Retargeter

ad:tech SF 2014: a Survival Guide

There will be a lot going on during ad:tech SF. Actually, let me rephrase that. There will be an overwhelming, arresting amount of things going on at ad:tech SF. Read on for an ad:tech 2014 survival guide with advice that will help you get all you can out of this valuable, vast conference.

Don’t Forget Why You’re There

You should know why you’re at ad:tech.  If you don’t, now is the time to determine that. Do you want to network? Find prospects? Look for partners? Learn? Party? Navigating the jungle that is ad:tech will be much easier if you keep your reasons for going top of mind.

Make a Plan

There’s only one of you and over 30 sessions. No matter how good you are at multitasking, you can’t attend them all. Breakout sessions fall into one of five tracks. The tracks on day one are 1) mobile, 2) social, 3) video, 4) data/analytics, and 5) content. The tracks on day two are 1) mobile, 2) social, 3) programmatic, 4) strategy, and 5) hot topics. You could wander in and out of sessions trying to sample each one, but you’d miss out on important points and wind up learning about things that don’t matter to you. Instead, research the sessions ahead of time and attend the ones that are relevant to you. This way, you can ensure that your ad:tech education is custom-tailored.

Don’t Get Lost on the Expo Floor

One of the best parts of ad:tech is the expo floor, but like the sessions, you simply can’t be everywhere at once. There will be hundreds of booths vying for your attention with cool solutions, games, mascots, giveaways, you name it. Stay focused. Browse the list of exhibitors ahead of time so you can plan your visit. You can always partake in aimless wandering once you’ve checked your must-see booths off your list.

The Survival Kit

You absolutely don’t want to get caught without these:

• Snacks: There are no breaks in the ad:tech schedule, so depending on the sessions you want to attend, you might not have time to eat. Have some snacks and water with you in case you feel the need to refuel while you’re in a session.
• Note-taking tools: The top thinkers in advertising technology are sure to have some quotable wisdom. Make the most out of your learning and take notes to help you remember anything you hear that’s important or that you want to follow up on after the show.
• Business cards: With over 8,000 people attending ad:tech, you’re going to need them!
• Phone charger: ad:tech won’t just be at Moscone, it will be on social media too. With a fully charged phone, you’re ready to fully engage with the conference and everyone there.

Finally, don’t forget to come visit ReTargeter at booth 2252. We’d love to share tips & techniques, trade industry news & information, and consult with you on how we can help you boost your advertising ROI.