Did you know it costs about $259 to meet a prospect at their office, but only $142 if you meet them at a trade show? That’s some serious savings!
But to make a trade show really pay off, you need to plan in advance. Check out our trade show ideas to maximize booth traffic and get the biggest bang for your buck.
Build Buzz Before The Event
To get people excited about your trade show booth, start promoting early. Here’s how:
- Chat with potential trade show attendees on Instagram, Facebook, X, and other social media platforms.
- Write some informative blogs and social media posts about what you’ll be doing at an upcoming trade show.
- Add a small note in your email signature about the event.
- Share some special discounts that’ll be available at the show.
- Ensure potential customers know where to find you.
- Follow the organizer’s social media accounts and share their posts.
- Send a newsletter to current and potential clients.
- Invite your customers to come to the show.
- Create or use an event hashtag.
Believe it or not, these actions will build excitement and draw more visitors to your booth.
Understand Your Audience
Don't aim to please everyone—it’s a losing game. Instead, identify your target audience and shape your approach to match their preferences.
Do your customers love flashy digital trade show displays? Go with bright colors, eye-catching visuals, and distinct sounds. Prefer a more relaxed atmosphere? Create a space with comfy seating and soothing colors.
See if you can get a registered attendees list before the event. Just make sure you follow the rules if you get one, i.e. don’t spam everyone.
Look for current customers on the list, as they’re great for sales and referrals. Contact them to set up a meeting or invite them to enjoy special perks.
Offer Irresistible Deals
People love freebies and deals at trade shows. Create a sense of urgency by offering special prices for purchases made at the event.
Also, you can hand out discount codes at your booth that are valid for a limited time after the show; these will help you track sales linked to the event.
Use Cool Tech
Interactive tech, like tablets, touchscreens, and digital signs are great at grabbing attention. Head-turning displays can encourage social media shares that give you free publicity—isn’t that cool?
Also, visitors can fill out a survey or participate in a contest using an interactive screen. But they’ll have to provide their email address for a chance to win a gift.
Smart Booth Layout
Finally, your booth layout matters a lot, whether you’re in a prime location or not. What’s the first thing people see when they enter your booth? Are they entering from the side or from the front?
Use lighting strategically. Proper lighting can direct attention and draw people in. Spotlight new products to add some drama. Use lamps to create a warm, inviting feel. Also, lights in display cases will make your products stand out.
If it’s your first trade show, consider hiring an expert to set up your booth. Because pros know how to make the most of lighting, visuals, and trade show displays, give them a shot.
Final Thoughts
Don’t forget: it’s not just about flashy lights and cool gadgets (though they are fun). It's about creating meaningful interactions and lasting impressions.
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