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Getting Noticed On The PBSA Annual Conference Floor

September 29, 2025 posted by Steve Brownstein

Getting noticed on the PBSA Annual Conference floor requires a strategic mix of preparation, proactive networking, and visual distinction. Since the floor is crowded with exhibitors and attendees, you need to be intentional about standing out.

1. Plan for Proactive Engagement

Your visibility on the floor comes from the connections you actively make, not just your presence.

• Research Key Targets: Review the attendee list, exhibitor list, and speaker bios before the conference. Identify 5-10 people or companies you must talk to. This allows you to walk up with a tailored opener rather than just "Hi."

• Prepare Your "Hook": Since the PBSA is centered on compliance, technology, and industry trends, have a 15-second, thought-provoking question or statement ready. Instead of "What do you do?", try: "I'm focusing on the impact of AI on source data quality—what's your biggest concern with that right now?"

• Be the Introducer (Host Behavior): Instead of only looking for people to talk to, look for people standing alone or at the edge of groups and introduce yourself. Better yet, if you know two people who should meet, step in to make the introduction. This positions you as a helpful connector.

• Don't "Hide" in Groups: While chatting with colleagues is great, avoid spending excessive time in large, closed-off groups with people you already know. You'll look inaccessible to new contacts.

2. Leverage Visual and Digital Presence

Use your clothing, badge, and phone to make yourself easily recognizable and approachable.

• Distinctive Attire: Most attendees wear dark business attire (navy, gray, black). Choose one bold, professional item that helps people remember you: a bright-colored blazer, a unique scarf, or a less ubiquitous tie. If you mention this item in pre-event outreach ("I'll be the one in the green jacket"), it makes you even easier to spot.

   

• Badge Placement and Eye Contact: Wear your name badge on your right side (where people look when shaking hands). Do not look at your phone while walking or standing on the floor unless you are actively looking up a contact—it signals you are busy and don't want to be approached.

• Use the Conference App: If the PBSA uses a mobile app, use it actively. Check in, comment on sessions, and use any networking features (like direct messaging or QR code sharing) to arrange face-to-face meetings on the floor.

3. Maximize Session & Post-Event Visibility

The exhibit hall is only one part of the conference. Use other opportunities to showcase your expertise.

• Ask Smart Questions: Attend a session and be the first or second person to ask a question during the Q&A. Stand up, clearly state your name and company, and ask a question that shows you've engaged with the material. This gives you high-visibility time in front of a captive audience.

• Social Media Commentary: Live-post key takeaways from sessions on LinkedIn or the event-specific social platform. Tag speakers and use the official conference hashtag (e.g., #PBSAAnnual). Sharing valuable content positions you as a thought leader and brings attention to your profile.

• Quick Follow-Up: After meeting someone on the floor, connect on LinkedIn or send a quick, personalized email within 24 hours mentioning a specific detail from your conversation (e.g., "Great connecting today about the new FCRA guidance..."). This reinforces your face-to-face meeting and cements the relationship.