Leave a Lasting Impression at a Trade Show or Conference

Showcase your business in a memorable way at the next trade show or conference you attend. These events are excellent opportunities to network and attract potential clients, so it’s important to make a good impression. Keep reading for some easy yet effective ways to get noticed.

Prepare in Advance

Preparation is key when it comes to making an impact at trade shows. As soon as you decide to attend the event, it’s time to start planning. Think about what you’d like to offer at your booth, whether it’s literature about your business, an informative video, or an interactive demonstration. You might also want to start thinking about what kind of promotional gifts to give out. It’s a good idea to research what your company’s competitors have done at previous trade shows. While you don’t want to copy them, you can certainly gain some inspiration and look for aspects to improve on.

Hire a Designer

Part of prepping for the event is designing what you want your exhibit to look like. Although you could go simple with a folding table and a sign or two, you’ll get more attention with a colorful display that’s professionally designed. Some companies specialize in creating trade show exhibits that get results.

If you’re the DIY type, you can create the look of a professionally designed booth by having colorful company banners, signs, and other promotional items printed and displayed. Make sure you go with a color scheme for your booth that matches your business logo for the most professional appearance.

Get the Word out

It’s important to let people know about the event, and one way to do this is with social media. Create a post or tweet that tells followers when and where the event is and what to expect. Invite them to visit your booth and entice them to do so with an incentive, such as free samples or other products. You can even email the people you’d like to see at the event and invite them personally. Don’t just announce the event once and expect people to remember—post several reminders in the weeks leading up to the event to generate buzz and make sure attendees remember to visit your booth.

Give out Swag Bags

The free merchandise that’s given out is one reason people attend these events, so make sure your business has promotional items that make a splash. Some of the most common items at trade shows are customized pens, coffee mugs, hats, and T-shirts. While there’s nothing wrong with giving out these items to booth visitors, your business can be even more memorable with promo products that are different from the competition.

For example, you could give something sporty, such as a set of branded golf balls. If the event is being held in the summer, consider giving out customized beach towels. Even tech items such as charging pads are a relatively unique option. Or, you could create an entire swag bag by filling a branded canvas tote bag with promotional products. Not only can the recipient use the items inside, but they can also make use of the bag instead of having to throw it away.

Treat Booth Visitors to Refreshments

At some shows, you can choose to serve food and beverages to booth visitors. Many establishments have their own craft services that attendees can hire. Some trade show venues may allow you to bring your own refreshments; check ahead of time to make sure you’re clear on the rules. Free food and drink at your booth can be the incentive a person needs to stop by; and when they do, you can talk to them about your business. Before they go, give them a business card and a small promo item—such as a branded pen or company logo cup so they’ll remember you.

Host an Afterparty

The trade show isn’t the only opportunity to get attention for your business. Celebrate the event and its attendees by holding an afterparty. Such an event provides trade show guests an opportunity to relax and unwind while socializing and making business connections. You’ll want to book the party locale as far in advance as possible, and it’s also important to send announcements about the event ahead of time. When you interact with people at the trade show, invite them to attend. Hosting a trade show afterparty provides you additional time to network and attract potential clients, and it makes your business memorable.

Project a Professional Appearance and Positive Attitude

These are just some of the ways you can make a favorable impression at a trade show. Hold a meeting with your staff and brainstorm other ideas for getting your business noticed. Your team represents your business, so instruct them to greet every booth visitor with a warm greeting and a smile. Make sure everyone is wearing custom uniform work attire that are embroidered with your company name and logo. Finally, make sure you and your staff have an enthusiastic attitude. If you feel good about what your company has to offer, so will your potential clients and business partners.