Trade Shows can be an excellent place to network, either with consumers or with other industry professionals. If it’s your first time exhibiting, however, you might be a little lost on some ways to make new connections. Never fear, we’ve compiled a few tips and tricks to maximize your tradeshow success.
Put In the Extra Time
If your venue allows it, try to spend some time before the event touring the floor before or after hours, not only get to know other vendors, but to familiarize yourself with the layout of the area as well. Visitors may ask you where things are located, and if you can help them you might earn some bonus points should they come back later. Befriending other professionals cannot only inform you on market trends, but can also help spread word of mouth. Additionally, it’s never a bad idea to make friends with the event staff, especially in case of any minor emergencies such as missing badges, car trouble, or other problems.
Have an Engaging Booth
Having an eye catching and functional booth is a big part of trade show success. Elements like a comfortable amount of floor space for foot traffic, an aesthetically pleasing and functional display back wall, and tailored flooring and interactive booth elements are all good ideas to engage with your audience. Take a look at similar past displays to see elements that seem to be working and consider how you might put your own twist on them. If you’re a little stuck on design or construction, hiring a tradeshow exhibit designer can help bring your vision to life. It’s worth it to do it right the first time.
Utilize QR Codes
Brochures and pamphlets can get a little expensive and are environmentally unfriendly and business cards remain one of the greatest ways to network professionally. But since more and more of the industry is moving online and more people are using smartphones, consider using QR codes as part of your display. Linking them back to relevant parts of your website makes directing traffic to your pages a breeze. These codes can be placed on business cards, banners, or any other flat surface. Consider giving them a try.
