But the truth is, we forget rapidly. If you feel uncomfortable about taking lots of notes while speaking with an exhibitor, jot down a brief word to remind you of each key point, then fill in all of the supporting material in the trade show aisle after leaving the booth. If you use that technique, you may find it helps to fill out your notes with the last thing you discussed first, then work backward in time. But for many people, the information is stacked like a box full of books. It's easier to start with the last book we put in.
Some people use tape recorders.
These can be much more efficient than note taking, although you need to transcribe them later, or assign the task to some else. They can intimidate some people with whom you talk, so be sure to ask permission first. If the person says no, take a few written notes. Then once you are back in the aisle, tell all that you remember to your tape recorder. Avoid jotting notes randomly on accumulated collections of glossy brochures.