Mastering Affiliate Summit West: Top 10 Strategies

Are you gearing up for Affiliate Summit West, ready to immerse yourself in the dynamic world of affiliate marketing? As you prepare for this exceptional event in Las Vegas, it’s essential to have a well-crafted plan to maximize your time, embrace unique experiences, and forge meaningful connections. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure you make the most of your Affiliate Summit West experience:

1. Preparation and Clear Goals:

Before diving into the bustling atmosphere of ASW, conduct thorough research on exhibitors, speakers, and attendees. Set clear objectives, whether it’s expanding your network, discovering new affiliate programs, or staying updated on industry trends. The exhibitor list will be on the ASW website 
(https://www.affiliatesummit.com/west) and the event app (to be released in December 2023).
The format of ASW is day 1 meet market followed by days 2 and 3 in the exhibition hall. The meet market is fast-paced, so I wouldn’t schedule lengthy meetings for this day as you’ve got plenty of time to do this on days 2 and 3.
Badge collection – I’d try to head down to collect your badge on the night before the meet market; this will avoid the big lines on the day. Remember to take some form of ID, and you can’t collect badges for your team members who decided to head to the casino.

2. Attend Relevant Sessions:

Create your schedule to attend sessions aligned with your goals. Take notes, engage with speakers, and participate in Q&A sessions to deepen your understanding of the latest trends and best practices.

3.Effective Networking:

Leverage networking opportunities from the moment you arrive. Schedule meetings in advance, explore the exhibit hall and meet market layout, and utilize the event app. I got one of my best ever ASW leads standing at the water fountain, but I’m not recommending you do this! The vertical meet-ups offer a great opportunity to meet people working in the same space.

4. Unwind at Monetise’s Favourite Spots:

When the day transitions into night, explore Las Vegas’s nightlife. Monetise recommends the Chandelier Bar in the Cosmopolitan for a good spot to unwind after a day at the show. For craft beer enthusiasts, the newly opened Brewdog offers a two-floor beer metropolis with great views of the strip. Consider mixing leisure with business at Top Golf, a fifteen-minute Uber ride from the show.

5. Efficient Lead Gathering with a Personal Touch:

As seasoned attendees entering our 6th Affiliate Summit West, we understand that the volume of conversations can be overwhelming, and losing your voice is probably going to happen. To streamline lead gathering, carry a basic notebook, a mini stapler, and jot down key details in your notebook. Staple the cards into your notebook alongside handwritten notes for an organized approach. The best bit about this is how easy and effective it makes the outreach for you or your colleague when you’re back in the office. I also find that taking awkward selfies with newfound connections and adding them on Skype immediately with a very brief note works well. Having said this, I once returned from ASW where I stapled a card into my notebook and simply wrote ’nice guy, supports Nottingham Forest.’

6. Embrace the Tourist Spirit:

While you’re at Affiliate Summit West, don’t forget that you’re a tourist in the vibrant city of Las Vegas. Take advantage of your time by considering a day trip to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon or the iconic Hoover Dam. If you visit the Hoover Dam, consider making a pit stop in Boulder City, a charming town with its own unique charm. While there, indulge in a Monetise must-do: a visit to the Chicken Shack. This low-key spot may serve the standard chicken wings and fingers, but its unassuming atmosphere adds a touch of authenticity to your culinary experience. It’s the perfect way to unwind and refuel before heading back to the lights of the Strip.

I almost forgot to mention, you might want to hop in an Uber and head to Fremont Street, the old Strip. Fremont Street is like the backstage party of the Las Vegas Strip – a place where people gather to create a spectacle that leaves you questioning whether you’ve accidentally stumbled into a parallel universe. You’re not just entering a street; you’re stepping into a dimension where you find yourself guessing what peculiar act or outlandish display will unfold next. On Fremont Street, ‘The Golden Nugget’ has been drawing crowds to downtown Las Vegas since it was built in 1946 as the largest casino in the world at the time.

7. Finding Food at the Conference:

The options within the immediate show vicinity can be limited, so it’s advisable to start your day with a substantial breakfast. Las Vegas hotels are notorious for their expansive layouts, so brace yourself for a trek just to find something to eat or drink. You can opt for an $899 VIP pass which allows you to do a grab-and-go breakfast and lunch.

8. RSVP Early for Evening Events:

Secure your spot early for premier networking events and parties. These exclusive gatherings fill up quickly, and timely RSVPs are crucial. Stay informed by joining Skype groups or monitoring LinkedIn posts, such as last year’s dedicated group at  https://join.skype.com/xQbJNVghjqC7.

9. Venue Location Note:

Keep in mind that Affiliate Summit West takes place at Caesars Forum Las Vegas, situated at the rear of the Linq Hotel. Avoid the misconception of a closer proximity if you’re staying at Caesars, which is a 30-45 minute walk away.

10. Essential Survival Items:

I asked some ASW veterans what they thought is a must-pack show item. In no particular order, they said a water bottle, mints, lip balm, comfy shoes, notebook, and a USB charger pack.