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Tips For Making the Most of ‘The Show’ Experience
When first discovered Nightclub & Bar magazine, I was elated
with the information and continue to be. But one thing I explain to my
clients and other owner/operators in our industry is that if you have
not been to “The Show” and you are serious about your business, you
must go!
How can you explain to anyone what you get or experience at “The Show?”
And now this year for the first time they have co-located the
International Las Vegas Restaurant Show and the Las Vegas Hospitality
Expo with “The Show.” As a consultant in this industry, I simply am
blown away. For those of you that have been to “The Show,” you know
what I am talking about.
This may sound crazy, but I am being dead serious when I tell you that
you MUST have a plan before you attend “The Show.” Information is only
good if you retain it and apply it. Both will be difficult, as most who
attend will be overloaded with it — not just the information and
products, but the actual process of checking out all the education,
networking and having a great time.
Things to Bring
1. Comfortable footwear. This applies to everyone, but especially the
ladies. This is very important. Heels look great, but bring another
pair of shoes. You’ll thank me!
2. A backpack or rolling carry-on suitcase. Some vendors will give you
plastic bags or nice bags, but you but you will soon see that you will
have too many giveaways and info packets for those little bags to carry.
3. Pad and pen. I know, not you — you will remember everything. Think again. It’s a must.
4. Anti-acid. You will have the opportunity to taste from hundreds of complimentary new drink samples, wines and foods.
5. Headache medicine. Your head will be spinning with info overload and from the previous night’s revelry.
6. The Program Guide. When you arrive, immediately grab the official
Program Guide that includes the entire schedule of events and plan your
days. You may not get to
see everything.
7. Patience. Lines for cabs are crazy long. You might send someone out
early to get in line or leave about 20-30 minutes before you expect to
get where you are going next.
Questions You Must Ask Yourself
1. What specifically are you looking for at “The Show?”
2. What would you like to learn while attending “The Show?”
4. What are some new wines spirits, beers, waters, energy drinks and liquors that you feel your customers would like?
5. What would you like to improve about your venue?
6. Are you talking to other owner/operators with your type of
nightclub/bar/restaurant business? Remember, they are not in your
area/market, so they will share info and ideas with you. And, more
importantly, they are nice!
7. What are the top five educational events you want to attend?
8. What are some new ideas you have learned?
9. Write down your goals and make sure you meet or answer them before you leave.
10. Remember to ask people anything there. The experts will be at your fingertips! NCB
Robert J. Casillas, president and owner of Monsoon Entertainment, is a
nightclub and bar business consultant. He also is owner of Sapphire
Lounge in Tucson, Ariz.
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