If you are like me, you want to see everything there is to see at yearly industry shows. I become this sponge-like creature, literally soaking it all in. I take pictures galore, grab 20 pounds of catalogs, and try to buy as many samples of things I crave, just so I can go back to my office and plot how I can utilize all my newfound goodies.

Although I sound like a crazed roadie, there is a method to my own personal form of madness. I map out what I want to do, what booths I absolutely must hit, and what classes I want to sit in. If I didn't get the lay of the land ahead of time, there would be no way I would finish a show that spans three or four halls in a convention center and still make the networking events and cocktail parties... and after a full day of walking those carpeted aisles, this Party Goddess needs a drink!

Here are six tips for getting the most out of your attendance at industry events.
 
1. Maximize your time.

Begin preparing for the convention about a week before you leave. This time will have an effect on how successful the upcoming event will be for you. Be wise. When you look back on previous conventions or conferences, what did you miss? Networking opportunities, or an out-of-town colleague you wanted to meet? Learn from those experiences. Take control of your own time. Set your priorities and imagine in your mind's eye how your time will go. If you set a specific agenda for large blocks of time in a day, allow yourself to be flexible with your schedule as well.
 
2. Set your goals.

Why are you attending this convention? Be clear with yourself. What is the top thing you intend to accomplish while you are there? Consider setting up meetings before you go to ensure you have time with the people you'd most like to meet with. If you have a program of events, mark the sessions you are most interested in, along with "A" and "B" choices in case they fill up. You are the one who can get the most out of the event. Don't wait until the last minute; chances are you might miss some of the presentations that promise to be of most interest to you and of value to your business.
 
3. Be aware of the event schedule.

Making it to all the presentations that entice you is unlikely. Conventions are a classic example of where you might want to "bite off more than one can chew." Some of the best times for networking are breaks, meal times, and between presentations. If you learn the locations and running times of specific events, you can create "chance" encounters with a speaker, potential client, or another attendee you'd like to meet.
 
4. Keep in touch.

Is there someone you've met, or plan to meet, at the convention you intend to recruit? Someone in your field you greatly admire?  Step right up! Smile and introduce yourself. Whatever your reason to want to meet that person, appreciation is an excellent icebreaker. Mention something you like or respect about them. If your meeting goes well, be sure to maintain contact. In the excitement and momentum of the convention, it is easy to make promises about staying in touch that you won't keep once you get back to the day-to-day of business. Remember to bring plenty of business cards! You never know what might evolve from that connection.
 
5. Enjoy yourself.

There are many reasons to attend a convention - to learn about advances or new products that will serve your business, to connect with others, to make a personal connection with one of the presenters. Being out of the office for a few days can be a welcome break. Perhaps you've recently finished a challenging project or created new business. Maybe it's time to update your skill set, or maybe you just want to be with your peers and share your experiences in a more casual environment. Don't just sit in the convention hall. If you're in a great city, maybe even get out and see the sights. It's okay to have fun while you're there - really.
 
6. Allow for serendipity.

Did you ever notice some of the best connections you make are unexpected? You're on a bus from the airport to the car rental, and you meet someone who happens to be attending the same event. If you're a woman, chances are the conversation starter is about shoes. Next thing you know, you have a new best friend. This also happens at meals. You may be having dinner alone, and someone steps up and asks to join you, and they become your new client. This can become contagious. Maybe you meet someone interesting during a session on what's new in widgets. You suggest going for Chinese food, and 10 other convention attendees show up. Why not? Seize the moment.

Leading entertainment expert, entrepreneur, TV personality, coach, author, and sought-after speaker Marley Majcher is CEO of The Party Goddess! and publisher of the ezine "How To Be A Party Goddess." If you are ready to take your career or business to the next level, make more money, and just be happier with your work life, then get your free tips on how to be a rockin' event planner at www.howtobeapartygoddess.com.

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