It’s almost worse than getting drunk, forgetting someone’s name or not putting your business card in the draw for the door prize.
Sometimes the lure of an industry function just can’t compare to being cuddled up in your Oodie binge watching trash on Netflix. But before you no show at an industry event, consider what you’re missing.
Not showing up at a travel industry event is like booking a luxury cruise and then opting for a staycation in your backyard. Here’s why skipping out is the absolute worst thing you can do.
FOMO is real
A long time ago, during a pandemic not so far away, events didn’t happen. And we were the poorer for it. Industry events are where the magic happens: where you can connect with like-minded professionals, learn about the latest industry trends, and have the conversations you never planned to have. If you’re not there, you’re missing out. Not only do you miss the fun, but you also miss the chance to build relationships that could propel your career to new heights.
If you go, you know
Travel industry events are treasure troves of information. The destinations and products you sell are changing constantly and there are always new players. From insightful panels to groundbreaking product launches, you’ll learn things that could give you a competitive edge. By not attending, you lose that edge.
Disrespecting the organisers
When an event is well organised you can forget that there are in fact organisers. These events don’t materialise out of thin air. They require meticulous planning, coordination, and investment. When you bail, you’re not just missing out – you’re disrespecting the hard work and dedication that went into making the event happen. Plus, your empty seat could have gone to someone who genuinely wanted to be there. We get it, last minute emergencies pop up, but let organisers know as soon as you do. They’ll love you for it (and you want to get invited to the next shindig, right?).
At the end of the day, the worst thing you can do at a travel industry event is not show up. It’s a missed opportunity on so many levels – professional, educational, and social. You forfeit the chance to grow your network, enhance your knowledge, and show respect to the organisers who’ve worked tirelessly to create a valuable experience.
So, next time you’re thinking about skipping an event, remember this: your presence is valuable. Show up, engage, learn, and make the most of every opportunity. And who knows? You might just find that these events are the highlight of your professional calendar – and not just for the free canapés.
The travel industry is fun. And getting to hang out with people in the industry is just one of our many perks. So make sure you check out the Events Calendar to see what’s coming up. It’s the place to be!
And event organisers, take note: don’t forget to add your events to the Events Calendar to make sure you’ve got the right people in the right place (and to avoid clashing with another event). And if want to make your next event unforgettable, contact Sim, Karryon’s Event Extraordinaire. Reach out to her at simran@karryon.com.au.
