First-Time Attendees Guide to World Workplace

Attending IFMA's World Workplace for the first time can be an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of facility management, connect with industry leaders, and gain valuable insights into the latest trends. Whether you're a newcomer to the field or a seasoned professional, you'll want to make the most of your time. Here are some essential tips:

1. Plan Your Schedule in Advance

World Workplace offers a diverse range of sessions, networking events and keynote speeches covering various aspects of facility management. Before the event, carefully review the schedule and identify sessions that align with your professional interests and goals. Create a personalized itinerary to ensure you don’t miss out on key sessions.

Fiesta, Fiesta! Welcome Reception: The largest FM party of the year will be held at The Espee, a repurposed 1902 railway station in the heart of downtown San Antonio. Wear your brightest colors to get into the spirit of fiesta! 

2. Network Intentionally

Networking is one of the biggest reasons to join World Workplace in person. Take advantage of networking opportunities to connect with peers, industry experts, and potential collaborators. Be proactive in introducing yourself, exchanging contact information, and participating in discussions during sessions and social events. 

Download our "I'm Attending!" graphic to post on LinkedIn and let your networking know you're going. Find fellow attendees that you would like to meet and send them a message to meet at the networking events. 

Introducing Fireside Chats: Take a break from learning to meet other facility managers. Each day there are networking lunches and breaks built into the conference schedule for your to grow your network. This is the perfect time to brainstorm with other FMs facing similar facility challenges.

3. Plan Your Expo Experience

Explore the exhibition hall to discover the latest innovations, technologies, and services in facility management. Engage with exhibitors to learn about new products, solutions, and industry trends. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and collect relevant materials that can benefit your organization. Tip: Make sure to use the My Show Planner feature to plan out your time on the expo floor. Also, learn and check out what's happening on the expo floor. 

You're a Winner: Don't miss the daily expo prize drawings. There's multiple chances to win exclusive prizes and gift cards and you could be the lucky winner. 

4. Participate in Interactive Sessions

Many sessions at World Workplace encourage interactive participation, such as panel discussions and workshops. Take advantage of these opportunities to engage with speakers and fellow attendees, share your insights, and learn from others’ experiences.

Keep Up With the Keynote: IFMA is thrilled to announce NFL legend, businessman and entrepreneur Emmitt Smith as the World Workplace Opening Keynote Speaker! In this engaging session, Smith will provide attendees with the rare opportunity to hear directly from one of the greatest NFL players of all time, offering unprecedented insights into his illustrious career — both on and off the field. In this moderated interview format, attendees will have the chance to pose their own questions — making this an unforgettable interactive experience. Smith’s wisdom, anecdotes and perspectives on success, leadership and overcoming challenges is sure to be inspiring and enlightening — a great way to kick off World Workplace week!

5. Take Care of Logistics

Ensure you have all necessary logistical details sorted, such as registration confirmation, accommodation arrangements, and transportation options. Familiarize yourself with the venue and expo layout and plan your commute to avoid any last-minute stress.

Exclusive Facility Tours: Participate in our behind-the-scenes facility tours, providing a distinctive opportunity to delve into the inner workings of some of the most dynamic workplaces. Guided by the very facility managers shaping these spaces, you'll not only step into these cutting-edge facilities but also glean invaluable insights to transform your own. These sought-after facility tours sell out fast, so secure your spot soon and join us in unlocking the secrets behind successful facility management, taking a stride toward optimizing your workplace.

6. Follow Up After the Event

After World Workplace, follow up with the contacts you made on LinkedIn, review session materials and notes and integrate newfound knowledge into your professional practice.

Attending IFMA’s World Workplace for the first time is a unique chance to broaden your knowledge, expand your network, and stay ahead in the ever-evolving field of facility management.