Join Miguel Neves, Andrea Doyle and Barbara Scofidio as they discuss their personal experiences, provide valuable tips on the show floor, and share strategies on how to maximize your time at IMEX America 2024.
Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or a first-timer, this episode will guide you through everything from making reservations and networking to surviving the whirlwind of Vegas. Hear expert advice and find out what’s in store for this year’s IMEX America!
focus
- IMEX America 2024 is one of the largest exhibitions in the meetings industry, with approximately 15,000 attendees.
- Skift Meetings will host its Innovation Lab, focusing on hot industry topics such as budgets and rising costs.
- Key tips for attending IMEX include making reservations in advance, paying attention to the showroom layout, and allowing transition time between meetings.
- Thursday is a quiet day, perfect for deep conversations.
- Networking is an important opportunity and industry connections are formed organically throughout the event.
- People have noticed a shift towards comfortable dress codes, such as wearing branded sneakers.
- IMEX’s multiple booths and events offer interactive and creative ways to participate, including technology hubs, destination demos and wellness programs.
- Evening events and receptions are an important part of the IMEX experience and often provide further networking opportunities.
- Tips for first-time attendees and introverts include attending a pre-show party and taking breaks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Episode summary
In this episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast, Editor-in-Chief Miguel Neves joins Andrea Doyle and Barbara Scofidio to discuss IMEX America 2024, one of the largest and most important events in the meetings industry. With approximately 15,000 attendees, IMEX America provides endless opportunities to network, learn and connect. The team shared their personal tips for making the most of the event, emphasizing the importance of pre-arranging appointments and paying attention to the showroom’s vast layout.
Thursday is considered a quieter, more relaxed day for more in-depth conversations, while earlier in the week is good for important meetings. The Skift Meetings team will also host the Innovation Lab, an exclusive event for planners to discuss pressing industry topics such as rising costs and budgets. Additionally, the industry is shifting towards comfort, with branded sneakers replacing traditional formalwear on the runway.
This episode highlights the interactive elements of IMEX, from destination presentations to unique events such as wellness zones and technology hubs. For those new to the show, the team offers practical advice, such as taking time to familiarize yourself with the layout and attending first-time viewer meetups to make early connections.
Outside the exhibition hall, vibrant evening events and receptions provide an informal atmosphere for continued networking and relationship building. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned professional, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to help you understand IMEX America 2024 and make the most of this major industry event.
