Things are quiet now, but it will not be long before trade show season is upon us once more! December is a superb time to finish preparing all the fine details of your event. In the end, a trade show presence isn't cheap, but a well-executed show can have remarkable returns on your investment.
Crowded show halls are par for the course, but trade show success is determined by setting your organization apart from the competition with an eye-catching booth and display.
Prior to the show, get in touch with your leads. Create a contact plan to let your leads know where and when they can visit your booth. Sign up for the LinkedIn group for your show, and connect to other participants there. Don't wait until the last minute to begin marketing!
Posting information and hooking up with possible leads will be the ultimate goal of any trade show, so ensure that your business credit cards, brochures, marketing collateral, and other displays are in great condition prior to going.
Following the trade show, your work has merely begun. Make a plan to nurture your new leads with email promotions, special deals, and personal follow-up once the show is over. Your fellow participants were surely overwhelmed by the amount of companies and serivces they came across, so take the time to point out to them who you are and just why they should use your products or services. Then repeat a couple weeks later.
Catching up with your public expo leads is an essential piece of the exhibition process. Regardless of whether you send an email, request to connect on LinkedIn, or request a followup phone call, you need to ensure your organization is top of mind. Follow-up as quickly as you can, ideally the following day. On the off chance that you anticipate sending an email or LinkedIn request, personalization is key; use their first name, and delight them with your excellent customer service and follow up.
Customized promo items, for example, tote sacks, pens, scratch pads, apparel, etc. are a sure fire way to stand out enough to be noticed, and also increase the likelihood of your business to remain on their brains long after the show is finished.
Do you need help planning and designing your booth? Trade Show Display Pros can help! See all of the trade show displays we have to offer to help you stick out from your competition. We can also help you choose products and materials that will best meet your needs. If you frequently exhibit at trade shows, be sure to invest in products and materials that are durable and lasting.