If you’re attending the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives’ (ACCE) convention in Montreal this August you’ll want to make sure you have the following things with you:
Top Things to Bring to the ACCE Convention
Business cards. From networking to vendors, you’ll want to make sure you bring plenty of cards with you.
Comfortable walking shoes. Not only is the floor rather large and there are a number of things to check out, Montreal is also a very walkable city. The best way to explore it is on foot. If you venture into Old Montreal (and you really should) the cobblestones are not nearly as friendly to your high heals as you might wish they were.
A plan. Take the time to review ACCE’s information about the convention. If you’re goal is networking, make a list of people you want to meet up with. If you’re shopping for software, or a chamber currency program let’s say, list the vendors you want to visit. The conference can be overwhelming with so many great experiences available. Have a plan of what you most want to do and you’re more apt to accomplish it.
A smartphone and your charger. Not only does ACCE have an app but a smart phone comes in handy for adding contact information, getting directions, and making sure you don’t miss the latest social media meet ups. Let’s not forget the real reason you always need your phone — pictures!
Conference days can be chock full of things to do and be very long. While many vendors offer courtesy charging stations, having your cord with you will ensure you’re not caught with zero battery when your social media friends are trying to get in touch with you and plan some time together.
Mints or gum. For obvious reasons.
Postcards with stamps. No, these aren’t for the folks back home. These are for your to-do list. While you’re at the convention you’ll be in sessions with top minds in the industry. You’ll be presented with an amazing amount of takeaways. If you write them in a notebook, or take notes on Evernote, they’ll likely get lost in the massive amounts of information you come home with. Write one to-do item on each post card and mail them home to yourself. Upon your return you will have a clear idea of what you wanted to accomplish when you got back.
In addition to the things you bring, a few weeks before the event (aka now) start reaching out to people on social media. Update your profile pictures so that attendees will recognize you from them when they see you. Most of all bring a great attitude. You’re going to learn a lot and meet some really amazing people in the industry.
Speaking of meeting people, stop by our booth (#304) and say hi to Matt.
