An unexpected lesson in connection i’ve carried since my first big event.
Last week, I spent a morning walking the aisles of the Global Energy Show Canada, my own kind of field trip, checking out cutting-edge tech, reconnecting with old friends, and watching opportunity unfold in real time.
An unexpected lesson in connection that i’ve carried since my first big event.
Mission Accomplished:
✔️ Got a big hug from an old friend and colleague
✔️ Shook many hands
✔️ Uncovered opportunity
✔️ Learned about some great women in energy organizations Canada Powered By Women and the Canadian Women in Energy
✔️ Saw some cool tech
✔️ Had great laughs along the way with the best trade show wing woman
It took me back to my very first trade show as an events manager, setting up our booth, organizing the swag, and nervously prepping for the big activation. I had been brought in by the infamous LJ, who was known across the company as the best in the business. Coveted. Respected. And somehow, I got lucky enough to have her as a mentor.
A lot about events came naturally to me. I’m outgoing, bubbly, love making friends, and weirdly enough, I genuinely enjoy organizing things. My dad still tells the story of how even as a kid, I’d voluntarily organize the Tupperware drawer. Stacking plastic containers, weeding out the unnecessary, and ruthlessly tossing any lid without a match. That instinct to systemize and streamline? Yeah, it runs deep.
But being taught by LJ was next-level. It meant listening. Watching. Taking in and absorbing her wisdom. At that first event, I remember how kind she was to the maintenance staff at the convention centre. I commented on it, just a quiet observation, thinking it was nice to see someone so important be so down-to-earth.
She looked me dead in the eye and said,
“If there’s one piece of advice I’d offer, it’s this:
treat everyone with respect. Especially the person sweeping the floor.”
That line stuck. It still does. I’ve passed it on to every person I’ve mentored or managed, using her exact words. Because they matter. Kindness matters. Respect matters. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity—and I truly believe when you're warm and kind to those around you, you usually get the same in return.
And when you're in need—it's 10pm at the convention centre, things are behind schedule, you're tired and hungry, trust me, that kind first impression will serve you well.
Onsite at the Global Petroleum Show with an old friend and colleague.
If you’re building a brand and want a partner who values both big ideas and the little details—I’d love to help. Let’s talk about how to turn your next event, campaign, or strategy into something that actually moves the needle.
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