Exhibitor Trade Show Tips
Have you ever attended an exhibit, trade show, job fair or event with various booths throughout the venue? I’m sure you saw some really great booths and some that looked like they were thrown together in a few seconds. Am I right? Which booth were you the most drawn to and most likely to stop by and visit? We are all guilty of “judging a book by its cover” at some point in our lives and this happens more often than most would like to admit.FIRST IMPRESSIONS ARE EVERYTHING – no, really. Did you know that you have an average of three seconds to make an impression?
The point of exhibiting at any business showcase is to draw in as many potential customers as possible, but it can be done in a variety of ways without having to spend the “big bucks” to make your booth bigger and better than the rest. You want quality over quantity and below are 10 tips for effective trade show planning that can help you decide what best fits your business and its bottom-line.
Choose the right types of displays
Tabletop displays are often blocked by people’s height. If using a table display, try to utilize overhead lighting to draw attention to your display and stand out.
Monkey See, Monkey Do
Social proof generates trust.
Seeing other people engaged with a brand makes them want to see what the buzz is all about. Get other employees into the show and have them surround your booth dressed as attendees.
Have people interact with your exhibit and staff, but make sure there are always employees available to engage with potential customers.
Extend Your Reach / Use Promotional Giveaways
These are great because the more people you get to wear them; the more others will want one. It’s also a great conversation starter for attendees- and your brand and booth are inserted into that conversation.
Check out this article to find the best giveaways tied to your message and/or brand. Need to purchase promotional items? Find a Lubbock Chamber member here.
Tricks of the Trade
This is one of the best trade show booth tips in terms of ROI. You’ll instantly double your sales opportunities.
I don’t suggest trading contacts with direct competition, but partner with brands selling different products and services that happen to have the same target market.
Let them Interact
I know not all brands are easy to display, but figure out a unique way to allow your booth traffic to interact with your products or services.
Create an Experience
Stop Selling!
Don’t have your staff sell your product unless they are interested in it. The way you gain interest is by being interested in others first.
Ask questions about their company and where they came from first. Almost every time they will follow up by asking you the same. It’s much more natural than introducing your brand after you’ve introduced yourself.
Create a “buzz” – Utilize Social Media
Create the “WOW” factor
Follow up FAST
People have many interactions at trade shows. As much as you want to believe yours were different, it’s tough to remember everyone’s name and product after the show.
Don’t be afraid of reaching out too quickly. Typically wait one day after the show to follow up with potential prospects. Waiting too long will dilute the connection.
This article will help you accomplish this daunting task.
Remember: You have an average of three seconds to make an impression on an attendee. Make sure you captivate them and don’t make them work too hard. Convey a clear message and design your display wisely.
