Things to Consider Before Attending a Convention in Chicago

Attending a trade show or convention is a great way to network with professionals who work in and represent the same markets and industries as you. Conventions are not only extremely informative, but they are also ideal meeting spaces when networking with potential clients, investors, or future partners. Before attending an upcoming trade show or convention in Chicago, there are a few things to consider and keep in mind to ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Research the Convention Venue

Before you take time away from your day job, it is important to research the event you are interested in attending ahead of time. Research the event itself and the type of speakers and sponsors the event is likely to host. Consider the opportunity of renting a booth or sponsoring the event yourself if you have a brand or business you want to promote, especially if you market to the Chicago area.

Research the location surrounding the event’s venue along with available parking and potential accommodations near the area. Learn more about the size of the venue indoors and the number of attendees the event can host. Research the number of sponsorship tables or booths that are available before purchasing your tickets or reserving a space that is optimal for you.

Cost of Attending

Research the cost of attending the Chicago convention you are interested in. Expo tickets are likely to vary and fluctuate as the date inches closer. Purchasing tickets months in advance is highly recommended to get the best price possible. Oftentimes, conventions provide steep discounts and promotional offers for those who book in advance and choose to stay in the hotel that is hosting the event (or another hotel that is nearby). Compare the cost of a ticket as an attendee versus the cost of a ticket for a sponsor. Some sponsors and booth runners are exempt from paying the cost of a traditional ticket depending on the event type you are attending.

Travel Costs/Accommodations for Chicago

If the Chicago convention you are interested in attending is not located near you, it is important to consider the estimated travel costs and the cost of accommodations you will need while you are attending the convention. Research nearby hotels along with airlines that are offering discounts for booking in advance, especially if you are still months away from the upcoming event. Take time to research different airline booking services online to ensure you are getting the best price possible for plane tickets. If you are located within driving distance to Chicago, consider a road trip to save on airfare and to spend more time sight seeing and enjoying your time on the road. You can also call hotels that are partnered with the event venue in advance to inquire about potential discounts or offers available for attendees.

Sponsors/Speakers of Conventions in Chicago

Consider the current sponsors and speakers of the convention you are interested in attending. Are the sponsors and speakers relevant to your own business? What topics are going to be covered by those who are speaking and representing the event? Is the event valuable for networking or growth purposes in the line of work you are in?

Chicago Trade Show Booth Registration Tips

If you are thinking of registering as a sponsor or if you want to reserve your booth at an upcoming conference, there are a few tips to keep in mind, such as:

-Book Ahead of Time
–Calculate Costs First Before Submitting Your Application
-Consider Booth Amenities (Electricity, Lighting, Sound, Wireless Internet)
-Hire Live Talent’s Chicago Trade Show Models
-Consider Booth Size Before Ordering Trade Show/Promotional Items

Before heading to your next convention in Chicago, take the time to thoroughly research the event while calculating the approximate cost to attend. Whether you have plans to sponsor an event with a booth table or if you are simply planning to see the convention as an attendee, it is important to conduct adequate research to prevent unwanted and unnecessary surprises. By setting goals ahead of time and conducting adequate research, your next event will be a breeze.

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