5 Great Tips to Consider When Planning Your Next Trade Show

Connect Conveyor at Pack Ex Show, Toronto
Connect Conveyor at Pack Ex Show, Toronto

Exhibiting at a trade show can take up a big chunk of your marketing budget. Planning and following these 5 tips can help turn that risk into big rewards for your company.

1. Location – Prime spots can be hard to get and always get picked first. Because the best spots sell out fast, you should always try to select your spot early. Keep tabs on your next event by having google email you alerts by setting up a google alert here: https://www.google.com/alerts

2. Branding – The best booths are identifiable from close and far away.  Your companies logo should be prominently displayed and your messaging should be clear.  Try to avoid putting too much information on your displays and keep your points simple. Keep the detailed product information on your pamphlets and handouts. If it’s possible, hanging signage can dramatically increase your visibility from far away. You can find a few different shapes for hanging signage here: http://penguinexhibits.com/products/trade-show-displays/cloud-cover-hanging-banners

3. Design – Colour is an important part of your booth design. Use bright colours that compliment your brand to attract attendees to your booth. Using symmetry can also help bring people to your booth. Using proper lighting is crucial to stand out beside your competitors. A variety of trade show lighting for displays can be found here: http://penguinexhibits.com/products/accessories/clamp-lights

4. Takeaways – Some people prefer to read your pamphlets and handouts while others prefer to watch a video on a display or tablet. You should try to incorporate both handouts and video displays in your booth to appeal to a wide audience.  Takeaways also include promotional items. The best promotional items tie into your branding and are useful during or after the show.

5. Booth Host – A standing, smiling booth attendant is much more approachable than someone sitting behind a desk with their feet up. The best hosts are approachable and knowledgeable about their products. If you have multiple hosts, consider ordering matching attire to create a professional look.

Bonus Tip: Having a contest or giveaway can help you bring in more leads. Collecting business cards for a draw will give you critical information for following up like the role of the person within their company, their direct line and extension as well as email address to add them to your monthly newsletter.