IMEX 2024 Top 10 Tips to Conquer the Conference Chaos

By Ben Landis, Marketing Manager

Will you be at IMEX? Stop by and see us at the San Francisco Travel Association booth (Bayside/D2943)!

Ah, surviving IMEX, the ultimate adventure in the world of conferences! Strap on your seatbelts, folks, because our team at Discover Santa Clara is going to help you navigate through your journey as you embark on a rollercoaster ride of networking, sessions, and endless walking. Before you grab your badge and step onto the tradeshow floor, here are 10 pro tips to help you prepare for IMEX 2024

1. Stay Charged Up:

Oh, absolutely, because what's life without our beloved cellular devices. Keep a portable charger handy because you don't want to experience the heart-stopping moment when your phone dies in the middle of sealing that crucial deal. Tragic.

2. Stay Hydrated: 

You’re going to be in Las Vegas, the land of scorching temperatures and dehydration traps. Carry a refillable water bottle, and remember, it's not just a fashion accessory—it's your lifeline. Stay thirsty my friends.

3.Prioritize Your Activities: 

IMEX is a whirlwind of excitement, but let's face it, you're not a superhero (unless you have a secret identity, in which case, we’re intrigued).

So, play it smart and prioritize your activities like a pro. Identify the sessions, networking opportunities, and parties that align with your goals and interests, and focus on those. And remember pre-planned meetings are your secret weapon to mastering this conference maze and making every minute count.

4.Dress Smart:

Oh, yes, it's time to play the fashion police at IMEX! Picture this: you're strolling through the conference floor, networking like a pro, and suddenly you spot someone hobbling around in heels that could double as torture devices. Ouch! Let's not make that mistake, shall we?

Business attire with sensible shoes is the name of the game. No one wants to remember IMEX as the place where they sacrificed their poor feet for the sake of fashion.

5.Take it Easy on the Coffee: 

Look, we get it; coffee is the lifeblood of conferences, and you might be tempted to chug it like there's no tomorrow.

While coffee can work wonders in boosting your energy, going overboard can turn you into a jittery, hyperactive networking machine. So, sip it mindfully, or risk becoming the coffee-fueled tornado that leaves people wondering if they accidentally stumbled into the circus instead of IMEX.

6. Take Breaks:

 In the thrilling chaos of IMEX, remember to give yourself some well-deserved downtime. Take a breather, refresh your mind, and recharge your energy to maintain peak performance.

Let's admit it; you're not a robot. Even robots need downtime to recharge. We’re from Silicon Valley so we know robots well.

7. Utilize the IMEX App:

 Who needs a map or calendar when you have the IMEX app? Technology to the rescue! (Again, us Silicon Valley nerds love our tech.) The IMEX app will have all the necessary information you will need to have a successful experience.

Just make sure your phone is charged---see point #1. 😉

8. Inform Your Customers: 

 Let the world know you're attending IMEX! Shout it from the virtual rooftops—LinkedIn, Twitter, and hey, why not send a carrier pigeon for good measure? Anything to get noticed!

9. Network with Purpose:

Be a networking ninja with a clear strategy. Time to channel your inner detective and hunt down your targets like a pro. Identify the key individuals or companies you want to connect with and find out where they will be during the event. They can run, but they can't hide...maybe.

10.Be Authentic and Have Fun:

Now, let's remember we're not at an uptight, stuffy corporate gathering. It's IMEX, where networking meets fun and authenticity!

So, unleash your inner wild spirit, crack a joke or two, and don't be afraid to show off your unique personality. After all, the best connections are made when you're being genuine and having a blast. So go on, be the shining star of IMEX, and let your authenticity light up the conference like a neon sign in Vegas.

So, fellow IMEX adventurers, armed with these tips and a dose of humor, go forth and conquer the conference. May your networking be fruitful, your business cards plentiful, and your stories legendary! Safe travels and may the conference gods be ever in your favor.

Oh, and maybe stop by booth Bayside/D2943! and say hello to our ROCKSTAR sales manager Sherry Bastani!