Often attendees arrive at a conference without planning their trip and end up feeling overwhelmed, especially when they enter the EXPO. There following are some tips to help make your visit a positive one.

• Come with an open mind - expositions are places to find out new trends in the industry.

• Plan ahead of time to make the most of the EXPO. Go to the conference website and check out the "virtual EXPO" where you can search for companies by name, location, keyword, or areas of expertise.

• Some exhibitors promote press releases, products, and show specials which will help you learn about hot topics and products in the industry. Use the Program Guide on-site and pre-show mailers to see what exhibitors have to offer.

• Business will not happen through osmosis. The purpose is to talk to the exhibitors, not your colleague who is attending with you. Bring the questions you would like answered and test them.

• It can be really hard work being an exhibitor, and approaching or being rejected by so many people. So if one does make the effort to entice you into their booth, give them the benefit of at least a few seconds of your time.

• Conversely, be totally honest if you are not interested in their wares - but do explain why. Simply explain why you are not interested - that will help them in the future.

• If you are visiting the EXPO with a colleague, split up; you are there to meet exhibitors. Meet up frequently to compare notes and consider which booths you may want to revisit.

• Do not look longingly at any "freebies." You may end up with another free pen, but you could miss a chance for a very useful conversation with another exhibitor.

• Enjoy the show!

Check out the EXPO for the 2010 ASTD TechKnowledge & International Conference & Exposition.