Live events are slowly returning across the U.S. which includes the rise of trade shows. The trade show you have been planning for is now here and you’re likely searching for the best ways to attract potential customers and boost sales.
Your booth or exhibit area only has a split second to capture the attention of prospects and potentially begin a new relationship with them. This doesn’t have to be a daunting task, but instead an opportunity to make an impact and potentially find new customers.
Every Trade Show Exhibit Starts With A Plan
Preparation for your trade show all begins with solid planning. Before you book your flight and hotel arrangements, develop a plan on how you will:
- Develop and distribute marketing materials.
- Create interesting and impactful signage.
- Notify potential customers and clients of your attendance through email, social media or direct mail.
- Schedule appointments with potential customers on site at the trade show.
- Follow up with appointments set that will take place after the trade show.
First impressions are key. Your display and point of purchase materials/messaging will attract people to your booth. Take the time to build it with impact and purpose. Ask yourself “would I stop and see what this company is about?” What sorts of things have you seen competitors or other vendors do that you thought were creative and interesting?
Coordinate with your team to develop an overall action plan on key items such as your booth design and marketing materials that will be included in the booth. Be sure to develop your messaging and call to action when visitors come to your booth.
Prepare Your Booth Display
Whether you plan on using a single large backdrop or multiple banner displays, make sure you create context and texture to attract visitors. Large backdrops and banners make for very important assets at your trade show. Retractable banners are convenient for smaller displays because they are easy to transport, set up and fold up after the trade show. Banners help convey your visual message and can help your booth stand out on a busy trade show floor.
Eye-catching high-resolution graphics will ensure you attract attendee interest and display your message boldly. Remember, if graphic design is not your strength, find a team that specializes in developing custom graphics and posters or signage for your trade show display.
Prepare Your Marketing Materials For Display
The most significant way to complement your booth is through the use of marketing materials. Some companies limit how many printed materials they distribute at trade shows, remember you can convert some of your less tech-savvy customers with traditional printed materials such as brochures, spec sheets, or flyers. The right set of marketing materials will allow you to:
- Attract visitors to your booth and enhance engagement.
- Make a lasting impression beyond the trade show.
- Convey detailed information about your business on the spot.
Brochures and Booklets
As you set up your display, be sure to make use of printed items such as brochures or booklets. Brochures and booklets allow for a simple way to communicate your business' mission, vision, and product or service descriptions. Print enough brochures to accommodate the flurry of visitors who visit your booth but also consider emailing a PDF version to visitors after the show. With help from reliable print and marketing partners, you are sure to get memorable printed brochures or booklets. The distribution of brochures or booklets will also ensure your message goes beyond the trade show.
Business Cards
Don’t leave your business cards at home! This is the most basic form of trade show marketing. Make sure you have plenty of professionally printed business cards that contain your contact information and social media handles.
Special Offer Postcards
A special offer postcard is a great way to drive on-the-spot sales. Printing unique offer postcards with offers such as a discount for every first purchase made or a thirty-minute free consultation or demo can assist in creating a flurry of visits to your trade booth.
Promotional Items
Don’t forget the swag! Bring branded, promotional items that make for fun or memorable giveaways. Pens, umbrellas, notepads, hats, or mugs are some of the more popular items businesses use as giveaways. When purchased in bulk, they are inexpensive and can help communicate your brand after a trade show has ended.
Let AlphaGraphics Help With Your Trade Show
Whether you’re hosting a raffle at your booth or broadcasting live on social media to attract visitors to your booth, your trade show exhibit success depends on proper planning and preparation. Contact with an experienced team to help guide you in the process and build creative solutions.
Not only can AlphaGraphics amplify your trade show presence, but we’ll manage the details so you can focus on your business. From planning, designing, and printing, to packaging and shipping, we’ll streamline the process for you. Contact us today.