This week I had the opportunity to attend VMware Explore with my colleague Jordyn Amazeen to help facilitate press and analyst briefings on the show floor for our client Tintri. Coming off the heels of a successful show, I wanted to take a moment to share some highlights and takeaways from this week.
- Better in Person: Since the shift to hybrid and fully remote work-from-home environments, there have been less and less opportunities for in-person interactions. While I have been corresponding with many of the clients, press and analysts via emails or Zoom calls over the years, it was the first time I got to meet many of them in person. Personally, it was a breath of fresh air to meet folks face-to-face and connect outside of a screen. Not only does meeting in person put a face to an email, but this also allows us to build a rapport with one another and have conversations that are more meaningful and memorable.
- Benefits of a Dynamic Duo: Oftentimes, PR professionals are assigned to work a tradeshow alone. Having multiple PR pros on the show floor comes with many benefits including more eyes to help scan and identify the crowd for press and analysts, the ability to tag team and take breaks without being worried of missed opportunities if press/analysts stop by, and ensuring spokespeople are where they need to be when press/analysts arrive.
- Function over Fashion: Tradeshows have varying expo hours and when you have to be on your feet for 9 hours, wearing heels is probably not ideal. When packing for these types of events be sure to bring a variety of comfortable shoes as well as clothing that you can layer. While the weather outside was in the upwards of 90 degrees, the AC was on full blast in the convention center and if you’re like me and get cold quite easily, having an extra thick blazer certainly helped me stay warm and comfortable throughout the day.
From the show floor to the buffet lines, VMware Explore was an amazing experience and I can’t help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment from working with such amazing peers and clients. ‘Til next time!
