IAEE sat down with Eric Udler, producer with All Show Services and former Chair of the Public Events Council to learn more about his background in the public events sector. Eric has been a longtime supporter of IAEE joining the organization in 1992 and he produces the Super Pet Expo and New Jersey Home Show.
How did you get your start in the exhibitions industry?
Right out of college I was offered two jobs on the same day. One was with Bell Atlantic selling cellular phones and the other was a marketing coordinator position for the Computer Graphics Show. I took the trade show job and the rest is history.
What advice would you give a new IAEE member or person joining the exhibitions community?
You get out of IAEE what you put into it. Get involved in the local chapter, attend annual meetings, join a committee and you will be afforded opportunities to learn, network and grow.
What is the biggest challenge in running your show, and why?
Our biggest challenge is proving ourselves. Many exhibitors wait until the 11th hour to sign up for our shows and others. Once you get them signed up, you need to show them you can give them year-round marketing exposure. Prove yourself and earn their trust and you will see your shows grow.
Tell us a fun fact or story that most people would not know about you.
I put myself through college by owning a DJ company.
Provide a testimonial about the benefits of being an IAEE member.
I would not be where I am today without IAEE. Getting involved early on in my career afforded me the opportunity to find several mentors including Rick Dobson, Chuck Schwartz and Lawson Hockman. All of them urged me to be active in the one industry association where all the major players converge.
Keep up to date with Eric and his shows at the following social media outlets: www.facebook.com/superpetexpo, www.facebook.com/homeshowexpo, @njhomeshow, @superpetexpo, @ericudler
Great to read this fact filled article, and I was on the receiving side of that first job during those early trade show years. I was always impressed on the professional manner in which Eric approached me and my team along with the follow up that was promised. These two factors played a large role in his success then and I’m sure now.
Keep smiling my friend!
J. Ward