I had a candidate call me and ask for advice on how to work a tradeshow. He’s looking for a job, and exploring many avenues. He’s already ahead of the game by having a plan, but here’s my advice:

Before the show:

Send out an e-mail to all of your contacts, letting them know what’s going on, that you’ll be at the tradeshow, and that you’re looking for contacts and opportunities. Be specific in what you’re looking for…a sales/marketing/management job in medical sales, laboratory sales, pharmaceutical sales, clinical diagnostics, hospital equipment sales, medical supplies sales, medical device sales, imaging sales, pathology sales, biotechnology sales, cellular or molecular products sales, DNA research sales, etc.

Use your online social networks(LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter). Let people know that you’ll be there, and be willing to help other people out too, by passing on information to help them.

Set goals. Set a specific number for resumes to send out, a certain number of meaningful conversations to have, and plan to reconnect with ___ people. Use your network.

At the show, make your time count:

Dress the part. Dress for the job you want, and have the manners and social skills to go with it.

Go early, stay late. This is your focus for today. Don’t need to be somewhere else.

Ask for help. Walk up to the exhibit of a company you’re interested in and ask what their role in the company is. If they are unwilling or unable to help you, ask who you should talk to if you’re looking for an opportunity.

When you do meet the decision-maker, introduce yourself, don’t interrupt, and be clear. Use your “elevator pitch”. ”My name is _______________, and I find myself in the uncomfortable position of being out of a job, and I am looking for an opportunity as an XYZ, and I think your company, ABC, could really utilize my skill set.” Short and sweet. Remember…you’re putting him on the spot, and he has things to do. If he asks for your resume, have it ready. Wait to see if he follows up. Ask for business cards. Follow up with e-mails that include your resume and a CLEAR message: “I am looking for __________. If you are interested, please call me. If you’re not, do you know anyone who is? Feel free to forward my information to them. Or, give me the contact information and I will take care of that.”

Don’t be afraid to follow up more than once. That second or third follow up can be the one that gets you the job. Be patient but persistent.

Watch the video for more information, and let me know what you think.

Good luck.