Tips and Tricks to Get the Most Out of ISC West 2015

• By Ginger Hill
• Apr 14, 2015

Just as it's impossible to experience every part of Disney World in just three days, the same is true when it comes to the "Disney World" of security trade shows, ISC West. With droves and droves of attendees fighting for their place at booth demonstrations, events and presentations, I have developed some tried and true tips and tricks to feel like I have succeeded at ISC West:

1. The early bird gets the worm…always! If there is something special that you have been looking forward to at ISC West, be there early, as in 30-45 minutes early.

2. Participate in a scavenger hunt. Identify your most important goal for attending ISC West. Maybe it's finding a solution to the one security issue that has been plaguing you or one of your clients for months? Maybe you're hunting for the booth with the best freebies? (If so, you must tweet them to me, @GingerHill13!) Whatever it is, make this your top priority for the first day of the show and don't stop until you have fulfilled your goal. Afterwards, you'll have two days to leisurely stroll around the showroom floor, network, participate in events, etc. stress-free and more relaxed.

3. Make a new friend. The overall feeling at ISC West is one of friendly camaraderie, so extend your hand and shake the hands of those representing companies in which you would like to do business.

4. Pick up your badge the day before the showroom floor opens. I have literally seen the line for badge pick-up the day of the show snake all the way back to the coffee shop outside the convention center.

5. Two words: "comfortable shoes." Seriously. You will be walking upwards of 3 miles per day, so I suggest going for comfort over style. And, just in case, have a couple of Band-aids and a small tube of antibiotic cream on your person just in case a blister happens to pop up on your foot.

6. Stay hydrated. You will more than likely crave a lot of water based on the size of ISC West, and while there are many places to purchase $5.00 bottles of water, consider bringing a refillable water bottle to help save your pennies for the slots!

7. Be patient. Again, there will be thousands of people in attendance, all sardined together, just like driving on the freeway during rush hour traffic. Make a mental decision to be positive, patient and smile. This will help you flow through your day, rather than stopping every 3 minutes to take out your frustrations.

8. Be a foodie. Trust me, there is NOTHING worse than walking around the convention center with your stomach growling, smelling the burnt grease of the snack bar inside the showroom floor as hamburgers sizzle on the grill; yet, your schedule is jammed full. Be sure to eat a high-protein breakfast for hours of initial energy; and then, be sure to pause at least for a quick snack throughout the day. This will keep your body energized and your grumpiness from lack of nutrition at bay until the show room floor closes for the day.