Words from the Wise

• By Sydny Shepard
• Mar 28, 2016

Next week, I’ll be heading to Las Vegas for The International Security Conference & Exposition, ISC West to those who know it best. It will be my first ISC event, and I am one part excited, one part curious and one part already exhausted.

Since I was told I’d be joining my colleagues on this trip, I have found priceless advice from my superiors, peers, and of course from that vast black hole that is the Internet.

So, in case this is your first time too, read the three biggest tips that I have learned from those who have attended not just one but several ISC events. If you are a seasoned attendee and have any tips for me, I encourage you to connect with me on Twitter, @SecProdsSydny. I’m always happy to speak to those with such wisdom.

Sleep is for the Dead

If I’ve learned anything from those I’ve spoken with about the show, I’ve learned that it is going to be BUSY. There will be about 1,000 security companies in one place, the perfect opportunity to cover the most ground possible, but I like how Eric Pritchard, a Philadelphia lawyer who works with electronic security providers who has been to nearly 20 ISC events, put it best. “It’s a marathon, not a sprint.”

I’ve been told to get up early, and stay out late. Take advantage of the opportunities in the Sin City and mingle face-to-face with those who you usually are never in the same room with.

“You can sleep on the plane home,” one person told me.

Wear Comfy Shoes

“Stay curious,” is what they say. Walk the floor and ask questions; engage in conversations that lead somewhere. This is exactly what I hope to do, but that show floor is HUGE.

Some of the best advice that I have received is from Lindsay Page, our Senior Editor, who told me to wear comfy shoes and bring a backpack. While she, like me, will be attending ISC West for the first time, she has had many conversations with those who have been, and have decisions that they immediately regret, like bringing a brand new pair of shoes that have yet to be broken in.

A show floor like the one at the Sands Expo & Convention Center, just begs for a comfy pair of shoes and a comfortable bag that allows you to stay organized when you are on the go.

Have Fun!

Over and over again, I have heard the same thing. After asking someone for their advice on how to tackle one of the largest security conventions, they always end with, “But have fun!”

I like that this is sort of the over-arching theme of the show. While companies, integrators, manufacturers and consumers mingle together to see what’s new in the security industry, the common goal is to meet new people, catch up with old friends, talk new technology and revel in the industry we all choose to be a part of.

But most importantly, remember, What happens in Vegas…