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As March rolls in the door, things in the printing industry begin to pick up. Trade shows—GOA in Miami Beach, PMA and ISA in Las Vegas, On Demand in Boston, IRgA in Dallas, FESPA in Berlin—give us a look into the newest technologies, "the latest and greatest" printers, papers, substrates, inks, laminates, laminators, and software, all designed to give you more options, more choices, an edge on your competition—all in an effort to help your business run better, smoother, and more profitably.
I know I've talked about the importance of trade shows in the past, but I don't think there is a single more valuable trip that you can make that gives you access, not only to the products you need to run your business, but also to the people who can help you to grow your business. From seminars to pre-planned meetings with manufacturers and other shop owners, trade shows give you something that no other media can—face time.
Even though we live in a high-tech, digital world, in business, face-to-face meetings are probably one of the most important things we do. While many of us find ourselves hip-deep in email and voice-mail messages, carrying laptops, BlackBerries, and other communication devices that keep us continually in touch, it's the time we spend sharing ideas in person that usually makes the most impact and is the most valuable.
Trade shows offer a chance to meet with the most people in the shortest amount of time. You can renew old acquaintances and make new contacts, exchanging ideas and concerns that might spark a new venture, a new opportunity, or a whole new line of thinking.
When was the last time you were inspired?
If you don't already have at least one or two shows on your schedule for this year, take the time to look over the options. With national, regional, and international shows to choose from, you are almost guaranteed to find a venue that will advance your business in some way, shape, or form. And, if you have the opportunity, try one that's outside your usual region—you might be surprised at how someone on the other side of the world might look at the same situation and come up with a completely different conclusion.
So whether you decide to stay in North America or take your trade show travel abroad, make sure to look for us at all of the upcoming shows. Between Cygnus Business Media's graphic arts and photo industry magazines, we've got it all covered. See you at the show!
author: BY DENISE M. GUSTAVSON