It’s crunch time, and I have only a few days before taking off for the 2015 IPI Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.

This week will be incredibly full—just as yours will be if you are attending the biggest parking event of the year. In the mad rush, you may want to take a breather and consider how to make the most of the show, as well as your time:  

• Network like you mean it. Yes, of course, come loaded with lots of business cards, but take the time to have meaningful conversations.  When you wind up a conversation, connect on LinkedIn before you walk away from your new colleague. Quality is always better than quantity, and you never know who you may meet (or where). Stay on your toes!
• Keep an open mind. That zipline on Fremont Street in Old Vegas may not be your thing, but make sure you don’t stay entirely in your comfort zone. Expand your horizons a little, and take a different path. If you haven’t been on a tour or listened to the Ignite sessions or PowerPitches, give it a try. The program is chock-full of new opportunities and programs. Make sure you don’t miss out on a great experience by doing what you always do.
• I know I don’t need to tell you to make sure you have at least a little fun in Vegas (this is the parking profession, and we excel at the fun part). But how about a little spin on this to balance it out – wear your Fitbit, Jawbone, whatever fitness contraption you like. Take the stairs (not the escalators) a few extra times, and see if you can out-step and out-climb our staff. I think a little friendly (and healthy competition) may be in order, and we may even be in a betting mood!

Safe travels, and hope to see you in Vegas (Fitbit and all)!