EuroShop 2017

Steve Tustain – Seeing Germany through British Eyes (Part 2)

Jeff Hannah Interviews Steve Tustain – a British Man Living in Germany

In this episode, host Jeff Hannah interviews Steve Tustain of MDL Expo International GmbH. They discuss the separation between private and professional life in Germany, and building credibility with German colleagues. They discuss the Bavarian (Bayern) region of Germany and how business and mindsets differ there from some other regions of Germany. Steve talks about the looming issue of Brexit, how it might impact the UK as well Europe in general. Steve gives some fantastic advice to exhibit managers and event planners who are planning shows or events in Germany and throughout Europe.

Jeff also asks Steve about how he got started in this industry with his background in architecture.

Steve Tustain was born in the UK, and studied architecture at The University of Hull in Yorkshire, England. He also studied at the Sheffield Hallam University in the United Kingdom, before moving to Germany.

Jeff and Steve had overlapping tenures at Gielissen Interiors & Exhibitions, based in Eindhoven. Steve was based in Germany, where he has lived for more than 20 years now. He has broad global experience and works across multiple industries for many recognized brands. Steve Tustain is currently the Sales Manager for MDL Expo International GmbH, based near Frankfurt.

Be sure to listen to Part 1 of this interview with Steve Tustain.

This interview was recorded in Dayton, Ohio.

MDL Expo International GmbH

Steve Tustain LinkedIn English

Steve Tustain LinkedIn Germany

Email: steve.tustain@mdl-expo.com

EuroShop 2017

Steve Tustain – Seeing Germany through British Eyes (Part 1)

Jeff Hannah Interviews Steve Tustain – a British Man Living in Germany

In this episode, host Jeff Hannah interviews Steve Tustain of MDL Expo International GmbH. They discuss how exhibits should be designed differently for Germany, and how the exhibit may be used different in Europe than in other places such as in the USA. Steve emphasizes the importance of pre-show planning and promotion in order to reach the audience you want to have. They also talk about preparing to meet with – and negotiate with – German business people. And Steve shares his views on how in-booth activities such as engagements, gamification and gimmicks are viewed by Europeans.

Steve delves deeper into the mind of the German with his views on how people desire to be perceived by others, especially in the business world. Competence is important. But, pride and being too “showy” with success can quickly backfire when trying to connect with someone from Germany.

Jeff also asks Steve to share how his life is different in Germany in comparison to his upbringing in Great Britain.

Steve Tustain was born in the UK, and studied architecture at the University of Hull in Yorkshire, England. He also studied at the Sheffield Hallam University in the United Kingdom, before moving to Germany.

Jeff and Steve had overlapping tenures at Gielissen Interiors & Exhibitions, based in Eindhoven. Steve was based in Germany, where he has lived for more than 20 years now. He has broad global experience and works across multiple industries for many recognized brands. Steve Tustain is currently the Sales Manager for MDL Expo International GmbH, based near Frankfurt.

Be sure to listen to Part 2 of this interview with Steve Tustain.

This interview was recorded in Dayton, Ohio.

MDL Expo International GmbH

Steve Tustain LinkedIn English

Steve Tustain LinkedIn Germany

Email: steve.tustain@mdl-expo.com