NETWORKING TIPS FROM BREAKBULK EUROPE PROS

Networking for new business is the common denominator for Breakbulk Europe participants: meet the right people and as many of them as possible. Faced with thousands of people across two halls at Rotterdam Ahoy, efficiency is key.

We asked seasoned exhibitors and speakers, “What advice would you give a first-time visitor to Breakbulk Europe?” See the responses of industry leaders as they share their tips for making the most of your time at Breakbulk Europe.

John Pittalis, marketing & communications manager, AAL Shipping (AAL) Maritime Transport Stand 2A10-B11

“The first piece of advice that I would give to anyone attending Breakbulk Europe for the first time is this: study the exhibitors list and plan your journey around the floor to ensure that you get face time with all your target contacts. Due to the congestion of people at the event, your time with these contacts will be limited, so collect those business cards and follow up at the earliest possible opportunity after the show! Make sure also to attend networking and social events happening around Breakbulk Europe where delegates and exhibitors are more relaxed and open to discussion.”

Andy Tite, vice president, global business development and commercial director industrial projects, DHL Industrial Projects Freight Forwarder Stand 2A30-B31

“Having attended many Breakbulk events over the years while representing different organizations in various roles, my biggest advice for any first-time attendee is to do your homework on who will be there and who is most important for you to meet. The Breakbulk website provides a great insight to this with the floor plan of exhibitors, agendas and panel members all available well in advance of the event.

When you are physically there, the other piece of advice is to take your time; stop and talk to people, whether they are existing or potential clients, subcontractors or peers in the industry. We remain a people orientated industry and it’s a great event to expand your network and knowledge. Finally, don’t drink too heavily on the first night, it’s a marathon not a sprint.”

“Research companies and individuals you’re interested in meeting – then find them! Don’t be shy. Reach out and introduce yourself. Take the incredible opportunity to meet people in person, attend the educational panels and learn something new. Be sure to follow up after the event with the people you meet to truly build your network.”

“Make a list with countries where you would like to develop new business. Once you have identified these countries go to the exhibitor list country by country and select the exhibitor you wish to visit. Contact the exhibitors and make an appointment. After you have made your appointments mark the location of the companies you are going to visit on the floor plan. Calculate enough time for each visit. Usually the third day (June 8) is less busy to walk the floor. Get prepared for your visits and make a list of questions you would like to ask. Check out and visit also exhibitors with whom you don’t have an appointment yet.”

“Plan your meetings in advance but be prepared to adjust and improvise. It’s also important to stay open-minded and embrace spontaneous opportunities to meet new contacts on the spot.”

Ports & Terminals

“We have the whole team coming over–probably more people than we need! We’ve split coverage to the wet side, the dry side and breakbulk, so conquering and dividing. We’re going through the exhibitor list to identify who we want to see, and we’re using social media to promote our presence and the products that we have. Our team is incredibly excited: they won’t be in the stand looking at each other, they’ll be out on the floor shaking hands, exchanging business cards and trying to get business.”