Trade shows are a useful marketing strategy that can lead to valuable results for in your business. Of course to achieve such results you need to go about things in the right way. Luckily, that is where this post comes in, so read on to find out all the tricks you’ll need to get the most out of your exhibition visit.
Have a plan.
Just like you do for anything else in your business, you will need to have a plan that governs your actions at the trade show. This plan should be worked out in plenty of time beforehand, so it allows your team to come up with activities, displays, and strategies that will best allow you to meet these goals.
In fact, if the show is more than a single day, it can be useful to get your staff together at the close of each session and review whether you have met these goals or not. Then you will be able to adjust things for the next day and ensure that you get the most value from your visit.
Show your brand in the best light.
Next, it is vital that your attendance at a trade exhibition shows your brand in the best light. One way to ensure this is to have a custom exhibition stand built. A stand that not only looks smart and professional but also provides you with the opportunity to entertain and educate your visitors on the unique selling proposition of your products. Remember that visitors will be inundated with information and so any way that you can make your booth stand out from the others is very valuable.
In particular, going beyond a traditional booth that offers only information, to one that has the opportunity for interaction and engagement is what many brands are now moving towards. What this means is where possible, interactive tech and fun games should be featured. Although, do makes sure there is a purpose behind these such as gathering information, opinions or contacts details otherwise you will be missing a trick.
Also when it comes to branding don’t forget how people love free stuff. Something that is borne out time and time again when visiting trade shows, as you will see thousands of people walking around with gift bags stuffed full of freebies.
To that end it’s always worth producing some promotional items, preferably ones that are slightly unusual or practical like memory sticks, beach towels, or wrist rests for the office. Then you will have a much higher chance of them being used and creating a positive association with your company.
Use every opportunity to network.
Last of all, a trick that you shouldn’t ignore when it comes to trade shows is to use this time to network with others in your industry.
Now, some businesses think they should only do this with those that fit their traditional demographic. However, there is also a lot of potential to make connections with those that could supply resources, services, and vital components to your company and vice-versa, so use your trade show time to connect with as many in your field as possible if you want to bring the most value to your business.
