There is no better place to discover information about companies, industries, and innovations than at an Expo. Expos are designed for businesses to engage directly with visitors, creating a unique environment where you can gather valuable insights in a very short period of time.

You get to meet the faces behind the brands, experience their vibe, and enjoy the atmosphere of a lively showcase. For some, it may be hard to find a compelling reason to attend especially if you think expos are just for kids chasing face painting and cotton candy. The truth is, expos are much more than that. They are opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. If you’re considering attending one, here are some practical tips to help you make the most of the experience.

1. Set a Goal🎯

Never walk into an expo without a plan. Ask yourself: What do I want to achieve from this event?

A clear goal is the single most important factor in ensuring your visit is productive. It helps you navigate the exhibition efficiently, shapes the kind of questions you ask, and directs your attention to the most relevant stands. At large expos, a goal helps you prioritize and pinpoint the exhibitors you must visit.

2. Target Stands of Interest👍

Once your goal is set, create a mini action plan. Identify the stands most likely to provide the answers or opportunities you seek. These become your “must-visit” stops.

There’s a Shona saying, “Basa mangwanani” (work done in the morning is most effective). Apply this by visiting your top-priority stands early in the day while energy and focus are fresh. After you’ve checked them off, you can explore the rest of the expo at a more relaxed pace.

3. Keep Conversations Short 🗣️

Expos are not meant for deep-dive lectures or marathon conversations. Exhibitors often have hundreds, sometimes thousands, of visitors to engage with. Spending too long at one stand may not only drain your time but also overwhelm the exhibitor.

Instead, focus on short but meaningful interactions. Confirm whether the company can provide the solution you’re looking for, then collect their contact details. Use the expo as a starting point for relationships, and schedule detailed discussions a day or two later in a quieter setting.

4. Stay Open-Minded 📖

An expo is an incredible learning environment if you let it be. Some people make the mistake of showing off what they know, only to shut down opportunities to learn from exhibitors.

Go with curiosity. Expos showcase cutting-edge solutions, industry trends, and innovative ideas. Not all of them will fit your needs, but exposure to new possibilities is valuable in itself. Being open-minded allows you to pick up insights you might not have considered before.

Final Thoughts

Expos are powerful platforms for networking, learning, and discovering opportunities. With a clear goal, a plan of action, short conversations, and an open mind, you can maximize the value of your visit. So the next time an expo is in town, don’t dismiss it as just another public fair. Walk in prepared—you might walk out with game-changing ideas, valuable connections, and fresh inspiration.