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5 Takeaways From My First CES

Posted on Jan. 28, 2025  /  Subscribe 0

Photo courtesy of Bosch.

January meant stepping into my new role at Bosch, traveling to Vegas for the first time and working my first CES®... So, l had plenty of new opportunities for learning, growth and more. These were my takeaways:

1. Pre-planning is invaluable

Engaging media contacts, governmental contacts, sales prospects and more proactively ahead of the show was essential to success. Bosch associates from U.S. and global locations were covering the ~six-thousand square foot booth spanning technology like the e-bike, home appliance, mobility, manufacturing and more. 

2. Connection prevails

Walking ~20K+ steps per day, being on your feet for eight to 10 hours and getting little sleep means that everyone must be there for one another. There is no ego about getting coffee, food, etc., for the greater good, so everyone is taken care of. Connecting with the team and ensuring everyone is OK is essential to surviving trade show life.

3. Expertise matters

Having the proper subject matter experts (SMEs) present to speak to the public, potential customers, media, etc., is key to making sales, increasing awareness, and more. Media training prior to the trade show is pivotal for the preparation of timely topics that folks can keep top-of-mind when giving interviews. During interviews, stay close, take notes, assist if anything gets tough, relay that you'll follow up on any additional questions and ensure an overall positive interaction. 

4. Flashy is fun and memorable

Vegas is known for being bold and fun, so having a compelling booth is essential to turn heads. Additionally, a flashy act can attract attention and notoriety... For example, we began the #BoschCES press conference with Mountain Bike and Street Trails Athlete Danny MacAskill  on stage doing tricks on an e-Bike. And Panasonic's booth performance with DJ Steve Aoki demonstrated just how high-performing (and loud!) its speakers are. In short, creativity is boundless at CES.

5. Food is premier 

The food in Vegas was unparalleled to any other city I've been to in the U.S. There is an infinite amount of cuisines and vibes across the city. Carefully curating where dinners, happy hours, etc., take place can be key to team bonding, sales experiences and more.

Overall, CES truly blew my mind and I look forward to working many more shows in my career to wrap my arms around all the city and show have to offer. What trade shows are you gearing up for this year? What lessons have you learned? 

Megan Bonelli is a senior corporate communications specialist at Bosch and the 2025 PRSA Detroit president.

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