Once you’ve launched your business and you’re looking to get out there in the marketing world, you’re likely going to be hitting up conventions, trade shows, exhibitions, or conferences. These professional gatherings are a great place for you to meet potential customers or clients. It’s a wonderful opportunity for you… oh and for your competition too. If you want to keep attention on your business, you have to work hard to separate yourself from the other displays and booths. Follow some of our helpful tips for beginners and let us know how your first trade show experience went!

Plan the Budget and Stick with It

You’re not sure how this event will go, as this is the first one. You don’t want to invest too much into one thing, because you’re not sure what will and will not be a success. This is your year to test the waters. Plan budget friendly gifts and expenses, and take the time to learn what your crowd wants and what makes people convert.

Get to Know the Crowd

Consider the demographics and get to know your audience. When you can know what gets people excited, it’s easier to grab their attention. If someone leaves your booth and passes by later, be sure to reconnect with him or her. Obviously, you don’t want to harass the person if it’s clear they’re not interested, but people do respond well to being remembered. It’s subconscious flattery and it works.

Set up to Match your Brand

Obviously, you cannot control the color scheme of the venue, but if you can choose an area that reflects your business color scheme well, go for it. Moreover, you can bring your own accents and décor to help improve the branding at your booth, tent, or display.

It’s Okay to Be Over Prepared

Check the electrical outlets twice, and count all supplies several times. Bring backup supplies, and have backup employees readily available if needed. If you get a rush of people at your tent, you do not want to turn anyone away, and you certainly don’t want to learn about electrical problems when you’re trying to display a product.

Leave an Impression

While your product or service is perfect for someone, that person might not remember every single booth he or she visited – so its your job to make sure that doesn’t happen. Keep yourself on the mind with take home “swag” (stuff we all get). “Swag” often comes in the form of pens or T shirts with the company logo and name.
 
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