Lone Wolf Tactics for MD Expo Success

Reuniting with colleagues is a big part of the biannual MD Expo for many HTM professionals and vendors. However, what do you do if you are brand new to the HTM community? What if this is your first MD Expo? Your hospital had enough money in the budget to send one lucky Biomed and you are the winner! Yet, you don’t know anybody.

Don’t fret! These tips will prove invaluable as you arrive in Dallas and become a part of the TechNation community. Try one or all of the following to make sure you get the most out of your first MD Expo:

• Make Connections Now: The TechNation Listerv is an online community for HTM professionals. Visit the TechNation website today and sign up for the listserv. This is a priceless asset when it comes to finding solutions. Just submit a question via email and sit back as your peers flood your inbox with tips on how to approach and overcome the problem. The listserv is also a good way to let people know you are on your way to MD Expo Dallas. Let everybody know what you would like to learn more about and then schedule a casual meeting for when you are in the Lone Star state.
• Recharge Station: We aren’t talking about your smartphone. Before you pick up your badge for the exhibit hall explore the hotel. Seek out a break station where you can have a quiet moment or enjoy a casual relaxing conversation with peers. Everybody needs a break, besides you don’t want to miss the nightly networking events. One ideal recharging station is the MD Expo Village.
• Speaking of Smartphones: Pack an extension cord with extra outlets and keep it in the show bag you get when you check in at the registration desk. Power outlets are often hard to find, so if you can offer fellow attendees an opportunity to power up it generates the perfect opportunity to chat and add to your list of valuable contacts.
• A Pack of Lone Wolves: You are NOT the only person attending the conference alone. Find other solo attendees and make plans to meet up. You can usually find the lone wolves hanging back in the corners during classes and networking events. When you spot them, introduce yourself. Trust me, they are just as eager to meet somebody as you are.
• Waiting Can Be Good: There will be some lines. It might be at the registration desk or at the exhibit hall lunch or at the bar during Happy Hour. Take advantage of your wait by striking up a conversation with another attendee. Keep it simple, “Hi. I’m John. I’m from Atlanta. Are you from Dallas?” Now, just let the conversation flow.
• State the Obvious: One of the best “opening lines” is to be honest. It’s easy. Just say, “Hey, I’m at the MD Expo all alone and I’m looking to meet other Biomeds. Are you here with anyone?” If they say no, you can bond over your mutual situation. If they say yes, they’ll usually start to explain who they came with – and if their connections are nearby, this opens up an opportunity to meet others.
• Get An Autograph: OK, not really. But approach presenters after their session and introduce yourself. For best results, be prepared. Take time to greet them and ask thoughtful questions about their class. You may even want to ask them if they have time to discuss the topic further at a break station. Either way, you just made a connection with one of the smartest people in the HTM community.
• Have Fun: The MD Expo is an exceptional venue for education, networking and exploring the latest and greatest products and services in the Exhibit Hall. Yet, it doesn’t have to be all business. Relax, especially at the networking events, and get to know your peers away from work. Maybe you have a common hobby. Perhaps you share a favorite band or sports team. Kick back, relax and enjoy MD Expo Dallas!

For more about the MD Expo Dallas, download the pre-show planner.