My team and I love to visit tradeshows, even when you’re not exhibiting yourself, you have the opportunity to network, meet some head haunchos and see the latest and greatest techniques and products out there (plus keep an eye on the competition!). Just incase you need a little push though – here’s 10 great tips for your next exhibition.

1. Find a New Show – Find one that isn’t directly related to your business, but still in your market. One of the stand-out examples is Nordic Track had a huge success at a dental tradeshow, leaving the fitness expos and meeting health-related individuals and still the correct demographic.
2. Ask Around – Maybe you’re missing some golden opportunities in exhibiting, talk to businesses, local affiliations and colleagues who have attended several tradeshows, and have them guide your exhibit attendance decision.
3. Focus on Quality –Invest in the right shows, and skip over the shows that don’t make sense. It’s your job to pick the ones that reach your target market and the people that make those final decisions.
4. Create a Buzz – Use social media, pre-show postcards, email blasts and other techniques to build up some interest in your booth before the show. Try using contact lists from the organizations hosting the event or from your past exhibits.
5. Don’t Exhibit, Attend – Not in your budget to attend this year? Looking to save the money for another show? Capitalize on your opportunity to network at the next show or even look to becoming a speaker or panel expert, what better way to attract leads?
6. Partner with the Management Team – Good tradeshow organizers will help your business become a success, so that you come back next year, check with them for marketing opportunities, exhibitor lists and other resources they may make available
7. Train your staff – Make sure your staff is prepared and have some clear goals in mind. It’s important that they know how to work the crowd efficiently with your booth’s success in mind. Don’t forget that dressing for success and looking the part plays a big role.
8. Call them while they’re HOT – 79% of leads never get followed up with. Something as simple as a Thank You card can significantly increase your chances of gaining a new customer.  Other ideas: Personal Letters, branded gifts and personalized brochures.
9. Look around – While you’re exhibiting, take some time and discover what’s going on at the tradeshow. See what competitors are pushing, as well as what potential clients are looking for. Listen to the speakers and panels for added insight.

And the most important:

10. Stay Unique – You know why your company is better than the competition, so make sure your new potential clients do too. Whether it’s giving a quirky gift that gets the point across, a brochure that seals the deal, an interactive digital display or a strong, smiling team that gets your booth visited, your new clients will see and understand that you are their new best resource, whatever you’re selling.

My team has all these resources to make your next tradeshow a success, so if you’re looking for Pre-, Post- or During show tactics, let us help you create a buzz and develop a unique tradeshow experience.

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