Attending a trade show that covers your industry can be a valuable experience for a business. You’re able to gain a lot of great information about your industry, gain information about competitors, gain new industry contacts for future partnerships, and above all else, gain new clients. Trade shows can be extremely beneficial if you prepare yourself before going with tools and tactics on how to approach interactions during the show. Below are a handful of tips that you can use to help get yourself ready for the big day and make sure you’re putting your best foot forward.
Tip #1: First Impressions Are Truly Everything
Studies show that your first impression has a high correlation with the actual long-term status of your relationship. There’s not much time for you spare on your initial presentation either.
Our first opinion of someone forms in only one-tenth of a second.
Not surprisingly, we see similar results when someone’s first impression is of a brand. It takes only one-fifth of a second to form an opinion of a website and 94% of that opinion is design related.
Not all companies have a big budget, but one thing that should never be left to chance is your trade show exhibit’s design. Make your exhibit stand out.
Tip #2: Be Approachable
In addition to having that ‘right look’ and appealing design, your booth should be approachable. Smiling faces of professional booth attendants are important.
Have a variety of different display options to appeal to different people. Some people like flyers, pamphlets, and reading materials.
Other attendees are visual and would like to see a video demo on an HD screen or tablet.
Many will want to engage with the booth staff and ask questions. Make sure that plenty of booth staff is available at all times.
Tip #3: Utilize Pre Trade Show Marketing Practices
There are many effective ways to reach attendees before the show opens. Try reaching out on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. You can share teaser videos, special messages from staff members and exciting previews of booth activities. Make sure to give attendees an enticing reason to stop by your booth.
Additionally, it important to set up a marketing campaign plan that includes promotional emails and media outreach. Consider speaking during a workshop session to give your small business extra exposure and feature the session your pre-show campaign.
Tip #4: Network, Network, Network
Small businesses are already pros when it comes to networking! However, trade shows move quickly, so it can be easy to become so wrapped up in working the booth that you forget the importance of connecting.
Networking is one of the greatest benefits of attending a trade show, so be prepared to talk with attendees and answer any questions they might have. Bring business cards and a portfolio, so you can present during conversations.
Additionally, it can be a good idea to befriend nearby vendors, industry professionals, and other small business owners. This can work to build quality connections that last long after the trade show is over.
Tip #5: Offer Specials To Show Attendees
Make sure to highlight your show specials so that buyers know that they need to buy at the show in order to receive the discount or special offer. Make sure your show special is posted and very clear.
Getting the attention of trade show attendees is critical to an exhibitors’ success, and having happy exhibitors is the key to a high renewal rate for organizations hosting trade shows. Utilize these tips to help ensure success for all involved.
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