What you probably did not consider is that person may be a one person show, as many of us are in the genealogical field, whether we are a writer, speaker, author or software producer. We likely flew into the conference city or we may have driven into town alone and there is no one else available to work the booth.

We may be out of the booth buying food to eat in the booth, giving a lecture, attending an organizational meeting, attending a banquet or maybe even using the facilities. In most all those cases we would be (multi-tasking) networking which you so rightly advocate. Another thing to consider is an exhibitor is in the booth from usually 7 or 8 am until about 6 pm. A trip out of the booth is often a welcome break.

Most people who exhibit have a wealth of knowledge to share about their topic or product and anyone who writes a blog, writes journal articles or conducts genealogical talks can learn a lot from them.

So, yeah, when you see a “I’ll be back” sign. Make a mental note and return. And when you see an exhibitor eating in the booth, or conversing with other conference attendees, go ahead and stop or simply go up the aisle and come back in a few minutes. You may meet your newest best friend or an important new lead for your next blog.

MIC

That said, people often like to have tangible products here and now. Instant gratification and all that. They are eager to take action on what they may have just learned and have possession of the product now. An order booth might not appeal to this type of buyer.