Making the Most of the Green & Growin’ Marketplace

In the fast-growing green industry, staying ahead of the growth curve is key to success for professionals looking to take their businesses to the next level. Thankfully, NCNLA offers a unique annual experience where knowledge and inspiration converge: the Green & Growin’ Marketplace trade show.

This gathering is like no other in our field, bringing together enthusiasts, experts and innovators from across the state, the East Coast and beyond, and the highest concentration of green industry professionals from across the Southeast. One of the most effective education and marketing events offered in this industry, Green & Growin’ will be brimming with new ideas for you to take in. But among so many valuable resources, how can you be sure to focus on the information most relevant to you? Let’s explore how to make the most of the Green & Growin’ Marketplace for the benefit of both you and your company.

Getting ready for a trade show is a bit like gearing up for an adventure — preparation for the journey helps ensure you have the tools needed to overcome the challenges ahead. With an event like Green & Growin’, the biggest challenge lies in organizing all the information and resources that will be available to you.

Start by thoroughly researching the event: its schedule, exhibitors and demonstrations. This step is a lot like studying a map before embarking on a quest.

Next, set your compass with clear objectives. What do you aim to achieve at the event? Whether discovering new plant varieties, catching up on industry trends or forging new connections, having a sense of direction will help keep you focused.

Finally, plan your journey. Create a detailed itinerary that includes the sessions you want to attend, the exhibitors you want to meet and the networking events in which you’ll participate.

Once you’ve arrived at the event itself, it’s time to gather information.

Networking is the bridge that connects you with fellow professionals, so be sure to attend networking events like receptions and dinners. These gatherings provide the perfect backdrops for relaxed, meaningful conversations.

Thankfully, the digital age has made networking easier than ever. Leverage technology by joining event-specific social media groups or using event hashtags like #GreenandGrowin24 and #NCNLA. Engage in discussions, ask questions and set up meetings while at the show.

And don’t forget to bring your business cards along with you — they’re like the calling cards of the trade show world. Or better yet, consider using digital tools to efficiently exchange contact information via, for example, QR code, iPhone AirDrop or Samsung Quick Share.

While attending the Marketplace, keep an eye out for opportunities to save money, make money and absorb as much valuable information as possible — the savviest of professionals excel at doing all three in one sweep. Imagine you’re gathering seeds for future growth as you collect exhibitors’ brochures, catalogs and samples, which should serve as points of reference later when strategizing back at home base.

Jot down key insights, “aha!” moments and any actionable steps that come to mind as you navigate the exhibitor aisles. These notes will serve as your post-event study guide, so take some time to review them later to make sure you capture all the valuable takeaways.

If your mind works anything like mine, it will be flooded with exciting new ideas and opportunities.

To elevate your ability to recall this information, consider using a digital voice recorder. Many apps even offer digital transcription services that can be saved directly to computer files.

The true power of Green & Growin’ lies in the connections you make and the knowledge you acquire, and those benefits should continue to blossom well after the trade show curtains close.

Transform the knowledge you’ve acquired into tangible results by staying connected with your new contacts. Social media, emails and even oldfashioned phone calls can help keep those connections alive. Nurture these relationships like you would a garden, and watch them flourish over time.

The insights, connections and experiences you gather at Green & Growin’ will be catalysts for your growth in the green industry. Keep these relationships thriving and turn your newfound knowledge into practical plans for the months and years ahead. Green & Growin’ can be an invaluable starting point for future success, so be sure to make every moment on that show floor count!