AI, automation, and virtual platforms have transformed how we work. They’ve made business faster, more efficient, and more connected than ever. But even with all that innovation, there’s one place where digital tools can’t compete: the energy, momentum, and opportunity of a major in‑person event.
If you’ve ever walked the floor at CES—where Barrel O’Monkeyz’ Paul June was last week— you know exactly what that feels like. It’s not just a trade show. It’s a living ecosystem of ideas, partnerships, and opportunities—the kind of environment no Zoom room can replicate.
For growth‑minded companies, events like CES aren’t optional.
The Power of Being in the Room
Virtual meetings help maintain relationships. In‑person events help create them. For example, at CES, you’re surrounded by innovators, decision makers, investors, and potential partners who are actively looking for what’s next in tech. You’re not competing with a grid of muted faces on a monitor. In person, people don’t just hear what you do; they feel who you are. Those are the things that make you (and your brand) memorable.
1. Serendipity Happens in Hallways, Not Zoom
The most valuable conversations at in-person events rarely happen at the booth or in the expo.
They happen:
- In line for coffee
- Walking between sessions
- At after‑hours gatherings
- When someone overhears your conversation and says, “You know, you should meet…”
Those moments don’t exist in virtual environments. They’re the sparks that lead to partnerships, opportunity, and long-term connections.
2. You Can Read the Room — Literally
Body language. Tone. Curiosity. Hesitation. These cues are nearly impossible to catch on a screen. But in person, you can adjust your pitch, deepen the conversation, or shift direction based on what you see and feel. That’s how trust forms quickly and trust is the foundation of successful relationships.
3. Your Brand Becomes Tangible
On a screen, everyone looks the same. In-person, you and your brand can stand out.
People remember:
- Your handshake
- Your energy
- Your confidence
- Your ability to listen
- Your ability to connect
For companies competing for attention, memorability is a strategic advantage.
Technology Supports the Relationship
At Barrel O’Monkeyz, we use AI and digital tools every day. They help us prepare, follow up, and stay connected long after any type of event ends. They make our work sharper, faster, and more scalable.
But the spark? The trust? The momentum?
We still like that to happen face-to-face whenever possible.
The smartest companies aren’t choosing between digital and in‑person connections to maintain relationships. They’re using both approaches.
- AI to automate follow‑ups, recaps, and reminders
- Virtual meetings to maintain momentum between touchpoints
- In‑person events to build the relationships that make all of that digital communication more effective
What In-Person Events Like CES Unlock
For businesses ready to scale, major in-person industry events offer:
- High‑value introductions that just don’t happen online
- Access to decision makers who rarely take cold calls
- Visibility in a crowded, competitive landscape
- Access to strategic partnerships that accelerate growth
- Ability to get the pulse on emerging trends before they hit the mainstream
Simply put, you walk in with ideas … you walk out with opportunities.
Let’s Get Started
Whether it’s CES, a regional expo, or a local in-person business event, the companies that grow fastest are the ones willing to get in the room. So if you’re ready to grow your presence, sharpen your message, and turn conversations into momentum, Contact Barrel O’Monkeyz today by phone or email to schedule a free consultation. Together, we’ll explore your goals, develop a plan, finalize the details, and hit the ground running to turn ideas into action so you’re showing up where it matters most.
