This week, I am taking a break from my media series in anticipation of The SMART Show. Now in its fourth year, the show really feels like it’s got some weight and momentum to it. And, like Vegas, it’s become an annual ritual for me and the rest of the SmartWork Media editorial team. Here are a few things I’m thinking about this week before I fly to Chicago on Thursday:
Do you challenge yourself and your staff to always be learning? The SMART Show, like INSTORE and INDESIGN, is all about improving your store. It’s exciting to be around so many retailers who are so energized to learn how to be even more innovative. If you’ve never been, you’ve got to make a plan to do it… either next April in Chicago, or this September in Dallas. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed,
How close is your team? How excited is everyone to see each other each day? I love the team I work with. I’ve got a special relationship and memories with each and every person on our team. We’re scattered all over the world, but we come together twice a year (now three times, with the show in Dallas). We talk work, we talk personal, we hang out, sometimes we even bust a move at the SMART Show Cool Blast party or terrify ordinary Chicago residents with our karaoke singing. There’s virtually no turnover in our company. If you don’t have a team like that, maybe you should be asking yourself, “Why not?”
Do you share what you know with your industry? I hate selfishness. It’s the bane of humanity. On the other hand, a mentality of sharing and caring about your fellow man makes you a happier person. INSTORE carries the banner of sharing in the jewelry industry, and those that have taken part have benefited far more than they’ve given up by sharing. If you’re one of those people who’s always eager to read what other retailers are doing but you’ve never shared your own innovative ideas, there’s no better time than now to start.
Sound off if you’re coming to Chicago for the SMART Show! I hope to see you there.
