A4uexpo is just three short weeks away, so it’s time to start making the arrangements for travel, hotel etc. And also worth sitting down and making plans for the event itself – Who do you want to talk to, what stands are the must-attends, what sessions will pay for your entire time in London Town? Get this sorted now, and all you’ve got to do come 25th October is execute!

Who’s going?

There’s a delegate list here that lists all the companies that are attending at present – It doesn’t list individuals, and would be much better if the company names were actually linked to their respective company websites if known, but as long as you know a company’s name, you can quite easily pick them out.

There’s quite a few companies listed there that I really want to speak to (and also a few I’ll be avoiding like the plague), so I’ll be making mental notes to make a special effort to speak to all of them at some point over the two days. For those who are interested in speaking to us, we’re listed as Big Idea Media Ltd, our company name.

Who’s exhibiting?

The stands are now sold out, and the full list of exhibitors is now available to see here. All the major UK networks are represented, and it’s worth popping along the their booths, even if you already work with them, as you’ll get a feel for what they’re telling potential new affiliates and merchants about the Industry, and you’ll be able to blag some free goodies too!

There’s a good selection too of merchants, independent programs, and agencies represented, so there’s something for everyone. Even MIVA have a stand – I hope the quality of the (foot) traffic they receive is better than the traffic they send me! It’s really pleasing to see an Affiliate exhibiting their services too, so make sure you pop along to UK Web Media’s stand.

Which sessions should I attend?

The sessions are split according to whether you are a Merchant or an Affiliate. Some sessions are suitable for both, and as the waters are muddier than ever these days, with more and more affiliates becoming merchants and/or affiliate managers too, you may want to pick and choose your sessions.

Particular sessions that grab my attention are profiting from Social Marketing, Meet the Super-Affiliates, Conversion Rate Optimisation, Selling your web business, PR case Study: Million Dollar Homepage, SEO on Zero budget, and Will you need a network in 2008?

There’s a really good mix there, whether you’re a newbie, or old hat, merchant, affiliate or both. PPC’er or Content, doesn’t matter – there really is something for everyone. I do feel sorry for those hosting the early morning sessions on Day Two, as if past events are anything to go by, most affiliates will have had no more than 3 hours sleep, and will still be drunk… Which leads me onto…

Should I go to the Pre/After Show Parties?

Without a doubt, yes! Most of the business and networking will be done at the parties, and it’s your best chance to speak openly to people without worrying about missing a session or booth. And hey, who’s going to turn down free Food and Drink?

You’ll need to register for the Pre-event party on Wednesday 24th October, but all delegates for the a4uexpo are invited to The Fox at Excel for the A4uawards Ceremony on Thursday 25th October, and the after-show party on Friday 26th October.

Conclusion

Get yourself sorted, figure out who you need to speak to, what sessions you’re going to, and how much free food and drink you’re going to consume. Get that all sorted, and the event will pay for itself in no time! One final bit of advice – Bring plenty of business cards and headache tablets!

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!

You might also like to read...