For some custodial managers, the investment to attend an industry trade show can be overwhelming. Although sometimes difficult to do, attendees should look past the initial cost and consider all the benefits that one can glean from such an event. Taking full advantage of all the offerings provided at industry events such as ISSA/INTERCLEAN® is an investment in your future.

Included in registration are educational and training opportunities free of charge. These sessions offer the chance to learn from top industry executives covering business or management issues, growth opportunities, industry trends and operations techniques that can be implemented into your departments.

Of course, you can’t miss the main event — the show itself. Walking the show floor and stopping at booths provides the opportunity to learn new techniques and cleaning methods that might create efficiencies you can take back to your department. Just remember, knowing your cleaning times prior to the show will help as you benchmark new techniques. The opportunity to test out new products and see first-hand how products and equipment can streamline cleaning is top-of-mind for any manager looking to increase productivity and reduce costs. Not to mention, many manufacturers offer specials and discounts during show hours — an added bonus if you’re on a budget.

Finally, you can’t put a price on the networking opportunities available throughout the week. Sharing best practices and bouncing ideas off other facility managers and industry executives is a must at these events. Programs such as the Networking Lunch, round-tables, Happy Hour and even discussions on the shuttles to and from the show can prove to be an opportunity in the making.

It is important to look past the price tag to really see the benefits that these industry events offer managers in the long run. Click here to learn more about ISSA/INTERCLEAN 2009.




POSTED ON: 9/9/2009