Getting the Most Out of Tradeshows

Your 2017 Guide for Tradeshow Success!

With 2017 in full swing, it’s time to start planning for your professional development. Clients are very savvy about the latest and greatest trends, and if you don’t keep up on your education, they might find another esthetician who does! One great way to continue learning and growing is to attend a trade show. They are held in some great cities (hello, vacation!) like New York, Chicago, San Jose, Las Vegas, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, and others.

Skin care trade shows typically offer two types of education: an advanced education track and a manufacturers’ track.

The advanced classes are not product specific, and you can learn from top names in our field with years of experience. These classes are on a variety of topics, from treatments to business and everything in between. Sometimes CEs are offered, and an additional fee is required to attend. 

The manufacturers’ classes are usually product specific and can be very beneficial if you’re looking into growing your product line, curious about a company, or you want to refresh your memory on products you’re already using.

One of the most exciting parts of a trade show is the exhibit hall.

Filled with hundreds of booths, you can sample treatments, learn more about equipment/products, and see exciting innovations before they’re even for sale. You can network with vendors and other estheticians. It’s also a great way to save money, as many vendors offer trade shows discounts!

Here are some tips to help you navigate the show and get the most bang for your buck:

1. Wear comfortable shoes
   

2. Have a budget in mind of what you can afford to spend.
   

3. Get a show program and give some thought as to what classes you cannot miss. Give those top priority, then fill in the gaps with other classes.
   

4. Save plenty of time for walking the exhibit hall to meet vendors and learn about new products!
   

5. Make networking a priority. Bring business cards and talk to other estheticians. You’ll feel motivated, inspired, and refreshed when you meet others with your same passion for skin care!

To view a list of upcoming tradeshows, visit: www.ascpskincare.com/members/education/trade-shows-and-events for a complete lineup. Don’t forget, ASCP members receive a discount to the biggest shows!

If you'll be at the International Esthetics, Cosmetics, & Spa Conference (IECSC) in New York or Chicago this month--make sure to stop by the ASCP booth and say hello!

Safe Travels,

Jesse Cormier is ASCP's director of industry relations. Contact her at jcormier@ascpskincare.com.