Trade shows are designed to help you make a great impression and create opportunities for new business. You can make a lasting statement by exhibiting at a trade show, but it’s not without its careful planning.
Planning for a trade show is incredibly important if you want everything to go smoothly on the day!
Trade shows do require a set of skills from your staff to ensure it is a successful use of your time and resources. You can use trade shows to your advantage to build foundations for further business and relationships. If you’re looking to take your business to a number of trade shows this year, here are just a few tips.
Do your research
It’s crucial that you are looking at the right trade shows, or it could turn out to be a waste of time. Carrying out research prior to attending trade shows is a very helpful stage. You have the opportunity to ask clients what kinds of trade show they would be most interested in, while you can also ask colleagues or other organisations in your industry for their advice.
When it comes to the likes of brand awareness or lead generation, you want to make sure you are attending the right trade show! You might also want to look online for various trade shows; research their background and location to make sure the opportunities are feasible! This can also help you to get a better feel for the theme of the various trade shows out there.
Set your goals
When it comes to the desired outcome of exhibiting at a trade show, you should have a plan in place to help you get the most out of it. For many businesses, gaining new customers is high on the priority list. Depending on your company, or specific industry, your goals may include email sign ups or brand awareness in the form of handing out marketing material.
You might even find that you want to form partnerships with other organisations, or provide a platform for your customers to get to know your business a little better. Setting goals such as these can help you to target the right people and make sure you come back with results.
Design your stand
A trade show is the perfect opportunity to really put your company out there, complete with a face to the name. But, as is the nature with trade shows, everyone else is trying to do the same thing. If you’re battling with competitors, you need to plan your stand so that you get a heavier footfall and therefore more chance of a successful day.
Ideally, you need an impressive representation of your business for your stand. From the colour scheme to memorable giveaways, you need a plan of action for making sure attendees remember exactly who you are. Knowing your audience is key here, especially if you’re planning on giving away promotional merchandise.
This gives you the chance to give away something that is useful, relevant and maybe even a little quirky. One of the most effective ways of advertising your business, promotional merchandise is always a huge hit at trade shows.