Chapter 54. Crashing Parties at Hotels

Businesspeople staying at hotels are there to improve their bottom line and to relax. What better place to permit them to interview you?

Like all travelers, they are there to experience new things. Away from office pressures, they listen more attentively and focus on change. Clear heads, open minds.

So let's get it done!

Most cities have around a dozen properties where your presence with business cards and a pen are all that's needed to interview instantly. (Callback cards for additional penetration too. Do 14). You just have to time visits to coincide with major events.

Call the hotel or meeting center and ask who'll be holding an event there. The larger events are on daily schedules given to the operators. Ask about where to park (free, if possible) or where guest parking can be validated. If you're not sure whether you want to attend, park in the short-term convenience (free) parking near the entrance and scope things out.

As long as you stay in the common and public areas (hallways, lobbies, restaurants, shopping malls, or vendor areas), hotel security won't care. The security guards are actually quite helpful if you act as if you belong there. You won't be acting, either.

Many events encourage the public to attend. They include jewelry, art, and antiques. Every participant has a table, and you can interview freely. Follow the job-fair techniques (Do 51).

Private parties require a little more creativity. Blend in and mingle, using the chamber ...

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