Tradeshow Survival Kit: How To Be “HON Ready” For Your Next Event

Did you know that The HON Company participated in over 100 trade events last year?  We traversed the country, spreading product knowledge and “HON Ready-ness” at everything from college career fairs to dealer open houses to industry events, attracting thousands of attendees.  Through it all, we’ve picked up some tips and tricks that we like to call our “Tradeshow Survival Kit”.

Plan Ahead
Start by printing out a hard copy of the show’s floor plan.  Prioritize which booths you’d like to visit, make appointments with your key contacts, and then develop a route.  This way you can ensure you’ll see everything on your list, and save yourself (and your feet) from backtracking along the way.

Put your Best Foot Forward
Speaking of feet, they will thank you if you wear comfy shoes.  Go for something cushioned, supportive, breathable – and preferably already broken in.  Bring a spare pair if your suitcase allows, that way you can change it up a bit.  Don’t forget to charge up the ol’ fitness tracker so you can track all of the miles you log!

Pack Like a Pro
Check the forecast for your destination, and keep in mind that even if it might be 110° outside, convention centers have a reputation for being sub-arctic.  In fact, chilly temps are often the top complaint of conference attendees.  Dressing in layers will keep you comfortable through it all.

Stay Sharp
A water bottle is essential, and you might consider packing an energy bar or light snack as well.  This way, when all the walking, talking and late nights take their toll you’ll be prepared.

It’s in the Bag
Keep a small, lightweight tote bag handy for all of the swag that you’ll pick up along the way.  Bonus – a bag with your company’s logo or a fun design can be a great conversation starter!

Recharge
Worn out yet?  We’ve got you covered.  With comfortable and versatile lounge collections such as Grove^™, Endorse^™ and Flock^®, HON booths are great spaces to sit back and relax.  While you’re resting, take advantage of our power solutions to recharge your devices.  Just be sure to remember your power cords.

What are your tried and true tradeshow survival tips?

Beat the Winter Blues at a HON Showroom!

Winter blues got you down?  Touring a warm and inviting HON showroom is just what the doctor ordered. With locations in New York, Chicago, Washington, D.C., and Muscatine, Iowa you’ll soon be saying, “#Jonas and #Kayla who”?

New York:

Located near the iconic Flatiron building and historic Madison Square Park, our New York showroom is filled with natural light and mixed materials – an expression of HON’s strength and authenticity.  The bright pops of color and playful accessories are a nod to the building’s early roots as a toy factory.  Looking for an opportunity to “play” in this vibrant space?  Register for HON Product Training on April 12-13 or HON Product for Designers on April 14-15.

Chicago:

Housed on the 11^th floor of the Merchandise Mart – which until recently was the largest commercial building in the world, with its own ZIP code! – our Chicago showroom pairs sophistication with sustainable perfection.  The space is transformed on an annual basis for NeoCon and showcases our latest product innovations, as well as a spectacular view of the Chicago River.   Planning a trip to the Windy City?  Be sure to enroll in HON Product Training on March 8-9, and of course we’d love to see you at NeoCon June 13-15.

Washington, D.C.:

Our Washington, D.C. showroom is just a few blocks from the White House, so it’s only natural that it was inspired by the monuments of the nation’s capital…there’s even a “HON Monument”!  The welcoming atmosphere showcases a universal workstation concept focused on reliable, collaborative options.  Looking forward to enjoying the cherry blossoms on the Tidal Basin?  There’s a good chance they will open up just in time for HON Product Training on April 26-27.

HON Headquarters in Muscatine, Iowa:

Right at home in the HON Headquarters building, our Muscatine showroom interplays history and place with direct, real world examples of effective office design.  The century old wood beams and brick walls convey connections to local lumber barons, and are rumored to house a few friendly ghosts!  Don’t let that spook you though, they would love to see you at HON Intensive and Competitive Training on May 10-12.

Which HON Showroom are you inspired to visit?