Are you ready? It’s hard to believe it, but ISC West is quickly approaching. Whether you’re a first timer or a seasoned veteran this show for the physical security industry hits HARD. So let’s make sure you’re prepared!
Here are 6 tips to make the most of your ISC West experience:
- Set goals
I highly recommend starting your ISC journey by writing down what it is you’d like to accomplish at the show. Is it to experience/discover new technologies or tools? Is it to learn about trending industry topics? Maybe you just want to network with some of your peers. Whatever it is, get yourself focused so you’re not too distracted or overwhelmed when creating your plan. Which brings me to my next point…
- Create yourself a schedule and plan
ISC West is huge. It’s the largest security trade event in the US with over 30,000 security professionals and more than 1,000 exhibitors. That’s a lot to take on in just a few days, so I highly recommend doing your research before you start aimlessly wandering the exhibit floor. Check out the exhibitor list, or search to see if a company you’ve been eyeing will be there. ISC has a handy “add to plan” button on each of the exhibitor profiles to make it even easier. You can also download the app so you can easily look up booth numbers and events. If you haven’t already, you’ll also start to receive invitations from exhibitors for meetings, dinners, parties, and other events. Start putting those on your calendar so when you’re in the depths of the show, you remember where you’re supposed to be and when. With all this said, don’t forget to leave time for organic networking and stopping by booths that catch your eye (more on that below!).
- Take time to check out new vendors & the small guys
Security is an ever-changing industry and it’s really important to stay abreast of the latest technologies and companies. Check out the New Product Showcase (where you will see HiveWatch!) and take a walk through the “Emerging Technology” area (and say “hi” to us!). Also, don’t forget to check out the little guys. The big names in the industry may have some grandiose displays and flashy booths, but some of the biggest disruptors in the physical security space have a smaller presence.
- Make networking a priority
Do not - and I repeat - do not underestimate the networking at this event. You might start chatting with someone in line for coffee and walk out with a meeting with a huge enterprise company. Connections within the industry are incredibly powerful so be sure to have your business cards handy!
- Wear comfortable clothes
Gone are the days of mandatory uncomfortable business clothes (wahoo!). While you’ll always see people who are more comfortable in their business attire, don’t feel like you need to break out your heels or uncomfortable loafers to fit in. You’ll see a wide array of wardrobe choices from shorts and flip flops to a suit and tie - so wear whatever you’ll be most comfortable in for long days and lots of steps.
- Pace yourself
It’s a marathon - not a sprint. Whether you’re a vendor or an end user, you’re about to have a very full few days in Las Vegas - so I’ll be the voice of reason here. Drink water, take breaks, and don’t forget to sleep at some point.
"I highly recommend starting your ISC journey by writing down what it is you’d like to accomplish at the show. Is it to experience/discover new technologies or tools? Don’t forget to check out the little guys. The big names in the industry may have some grandiose displays and flashy booths, but some of the biggest disruptors in the physical security space have a smaller presence."
See you there
Whatever your plans, we’re excited to be participating as an exhibitor this year and looking forward to catching up with old friends and making new ones. If you’d like to catch up while you’re there we’ll be at booth #31065! You can request a meeting ahead of time or grab a complimentary exhibit hall registration on us (a $150 value) here.
Vegas, here we come!