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7 Must Haves For Your Next Trade Show

Posted by Laura Olvera on Mar 23, 2016 7:30:00 AM
Laura Olvera
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You have a great product, industry knowledge, and a reservation for a booth at an upcoming trade show. What else could you possibly need? It turns out, you need a lot to stand out among the rest of the booths if you want to gain leads and turn those into sales. Here we list 7 must haves for your next trade show:

1. A theme that makes sense

Visitors to your trade show should be able to figure out the basics of who you are as a company based on your booth design including signage and booth set up. Your theme should be at least somewhat based on what your company/product is or does. A professional exhibit designer can take your company/product and turn it into an effective trade show booth design.

2. Appropriate use of special effects7_Must_Haves_For_Your_Next_Trade_Show_1.jpg

There's usually no need for a fog machine and blaring speakers, so don't go overboard with the special effects. On the flip side, there's a risk in using too little AV or other effects. If your booth would demonstrate from some music, then set up a speaker. If a projection would enhance the visitors' experience and understanding of your product, then by all means, use one. Just don't try to do everything or you'll overwhelm visitors who won't know which way to look. 

3. Freebies that people actually want

It's a universal truth that people love free stuff, and they'll happily accept free stuff whether or not it's related to your product. Stand out at your next trade show by offering complimentary water, coffee, or snacks (something somewhat substantial, not just candy). You can customize labels to include your company name as a way to ensure people remember who the great booth was that offered them bottled water.

4. A well-known spokesperson

In addition to free stuff, people also love meeting celebrities. Hiring a famous spokesperson for your trade show booth will draw attention from people who might not have otherwise taken a second glance at your booth. Think about someone who has some connection to your company, whether it's a geographical or brand connection. The celebrity doesn't need to be an A-list movie star, but could be a professional sports player or even a local newscaster. 

5. Raffles and giveaways 

Offering a raffle or giveaway is another great way to get noticed by trade show attendees. Announce your raffle in pre-trade show marketing materials and brochures, or include your raffle in the program. Make sure the prize is something that's worthwhile for the winner(s) to add buzz around your booth now and at future trade shows.

6. Hands-on demonstration area

Give people a chance to test your product in your trade show booth. If your product is something that requires some space to use, plan your booth design accordingly. People like to try items before they think about investing their money in them, and trade shows can be a great way to let people experiment with your product in a no-risk environment.

7. Ample staffing

Running a trade show booth can be exhausting, and you don't want to miss out on a sale or a lead because you were sitting in the corner trying to take a break. Make sure you have enough hands on deck to meet with visitors while keeping up their energy and enthusiasm for your brand or product. 

Are you ready to take your trade show booth to the next level? Incorporate these seven ideas into your next trade show for a more engaged and enthusiastic visitor experience. To find out more about must haves for your next trade show, including how Sonas Marketing can help you with them, contact us today

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Tags: Trade Shows