How to Safely Get Back to in-Person Events During COVID-19

If you’re feeling nervous about going back to in-person industry events while COVID-19 is still running rampant, then know that you’re not alone.

In a recent Plant Services article, Lori Ditoro, the former marketing manager for SEPCO, discusses relearning how to socialize after over a year and a half of strict quarantining and isolating due to the coronavirus pandemic that is still at large.

At Industry Events, Keep Mental Health — Yours and Others’ — in Mind

A self-proclaimed introvert, Ditoro mentions how she hadn’t attended an industry trade show or event since MARCON the weekend of March 10, 2020 — when COVID restrictions began.

“I haven’t been on a plane in more than 18 months, much less in a room with hundreds of people,” Ditoro wrote. “When comfortable in a situation, I’m talkative and extroverted. However, add discomfort or novelty, and I’m often quiet, awkward, and uncertain. So how can we introverts regain our comfort levels as we return to in-person events?”

To start with, the article recommends being aware of your own mental health as its related to the pandemic or not, as well as being sensitive toward the struggles of others.

Think about it. Most of us haven’t worn real clothes with buttons or zippers in well over a year, let alone walked into a crowded room with other industry members for the purpose of networking and sharing knowledge. (Talk about intimidating!)

“Remember, some people will be experiencing the same feelings and concerns that you are,” the article explains. “Go into your next event exhibiting the same care and compassion you want to receive, and they will likely be reciprocated.”

Take Extra Precautions

Additionally, it’s important to plan ahead so you know exactly what’s on the agenda and what to expect at these in-person events.

The bottom line is that with these open-minded approaches, as well as physical measures you can take to stay healthy like mask-wearing (if warranted) and frequent hand-washing, we can all embrace a bit of what life was like before COVID-19 and reenter the social world.

Check out Ditoro’s complete article on PlantServices.com to learn more.