1. What do you feel are the most important qualities that a promoter needs to succeed in events industry?
My career as a promoter started around the age of 18, when I first took projects in the events industry. My experience so far has taught me that the first and foremost quality to succeed in being a top industry professional is to be very organised. Everything matters, from the way you present yourself, your manicure and make up, to checking the bus timings in advance. There are a lot of things which can happen in live events and the best measure to pre-empt any kind of stress and delay is organisation and preparation. I also think I couldn’t have managed to be successful without a continuous positive attitude and problem solving approach in my work.
My advice? Be yourself, be organised in preparation, be enthusiast and positive, take initiative in finding solutions and people will notice you for your talent and skills in the industry.
2. What does being part of the Expo Stars worldwide team mean to you on a personal level?
Being part of Expo Stars’ top worldwide team is an acknowledgement that I have been selected based on a set of personal and professional qualities that are needed in the industry. As a professional, there is one important aspect that makes Expo Stars a highly respected agency to work with: having a work relationship based on trust, which becomes stronger, year after year. Last but not least, the great thing is that I can move cities, still be part of the team and have a lot of opportunities to work with Expo Stars.
3. Why do you think exhibitors should hire you or external staff for their exhibitions?
External staff matter due to the nature of the industry, where exhibitors need people with the local knowledge and language, to help them run a seamless event and promote the image of the brand with a natural talent of driving people to the booth, engage them and trigger a conversation between visitors and the onsite team.
4. What is the most challenging part about working in trade shows?
The great thing about trade shows is that with every project, we discover new industries, companies and people from around the world. This can be a challenge sometimes, as we need to memorise product features and learn about the brand in a way that when we explain these to visitors, they should be engaged, and interested to hear more.
5. What do you enjoy the most about working at trade shows?
I like to be part of a team and utilise my skills, knowledge and share my expertise. Tradeshows are also a great place to discover international cultures for a few days whilst still being at home, which is very stimulating on a personal level.
6. What advice would you give to someone who wants a career in promotions or working in exhibition environment?
My advice is to keep in mind that with a new project and new exhibition, there is a lot of responsibility and you have to be part of the team. Each project is unique and you need to understand that every time you have to be 200% and understand why you are there.
7. What is your favourite place on Earth and why?
The area of Haute-Savoi in France because the light and the mountains are very peaceful. 🙂
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Name: Wassila
Age:25-30
Education: Business Administration and Cultural Project Management
Experience: Event Assistant, Team Leader, Lead Generator, Booth Hostess, Brand Ambassador
Location: Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich
The interview is part of the Tradeshow Staff Spotlight Interview Series with Expo Stars around the world.