A trade show, conference or festival takes place every month. The SIGGRAPH conference in Los Angeles, runs from July 31-Aug. 4, 2005. Trade shows and conventions provide an opportunity to meet prospective employers, learn about other companies, explore new technologies and skills, and meet industry leaders. Here are 10 points of conventional wisdom to help you get the most out of any trade show.

Craft a plan of action before the show. What do you want to get out of the convention, conference or trade show? What do you want to see? Who do you want to meet? What do you want to learn? Read all the material you receive prior to the show regarding seminars and events so you don't miss something important. Usually the pre-show mailer will include short bios of the speakers and descriptions of the sessions. Study the program guide and examine the exhibit list before you go and set your priorities. The more work you do before you go, the more you'll get out of the show when you get there. Review the special needs of your company or business before you go so you can keep an eye out for those products or services that can meet those needs.

SIGGRAPH and other shows have websites where they post their exhibitors with links to the exhibitors' websites. Find out as much as you can about the exhibitors before you go. Make a list of the exhibitors you are especially interested in seeing. Some shows send maps of the exhibit floor ahead of time. Use a highlighter to mark those exhibitors who are essential to see. Plan an efficient route so that you don't go over the same ground repeatedly. Create a daily schedule or itinerary including events, seminars and appointments. Remember, it is difficult and time consuming to meet other attendees at the show. Appointments should be with exhibitors or others who will be at a specific place.

Organize. Order your tickets early. By registering before the show, you'll save time and you may get a discount as well. Order any special materials you need to bring. If you plan to job hunt at the convention, make plenty of copies of your résumé and other marketing materials and pack them in a separate bag and leave that by your front door so you don't forget it. Pack plenty of business cards or leave-behinds (at least 100). A leave-behind could include your name, phone number and email address as well as some samples of your work on a printed card. A few days before you leave, reconfirm your travel and hotel reservations to avoid last minute problems.

Arrange a specific time you will call the home office. A regularly scheduled call will allow those back home to collect your messages before you call and prepare their questions and concerns. This will help keep the calls short so you can get back to the show. Pack several large pre-addressed mailing envelopes to mail literature home. Bring your shipping account information as well. Bring a light empty bag or backpack to carry collected materials during the show. Pack a spiral bound notepad and extra pens to take notes during any courses or seminars.

If possible, arrive a day early to avoid jetlag and get rested before the show. Eat well and get a good night's rest. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes. Empty your purse and wallet of all non-essentials before you go to the show. Don't lug unneeded stuff around with you.