Announcements and press releases Routed and approved through senior management. Ready to release at the show or, even better, have already sent embargoed releases to key reporters and editors so they can work ahead. Online newsroom updated and maximized for reporters to easily find and secure what they need (including photography and video).

Booth graphics/giveaways/collateral All double-checked and to the respective vendors with clear shipping/delivery instructions.

Booth staffing Everyone briefed about show objectives and expectations. Any special apparel secured and badges/buttons produced.

Invites/events Invitations issued at least three weeks prior to your event. Follow up with a reminder to those who have not yet RSVP’d. If speeches are part of the event, introductions and talking points for each person should be written, routed and approved.

Meetings Make sure you’ve downloaded NBAA’s free mobile app, for iPhone and Android smartphones. Its interactive exhibit floor plan saves steps as you traverse the seemingly-endless Las Vegas Convention Center. Think through who you need to see and cluster those meetings as much as you can so you’re not running back and forth across the floor.

Social media Follow @NBAA on Twitter for updates and use the hashtag #NBAA17 to narrow the conversation further. Clearly lay out your content strategy for sharing on your various platforms: Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and blog. Designate who on your team is primarily responsible for writing, taking photos/videos and posting. Give special attention to mobile as show attendees will be checking you out from their smartphones and tablets as well as at your booth.

Technology Trust no one. Build in redundant systems and IT support to ensure that everything from video displays to Internet connections operate without a hitch.

Remember please and thank you Being on deadline makes it more important than ever to maintain common courtesy. You’re in this together.

Keep it professional and solutions-oriented If upper management starts dictating last-minute changes, breathe deep and plan how you will address them. Can you negotiate for keeping to the previously approved game plan? If not, can you tap into outside manpower to protect your team from massive overtime? Is there middle ground? It’s too late to change your advertising, but new messages can be communicated through the media.

Maintain the relationship You win the battle but lose the war, if you meet your immediate need but lose your team member’s heart. The show is all about building relationships and selling your product/service through face-to-face interaction. Your team is equally important to your success.

Energy Get plenty of rest before the show. You’ll need those reserves. Las Vegas tempts you with its nonstop entertainment. And you will want to tap into that. Don’t overbook yourself when you get home. You will be ready for some R&R.

Attitude Go into the show expecting great things and you’re more likely to arrive back at the office fortified by deepened relationships and new possibilities. The show will tire you, but it will recharge you, too. It’s great to reconnect with people you may only see face-to-face once a year. It has a reunion feel to it. But there are always new faces, new connections to make.