HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. — From new product debuts to trend forecasting—not to mention networking and professional development opportunities—seasoned KBIS attendees know the key to a successful experience is smart, advanced planning. The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA)has developed a plan to help attendees fully experience the 2015 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS). The five steps for the plan follow.

1. Make a plan
Whether it’s your first year at the show or you’re into double-digits, goal setting can help you plan your time on and off the trade show floor. Align with your 2015 business objectives to determine which seminars and courses to attend and which booths to visit. It’s impossible to do it all.

2. Arrive early
Maximize the trip by building in time for professional development before KBIS officially starts. This year, NKBA University will offer 11 courses—10 of which are exclusive to KBIS. Seven are offered the Monday before KBIS officially starts, and four are offered that Wednesday. Can’t-miss courses include: “DiSCover Your Selling Style,” “Born to Buy – Growing Your Kitchen & Bath Business with Multigenerational Clients” and “Recruiting and Hiring for Success.”

3. Schedule power breaks
Give your feet a break from the trade show floor at a “Voices from the Industry” seminar. Over 90 one-hour sessions are offered from January 20, 2015 to January 22, 2015.

4. Come ready to network
Networking is a huge part of the KBIS experience; prepare to make the most of it. Research businesses in other parts of the country that are complementary to yours, whether it’s a potential partner, vendor or client. Make an introduction before KBIS via email, LinkedIn or Facebook to see if they’ll also be attending. A morning coffee or cocktail at The Bash can help forge rapport that will last long after the show ends—busting the “what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas” myth. The research you do upfront will help you make the most of your meeting, accelerate your relationship and make the connection more effective.

5. Make the NKBA booth home base
NKBA’s Center Stage will host more than 11 events throughout KBIS, including the NKBA U Professional of the Year Finals and 30 Under 30. In addition to carving out time to attend a session happening on Center Stage, making the NKBA booth your home base or meeting point means you’ll have greater opportunities to check out what you might have missed otherwise.

Visit www.nkba.org