Ahead for a Smooth Departure

The key to stepping away without disruption is preparation. Here’s how:

• Mark the dates on your calendar early. Commit to attending and treat it as a nonnegotiable business event.
• Involve your clients: Don’t just communicate that you’ll be away but ask for specific requests or wish lists. This not only gives you a glimpse into their future projects but allows you to deliver exactly what they need, and gives you a great reason to follow up when you get back.
• Delegate tasks to your team. If you have employees, assign responsibilities so operations continue smoothly. If you’re a solo operation, schedule designated times while you’re away to check your messages and emails and only do it at those times.
• Automate what you can. Set up email autoreplies and schedule social media or marketing efforts in advance.

3. Make the Most of Your Time at the Show

Since you’ve committed to attending, maximize every moment at ASI Show Chicago:

• Decide which education sessions you want to attend on Education Day. There are a variety of choices, so select the ones you think will best benefit your business.
• Plan your booth visits for both exhibit days. Identify the key suppliers you want to meet and create a schedule.
• Gather samples and marketing materials. Bring back physical products to showcase to clients.
• Visit the ASI booth where you can get hands-on tech support and product demos that’ll help you to become more efficient and productive.
• Engage in networking events like the Welcome Reception, ASI Gala and Closing Celebration. The connections you make in person can lead to new business opportunities.

The more intentional you are with your time, the greater the return on your investment of time and travel.

4. Stay Connected While You’re Away

Even though you’re out of the office, staying in touch is easier than ever:

• Check emails and messages periodically. Set designated times to respond to important inquiries.
• Use a virtual assistant or auto-responder. Let people know when you’ll be back and who to contact in your absence.
• Share live updates. Post photos or insights from the show on social media to engage clients and followers, positioning you as a leader and innovative thinker.

This ensures that business keeps running while you focus on growth opportunities at the show.

5. Put Your Show Experience To Work

Once you return, apply what you’ve learned to drive your business forward:

• Follow up with new connections. Reach out to suppliers and industry contacts while the conversations are fresh.
• Share key takeaways with your team, including new strategies, sales tips, business solutions and product trends you discovered.
• Use samples and insights to excite clients. Introduce them to fresh ideas and innovative products.

By taking action on what you gained at ASI Show Chicago, you’ll see the real value of stepping away from your daily routine.

Make It Happen

Taking time off to attend ASI Show Chicago isn’t time lost – it’s time invested in your business’ future. With the right planning, you can step away from the office confidently, knowing that the knowledge, connections and products you gain will fuel growth and success for the rest of the year.

Join us at ASI Show Chicago, July 22-24! Register today.