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Trade shows

Trade shows are an excellent opportunity to attract and meet potential customers, learn industry trends, survey the competition and meet with potential suppliers and partners. This could be a great opportunity to advance your career so make sure you are fully prepared and use your time wisely! Here are some suggested tips for your next trade show.

 Identify Your Purpose:

There are several reasons as to why you might go to a trade show. Try and identify the main reason you are there as it will aid in your planning process.

Here are the most popular reasons to be at a trade show:

• Introduce a new product or service.
• Create awareness for your business.
• Convince people to try your service.
• Generate positive publicity.
• Increase sales
• Keep pace with the competition

Choose the right show:

Trade shows are expensive so make sure you do adequate research before committing to a particular show. Check whether your competitors will be there and if this specific show will result in the leads you are looking for. Once you decide on the right show, try and make your reservations as early as possible to increase your chances of getting a premiere spot.

How to Set Up Your Booth:

Try to make your signs attractive and noticeable. You are there to get noticed so try and set your booth up appropriately. Your booth should display your company's name and the service or products you offer.

Make Promotional Materials Available:

Have plenty of brochures, catalogs and info sheets available at your booth. Make sure you have necessary contact information readily available as well as order forms and credit card processing forms if you plan on making sales at the trade show.

Clever Ways of Attracting People:

Try to think of creative and original give-aways to have at your booth for potential customers. Make sure you have your product name and contact information on everything you hand out. If there are some potential customers or partners you really want to come to your booth, you can send them an invitation or a coupon ahead of time. The extra preparation will pay off!

Step Up to the Plate:

Now that you have everything set up ready to attract potential customers, don't sit back and relax during the show waiting for people to come. Try and stand most of the time and approach people as they are passing by.

Finally…Follow Up

After the show, it is important to follow up on the contacts you made during the show in a timely manner while visiting your booth is still fresh in the customers mind. You can follow up by sending a direct mail piece, making phone calls, or scheduling to meet the customer in person. Remember, most of the business you generate as a result of the show probably won't take effect until a few months after the show, so make sure you follow up and maintain customers' interest in your products or services.