5 Things You Can Do To Improve Your Experience
 
Trade shows have returned more robust for 2022. Big names like NRF (Retail’s Big Show) have already completed their runs for the year and the number of shows for the remainder of the year is about to hit its height. The recent scarcity of these types of events means that each exhibitor must maximize their time and resources through preparation to put their business in the best place to succeed.
 

1. Marketing

There are three stages to trade show marketing; pre-show, at the event, and follow up. Prior to the show starts, send booth invites to all companies and decision makers likely to attend. This can be done through email, social media, direct mail, online ads, and more. During the show, be as active as possible on every social media platform the event promotes. In addition, tag each post with their unique hashtag(s) and handle. qualify each of the business cards you collect and contact right away after the show. Create a series of follow up campaigns to contact the attendees you met, anyone you did not have a chance to meet, and any company that could have attended.

2. Research Your Leads

It’s important to research your leads before you go to the show. Narrow down the companies you are hoping to speak to and identify the contacts within that company that will get you what you need. In the hectic environment of a trade show, it can be difficult to keep track of all those different names and titles without the information in front of you. CSG can help alleviate this issue by accessing vital company and personnel info directly on your mobile device. Having this tool at your fingertips makes it easy to refresh yourself on a potential client before you make your pitch.

3. Know Your Product

When you do get the chance to speak to a qualified contact, make sure you have proper product collateral prepared, such as sell sheets, catalogs, and pricing information. Have your pitch ready and know which of your products you want to focus on for each potential buyer. Be ready to answer questions about your the transparency of your supply chain. Having your best product on display is a good way to attract a variety of clients and increase the chances of a sale.

4. Health & Safety

Even though trade shows have returned to an in-person venue, there are still health concerns to consider. Some states require proof of vaccination for all attendees and require advance notice of vaccination information and face coverings and social distancing will be required at certain venues. Even where it is not required, it would be appropriate for exhibitors to make accommodations available for those who desire it. If you are offering giveaways, then ensure they are individually wrapped if possible. A good idea would be to offer hand sanitizers at the table and provide branded masks. This promotes good will and keeps your company at the top of their mind.

5. Be Visible

It’s easy to get lost in the crowd at a trade show and make sure you have a strategy to seen. If you are exhibiting, be sure to have a booth with clear signage that reflects what your business offers. If you have giveaways, make sure they are memorable, and everything has your brand. Another way to make your products stand out is through demonstrations or to offer free samples. Lastly, be attentive to the people walking by and strike up conversations with as many attendees as possible. Remember, each new conversation is a potential future client.

To connect with the decision makers and research the companies that did and did not attend, Chain Store Guide provides marketing lists containing the data necessary to reach your target audience. CSG’s has been the tool used for years by thousands of exhibitors to reach show attendees and many of the trade shows themselves use our data to invite buyers & decision makers to attend their events. Contact your Account Manager today to start your trade show preparations. 1-800-927-9292