Trade show season is upon us, y’all, and there’s no escaping it.
In fact, statistics show that 82% of trade show attendees have buying authority, and that 77% of executive decision makers found at least ONE new supplier at the most recent trade show they attended.
Those numbers are staggering, and they cannot be ignored.
That being said, you can’t just go waltzing into a trade show and expect to draw people’s attention and become the king of the crowd – that’s just not how it works. Your trade show booth has to be attention-grabbing, original and different from everyone else.
Trade shows are a chance for you and your business to shine, and they’re the perfect opportunity for you to show potential customers why they should choose YOU over the competition.
Now – just how do you do that?
1. Trade Show Displays and Signage
Trade show displays help you and your business Make the right impression™ right from the very beginning. Most of the time, trade show displays are the very first thing attendees will see, therefore making sure you have an attention-grabbing display is more than just important – it’s necessary. Your display should be large in size, and it should accurately depict your brand and business. A display like this one is not only large enough to demand attention, but it’s also completely customizable, AND it comes equipped with everything from a pop-up frame to graphic end panels.
2. Giveaways, Giveaways and More Giveaways
You know that promotional products are a must when it comes to trade shows, but you need to make sure that the promotional products you decide to bring along are items that your attendees will actually WANT. Creative giveaway ideas are the key to getting more traffic to your booth, as well as the key to retaining the attention of your attendees long after they’ve left the show. Items like custom sunglasses make perfect trade show giveaways because they’re efficient and practical, especially during the summer months. Custom flash drives are also popular among trade show attendees, and they’re also good for you because you can upload any documents or company information to the drive before giving them out to your prospects. That’s called taking advantage of hidden marketing gems!
The one thing to remember about trade shows is that they’re in-person and real-time events. This is the one time – and it could be the ONLY time – for you to make a good first impression on the attendees who approach your booth. Having a chic and professional look for yourself and your colleagues is key to giving you and your business that buttoned-up look and feel. Remember – trade shows are a time for you to have a good time and show your brand’s personality, but it’s all about one thing at the end of the day: driving more business. Button up, straighten your tie or skirt, and get out there and Make the right impression™.
Technically, these items could fall under the giveaways section, but we decided to give them their very own space due to their sheer importance. When you give away custom bags and totes at trade shows, you are doing so much more than just providing attendees with a simple bag – you’re essentially making those attendees your very own personal brand ambassadors. Think about it. They’re going to put all of their trade show goodies in that bag – YOUR bag – and then they’re going to carry that bag with them everywhere they go for the rest of the day. That means your brand and your logo will be making its rounds, too, guaranteeing optimal exposure and mileage.
5. Personality
Okay, we know this isn’t something you can buy and set up at your next trade show, but it’s still important nonetheless. Your personality and attitude is everything when it comes to making your trade show booth inviting and exciting for attendees. People will be more willing to make their way to your exhibit if you and your team are smiling and conversing with attendees. The whole point here is to make your attendees feel welcome and comfortable when they’re at your booth.
Trade shows are some of the best forms of marketing for your business, and when they’re executed correctly, they can drive brand recognition, leads and eventually sales.
So keep these five winning secrets in mind next time you’re gearing up for a trade show and you’ll be sure to Make the right impression™.