The Exhibitionist in Me

This Wednesday I will be attending and coordinating ‘Experience Business,’ my first exhibition with Appletree – it’s safe to say I’m a little bit nervous. As I’m yet to host or even attend an exhibition in my working life, I’m feeling out of my depth.  If you then add public speaking and networking to the table, this is going to throw me completely off balance. Although I’m nervous and slightly worried I know how beneficial it’s going to be for me.

As part of my Apprenticeship, one of the modules I’m taking is ‘How to co-ordinate an event.’ A main section of this includes tasks such as; setting up the venue, liasing with venue staff and ensuring smooth running the event. I’m more than happy to take charge of these duties as in my previous employment these are the kind of things I would do on a day to day basis. However, tasks such as; speaking to people who are interested in what we do at Appletree, other business owners and visitors is going to be a bit of a struggle for me.

It will also be beneficial to me on a personal level, in my quarterly review last month; I decided that I’m going to start attending Toastmasters to help me with my public speaking. This is not one of my strong suits; I’m not looking forward to meeting and greeting people on a business level. It’s a good job I’ve read Chantal’s blogs on How NOT to do Exhibitions and Learning to Speak and Find Your Voice and have spoken to Chantal, Yan and Nidhi on what to expect.

I’m really not sure what to expect from this, I know its going to be a great learning experience for me. Adding to the wealth of knowledge I’m learning at Appletree. It?s definitely a step in the right direction for me, boosting my confidence and increasing the likelihood of me going out networking for Chantal in the future.

We’re going to be having a fun game on our stand with some interesting prizes to win. Do you fancy your chances or would you like to just saying “Hi” and see how I’m doing? Then come along to ‘Experience Business‘ on the 9^th of October.