Rally Etiquette Question

[mfowler]

I attended last years Rally, but I had just joined Taxi and didn't have anything to promote. I noticed a lot folks swarming the stage to give their CDs to panelists at the end of the sessions. But, what about when you see an industry person in the lobby area or in a hallway? Is it cool to approach and offer them promotional material or is it more appropriate to storm the stage? I don't wont to offend or bother anyone, but don't want to miss out on an opportunity either! I apologize if this has been posted somewhere, I but couldn't find it. thanks!Marlin

[anne]

Hi Marlin - Its ok to approach them in the hallway, but its better to say hello and talk to them than rush them to give them a demo. If you really want to make an impression, see if you can buy them a cup of coffee or offer to give them a hand if they are carrying a pile of other peoples demos ...Just MHO, based on my previous rallies.Hope that helps!Anne

[bobpepek]

I've wondered the same thing... I attended the ASCAP NY Industry Conference, and people bum-rushed the stage to hand off CD's to Rob Thomas after his keynote speech. As much as I'd like to hand off a CD to Rob, I felt it rude to start throwing elbows to get past the mob of people to slide a CD at his feet... However, I didnt get the opportunity to see him wandering the halls aimlessly. He was wisked backstage behind a curtain.Bob

[Casey H]

Even in the hallway setting it's not good to rush to try to give them a CD. They get overwhelmed with CDs and most likely throw them all in the trash later.The best thing is just to strike up a friendly conversation, make an impression, and see if they ask YOU about yourself. People make the mistake of rushing to talk about themselves. This is true in many business situations. Exchanging business cards, if you've made an impression works well because you can follow up with an email a week or so after the rally and they may remember you. Of course, if they ask for a CD, it's good to have it handy.A number of people here will tell you that because of the personal impression they made on someone they met at the rally, their follow-up email got good attention and even resulted in deals. Casey

[mfowler]

Thanks for the feedback! So it's ok if you use some common sense and the situation feels right. Last thing I want to do is invade someone's space. Marlin