A Day at the Trade Fair
The alarm went off at 5.30am the day of the Trade Fair, not good, as I had been up late the following evening at an ex- Round Table diner. It was still dark when I got to the Pavilion, I was cheered up to see so many friendly and familiar associates fromm the breakfast club. With help from all the dedicated volunteers, my truck was quickly unloaded and I started setting up my stand.
Around 8.00am I was all set up and ready for the day, having set up so early it gave me the opportunity to network with fellow stand holders whilst queuing for breakfast. I sat down with the eminent leader of our council, Sandy Ezekiel to enjoy my bacon and egg and catch up on the days we played rugby together at Thanet Wanders. It also gave me a good chance to get up to speed with some of the many new and exciting projects happening around the area.
After the usual speeches and formalities the doors were opened, I was not sure what to expect as I had not participated in this kind of event before and to tell the truth I was a little worried that no one would turn up! My fears were unfounded as a steady stream to visitors' came to my stand; one of the problems with my business is that I don't get enough opportunities to speak to potentials clients on a one to one basis. I was surprised at how much positive interest I had, not just the public that were actively encouraged to attend, but also from fellow local businessmen and women.
The really good news is that as a result of exhibiting, I have already taken on two new clients and I have earned fees that more than covered the cost of the event. I am sure I will take on more clients in the not too distant future from contacts I made during the day.
A warm thank you to the committee and all the members of the Thant Business Network who's hard work and commitment made it such a successful day. And just in case you were wondering I have already booked my stand for next year.
Chris Johnson - Gow's Independant Financial Advisers