It's that time of year when dental professionals from around the world invade the Windy City. The Chicago dental meetings are a great way to gain knowledge, learn about new trends and see all the new & innovative products. Despite the unpredictable winters, the Chicago meetings attract the best and brightest the dental industry has to offer. It gives everyone the opportunity to network, get hands-on experience with products and give attendees the ability to talk one-on-one with vendors and manufacturer representatives. However, it can also be a bit overwhelming - what vendors are you going to see, what questions should you ask, what courses should you attend?
The best way to organize yourself and your time is to make a plan of action - what you want to accomplish over the course of the show. Visit the show's website to get a list of vendors or even a map of the exhibit floor. This way you can maximize your time by knowing exactly which vendors you want to visit and exactly where they are located. This is a big time saver!
Second, you want to research possible new products that will be featured at the show. This is the perfect opportunity for you to see them up close and personal. And don't forget to make a list of questions you may want to ask.
Bonus Tip: You can find Whip Mix at CDS - Booth 2620 & at LMT Lab Day - Booth D-43
CDS & LMT are packed full of educational courses for you to participate in. Don't wait till the last minute to decide which ones you want to attend, as some of them may require registration. Research the available courses and read course descriptions to see which one best fits the needs or goals of your dental lab or office. Most importantly don't forget your continuing education information like CDT or license number, you will need to have that at each course you attend in order to receive credit.
Bonus Tip: Whip Mix is hosting 4 incredible clinics on Saturday at LMT Lab Day. See a full listing of clinics and times here.
If you plan to buy any equipment or products for your dental lab or office take advantage of vendors show specials, discounts or sales. Show specials typically only last until the last day of the show, so be sure to ask.
Bonus Tip: Check out a meeting specials here, and don't forget to talk to check with our reps for any unlisted show specials.
Over the course of the trade show, I am sure you have collected business cards, took notes and picked up lots of literature on products, services and more. Take the time to sort through all your information. Once you've sorted through all your information don't be afraid to follow-up with anyone you met to ask additional questions, request samples or place an order.
Bonus Tip: If you had the pleasure of speaking with any one of our reps, you will definitely be hearing from us after the show, but you can call us too!
Originally published February 19, 2014, updated February 20, 2018