IMS 2014 hits Tampa Bay on June 1-6, 2014, and I bet you will be there. One of the largest industry events, the show is a must visit. This year it will be my 23^rd IMS – wow!

If you’d ask: what has changed over the last 20 years? I believe the show today is more personal. With social media becoming commonplace in our industry, we’re more connected and we can build stronger relationships without borders.

My first trip to IMS show took place when I attended college. Back then going to IMS was a great way to finally meet long-distance clients and partners in person. Nowadays, we are so connected via social media, it’s so much easier to stay in touch and keep building relationships over time. Today you can go to IMS, meet new people, learn about each other, and then continue to stay in touch virtually.

MW Journal has done a terrific job fostering social media networks for the industry community. RF and Microwave community on LinkedIn has over 22,000 members and growing. It’s a place to meet industry experts, ask your toughest questions, and get feedback on new projects and ideas. You can easily start building relationships before the trade show, connect in person, and continue the conversation via online networks.

The IEEE MTT-S is offering many ways to stay in touch. On Twitter, tune into #ims2014 to receive the latest show updates. You can find and share information about upcoming technical sessions, company news, networking opportunities, and much more! After the show, it’s easy to continue on-line discussions with prospects and partners you met at the show.

So, lets meet up and stay connected! Wishing everyone a great and productive time at the IMS 2014. See you there!

 Jaime Leger is Founder/Partner at Sheppard Leger Nowak Inc. leger@slnadv.com