So You Think it’s Fun?

Having just returned from some early-season trade shows, I am in awe of the commitment my industry colleagues have to help us build our business. I wrote about this some time ago in a commentary entitled, “A Salute to Our Industry Heroes.”

There are many things that make our industry tick. The ability suppliers and distributors have to provide proven effective promotional marketing solutions that meet critical business needs is important. The people in our industry are what drive the marketing impact we have.

I’ve met some great people in our industry. Even though I may only see them a couple times a year at events, good friendships have been developed. Through the wonder of social media, however, we are able to stay in touch throughout the year.

I met Sandy Nichols, MAS, at a PMANC Regional Association showcase in Monterey, Calif., a few years ago. Sandy is a territory manager for an awards company in Minnesota, and she lives in Minnesota, but I always see her in California at events, and at trade shows.

Sandy wanted to share her perspective of life on the road with the FreePromoTips.com community. This is something I couldn’t possibly write. I’m privileged to share with you her thoughts on the life of a traveling supplier rep in our industry. What she writes speaks directly to the personal relationships between suppliers and distributors that make our industry so great:

Chatting with friends over drinks during one of the weeks I am actually at home it comes up again: “So where are you off to next?” “I want your job.” “You’re always traveling to different places.” “So glamorous!” “That must be so much fun!” I try not to roll my eyes or raise my voice but my typical response comes out: “Fun? You think it’s fun! Let me tell you about all the fun you think I’m having.”