Virtual trade shows certainly have their advantages. These targeted, cost-effective events work to replicate much of the physical trade show experience, including the opportunity for attendees to visit exhibit booths and interact with other attendees all while sitting in the comfort of their own office—a multi-tasker’s dream.
While virtual trade shows continue to gain in popularity, many companies still prefer the benefits of more personal, face-to-face meetings. Many believe that live conferences and events are the best way to build stronger, more lasting relationships with current customers and prospects. If you’re planning on making the investment to exhibit at a few live shows this year, here are several pointers to help you get the most out of your tradeshow experience:
- Do your research: Find out if your competitors, customers and prospects will be there. If none of your key constituents are attending, chances are you don’t need to be there either.
- It’s not just about the booth: While it’s important to make your booth as enticing as possible, it can’t do all the work. It is up to the booth staff to be engaging and knowledgeable, and do their best to develop a relationship with booth visitors.
- Know your company’s elevator pitch: You will have a very limited amount of time to talk about your company and product, so come armed with a clear and concise elevator pitch and call to action.
- Show, don’t tell: Attendees are talked at all day long, so exhibitors should make their booth space as entertaining and interactive as possible. Allow attendees to customize their own experience. Have self-led demo stations where representatives are available for a more general overview if requested. Also try to incorporate videos that will generate excitement.
- Have a seat: Walking the show floor can be exhausting. So, what’s more enticing than walking by a booth and seeing a comfy chair to sit in? Providing a cozy rest area, free treats (including water!) and a friendly booth representative who can provide a casual, no pressure environment to allow for better relationship building.
To summarize, make your booth an honorary member of your staff. Develop an exhibit strategy that ensures the booth is aiding your team in the best way possible. An organized, comfortable and interactive space will give your team the best advantage in attracting more visitors and helping to shed the best light possible on your company and brand.
Can you share some of your favorite trade show booth experiences?
