Monday, January 25, 2010

SHOT Show, Part Deux

We returned a bit weary from a full week of meetings, introductions, presentations, and rare opportunities to just sit and relax. The show was in all, a success, however I must say that it's size is overwhelming at times and a bit confusing due to the nature of the Sands Convention Center. All were relieved to return unharmed, and ultimately, inspired.

The outlook is positive in the outdoor world, with many companies going above and beyond their normal offering at the show. Behemoth booths and striking detail in merchandise presentation made for a great experience. A lack of tasteless promotion made the week palatable indeed, as did the quality of merchandise offered. Most reported a strong year with an even stronger predicted, and some were as bold as to say their best was just beginning. I might not go that far, however, I can see a strong vector moving in that direction for us as well...


Friday, January 8, 2010

SHOT Show, sans cheerleaders...

Oh the humanity. Should we or should we not hire the often tried and true feminine profile to augment our booth and attract a greater audience? To use a bad pun here - I can't pull the trigger.

Hiring the intentionally uninformed eye candy may have inherent advantages for some, however I might contend that the service it provides does not necessarily meet the goals of the company in hiring such decoration. What does it say about your company? That you will knowingly employ superficial attractive devices in lieu of informed, experienced personnel that will actually speak with knowledge and informed verse? Hmm...

I was conversing with my buddy, also attending the SHOT Show this coming week, which stated he would be employing some of the aforementioned delights at the show. Even more alarming, he was asking his fiancee to do the 'flashy' work. Double whammy. When in Vegas, I guess...

We are attending with the sole purpose of working with our existing clientele, meeting new opportunities, and rekindling dormant conversations that could use an infusion of enthusiasm. Not to mention, spending a week in close confines with our colleagues and co-workers. If we can make it through this week, we can make it through any week. We'll make sure we keep our eye on the prize, and our heads down when the girls walk by...