30 Apr A Day in the Life of Sheila’s Expo’s

Most people who know me, know that my background is in event planning. I love it, I have a real passion for it so when I first met and started working with Sheila Smith from Sheila Smith Sales and Events on her Business Expo’s, she was the perfect client for me.

Don’t get me wrong, there is so much about my current role that I love, particularly my Kate Days but I can’t help having a real soft spot for Sheila and her events.

I’ve now worked on four Business Expo’s with her and although I’m sitting here exhausted after the last one (as I’m sure Sheila is too), I am absolutely buzzing from yet another great event.

So, I thought I would share with you what it’s like to assist in the planning of these events and the work that goes in to them behind the scenes.

As told by your friendly neighbourhood VA (That’s Versatile, not virtual 😉)

Before I start, let me be clear. This really is a snippet of the work that needs to be done. Sheila is the face that everyone knows and who really makes it happen and what I do, is nothing compared to the hours of work and commitment that she puts in to make them a success.

So, what is my role in these events?

Well it all starts with enquiries. Most enquiries about the Expo’s, whether it be about a stand, or event times, or even if there is food provided, I will be the one answering those questions.

I’m also the one that chases the money! Sorry about that but you can’t expect the queen of networking herself to be hunting you down!!!

I deal with the booking forms. When you make the decision (and it’s a great decision) to exhibit at these Expo’s, I will be the one chasing you for your completed information.

I will liaise with everyone. From exhibitors to guests, to speakers to main sponsors, my job is to make sure everyone knows what’s going on from start to finish.

It’s my role to make sure that all permissions are in place and we have the right information for advertising. I’ll be the one nagging you to send me your logo. Please know that I’m not doing it just to get on your nerves, I’m doing it so we can give your business as much exposure as possible before, during and after the event.

Sheila and I will decide on the floor plan together. Now if you’ve ever done a table plan at a wedding, you will understand the pressure in this task. Getting this right is pivotal because these aren’t guests, these are paying customers!

I am the first person you will see when you arrive (again, sorry about that but I’m usually smiling!)

I’m the one who will get there early to make sure the Expo’s are set up correctly and everyone who arrives will have the right information.

I’ll take names and contact details of all guests. A mailing list at these events is essential (thankfully, we are going digital at the next one – Can’t tell you how excited I am about that!!!)

I’m there to ensure that everyone is happy. Inevitably, at any event there will be teething problems, so I need to make sure I can troubleshoot and problem solve as quickly as possible to ensure that everyone involved is happy.

My hands are constantly waving throughout the day. Not because I’m waving at people but because I’m directing guests around the room and telling them where everything is.

Then when everyone has left, I make sure nothing has been left behind and Sheila and I will sit and do a debrief of the day and how it has gone.

Every Expo is a learning curve for me. The more we do, the more I learn and the more I implement in to the next one.

All that’s left to do now is to follow up with everyone and make sure that it went smoothly for all involved.

Phew…I’m exhausted just writing that!!!

Believe me, my job is easy compared to Sheila’s. That women is amazing!!! I have never met anyone with so much motivation, energy, ambition and drive and an absolute desire to succeed and make everyone else a success along the way. She really is one of a kind!

I genuinely hope you had an amazing day at the Northants Business Expo and can’t wait to see you all again at the next one.

Thanks for all of your support!