Getting the most out of IPW is something Nan Marchand Beauvois, senior director, national council relations for the U.S. Travel Association, has studied for 25 years. She offers important advice for both first-timers and veterans of the event.

1. “What's important for first-timers especially is they need to do their homework and due diligence by the time they get to the marketplace floor. The bottom-line is you need a really good understanding of what you can bring to the buyer.”
2. “Be open and willing to meet people even if you don't have an appointment with them. It's not just what's happening on the marketplace floor, as important as that is.”
3. “The most important thing is to partner,” said Marchand Beauvois, “what we call co-competition. If you're a destination or a hotel, have a meeting with the general sales office of your hotel brand or CVB. The more information the buyer can get from you, the better.”
4. “Always keep in mind that IPW is a professional business environment. “Be conscious of the buyer's time.”
5. “IPW is ever changing and veterans, too, need to stay fresh and current on attendees' needs.”