Here it comes again, your chance to boost your business and meet and reacquaint with old friends!
I'm heading to Orlando tomorrow for the big ISA show. We have our Expo as most everyone knows, it is also in Orlando at the end of July. I have been calling our franchisees about our event, this is what I'm hearing from you. The questions I field the most sound like this:
- Why should I attend?
- Money is tight, will it be worth it?
- Is it going to deliver what I need?
- Are there any special deals?
So, having been the chairperson for the World Expo for the previous three events, no surprise that I am a believer in the experience of meetings and the face-to-face contact with suppliers, other franchisees and industry experts. Here's what I say to answer the common questions that arise...
- Why should I attend?
- The Expo is like "back to school" for those who have already been to school. Each of our respective industries changes every year, this conference is your opportunity to learn about these changes. You get to learn in a controlled environment, removed from your store and the day to day happenings back home. I like to tell people, "If you're going to do anything to improve your business, if you're going to attend one session to help your business, go to the event that is CUSTOM MADE for you." That's our World Expo.
- Money is tight, will it be worth it?
- Only if you show up ready to grow. Just sitting in a seminar, wandering through the trade show or eating with the same people every meal may not make it worth your time. If you can gather some great concepts for your business each day; If you can meet and share with different franchisees during your stay; If you can focus before the event on what you need to accomplish - then go get it once in Orlando, yes, the World Expo will be worth it for you. Some franchisees include their staff, which is an added expense. Those that have done this felt the investment was worthwhile for key members of their team. Also worth considering as an incentive or reward for your best employees.
- Is it going to deliver what I need?
- Yes. Have a look at the schedule - Wednesday is a special SEO (Search Engine Optimization) training for all brands. More time can be spent with suppliers and vendors because they are included in our Thursday night "80's Dance Party". There are plenty of brand specific workshops throughout the schedule on each day. (view the Agenda) We have so many options for things we have used to shuffle throughout Expo events, you will be very satisfied with the content of the conference.
- Are there any special deals?
- So far, we have offered reduced rates for registration, the March Madness promotion with prizes, and more to follow. Airline wise, Orlando is an easy destination to reach. Understand, Tampa is one hour away also, if you're the person that wrestles Expedia for the absolute least expensive fares. Each year I do a quickie flight survey each year that estimates fares from major North American cities, keep an eye out for that, I'll do the same this year of course. Remember it is the middle of summer. It's Orlando. Bring your family and share in vacation time before or after the event. The resort is wonderful, we have arranged for free busing to Disney, Universal and Sea World, take advantage of all of this!
The theme this year is "Brilliant Solutions, New Ideas For Changing Times." We are experiencing changing times as your franchisor. We know the climate is different for you, also. Come together for time well spent gaining knowledge and the confidence to push forward in your business.