750,000 square feet of space. 65,000-plus attendees. 1000-plus exhibitors.
PRI is huge, to say the least. It overwhelms even the most seasoned of industry vets. However, it’s open to the public (with a $40 PRI membership), meaning weekend warriors can take advantage of this incredible assemblage of the top minds and companies in motorsport under one roof.
Here’s some advice in getting the most out of the show.
1. Don’t Show Up Without a Plan
What’s your most finite resource at PRI? Time.
Maximize your time with a plan. Use PRI’s My Show Planner, which you can access online via this link or as an app for your phone. Think about what you need or what you want to learn more about. Search PRI’s My Show Planner for exhibitors related to those needs.
2. Don’t Waste Your Time
You got 8 hours a day times 3 days. That’s 24 hours altogether.
A word of warning, though: On Saturday, many of the key people leave early. In reality, you have Thursday, Friday and maybe half of Saturday. Maybe.
Don’t expect meetings for more than 15 minutes on the show floor. Be brief. Be courteous. Be patient. Figure in waiting time (you’re certainly not the only one there) and transit time, too. It can take 15-plus minutes just to walk from one hall to another.
3. Don’t Panhandle for Sponsorships, But Network Freely
If you’re the type that thinks you can exchange keys on a first date, you’ll be disappointed when pitching sponsorships at PRI. Don’t do it, unless you have an existing relationship or you’re an Andretti, Petty or Unser.
Visiting exhibitors just for sponsorship is a major turn-off. However, PRI is a good time to start a relationship and meet new people. Key thought here: Picturing of any kind of corporate support as a partnership over a sponsorship can go a long way.
Keep in touch with them over the course of the year. More importantly, use their products. Once you have a working relationship, then ask. Until then, you’re a five-year-old with a toy drum.
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