Topnotch Ideas for Tradeshows

I saw this great article by Carol and wanted to share it with everyone. Check below for a short version of the article and see her web-site for the long version. If you need any help designing your tradeshow plan, call me and then Carol can do the logistics side of things. Thank you for the wonderful tips Carol!

Tips for the Trade Show Exhibitor
By Carol D'Alessandro (http://www.logisticsassoc.com)

Exhibiting at a Trade Show offers a unique and powerful selling opportunity; a unique opportunity to begin a relationship with your potential customers. We want you to have a successful and enjoyable Trade Show Experience and hope you will find the following tips helpful.
Tips for the Expert and (First Time) Trade Show Exhibitor
· Pre-show preparation
a. Write down your tradeshow goals
b. Attract qualified leads to your booth;
i. through direct invitations with free passes;ii. pre-show promotion "visit our booth for an opportunity to WIN ,"Dinner for Two"
At the Show: CLARITY, CLARITY, CLARITY
Clarity is the most important point. You want to make it very clear...∙
WHO you are; ∙
WHY you are there, and ∙
WHY someone would want to stop and talk to you.
Within 4-7 seconds of spotting your booth people should know exactly ∙ WHAT is in it for them, and∙ WHAT you do
· Create your own unique space... use a table top display or a large 10" X 10" format print image to use as a backwall
The job of the backwall is:a. To attract the attention of people passing by
b. To project an appropriate image for your company,
c. To impress people and provide a quick glimpse of what you offer
· Be creative; you want to people to look and say WOW!
· Keep it simple …you want to keep the set–up and take down to a minimum; this is another reason to purchase a proper display; portability and WOW at the same time.
· At many events you will be required to set-up the day before. Arrive at the event early. When you are sure your booth is ready take a walk around the event floor. Be your own critic…..Can your booth sign be spotted from across the room? Does your space shout…WOW!! or is it only a "whisper"? Does it look attractive, snappy and funky? Ask a fellow exhibitor's opinion. Does he know instantly who you are and what you do?·
Now that you've got people at your booth have a give-away (pens; caps; brochures, anything with your logo and contact info on it.)
· Have a gift basket for a door prize or if the door prize is a "Dinner for Two" you will want to have a large enough sign; and always have a fish bowl or somewhere for attendees to deposit their business card.
· Remember why you are there!
Good Luck!