8 Strategies for Successful Trade Show Planning

After working in the trade show industry for many years, we’ve learned some successful trade show planning strategies. Planning for a trade show is a big responsibility. If this is one of your first trade shows, it can feel especially overwhelming. Luckily, there are a few simple steps that will help you prepare for the big event. The more time you spend on the front end, the smoother the event will run.

 Here are eight easy but strategic trade show planning tips that will lead you to success.

1. Register Early for Events

Don’t delay in registering for events. Check out the trade shows that you want to attend and make your decisions early. This way, you can take advantage of early-bird pricing and have more options for your booth space. Also, early registration gives you more time to plan your exhibit.

2. Check Your Email Regularly

To keep you updated on the event, you’ll receive emails from the coordinators. You don’t want to miss this news, so check your inbox often. Some coordinators will even send tips and advice leading up to the event.

3. Reach Out to Attendees

The events you choose to attend are those that are relevant to your business in some way. You may even be able to get a list of attendees in advance from the show you’re attending. Look over this list and identify key people you want to talk to. Let them know in advance that you’ll be at the conference. 

4. Print Your Booth Number on Your Materials

Make it easy for people to find your exhibit by printing your booth number on all pre-marketing materials. Not only will attendees find you more easily but also you can increase qualified traffic this way.

5. Let Others Know You’re Attending the Event

Use social media to your advantage. Let people know that you’re attending the event and where they can find you. Incentives work well too, so don’t be afraid to offer a free item or goodie to the first X-amount of people who visit your exhibit.

6. Hire Enough Staff

Your booth should be properly staffed. The number of employees needed depends on the size of your exhibit and how big the event is. Also, consider that breaks will need to be taken to avoid fatigue. You don’t want too many employees on the floor, but you don’t want to be short either!

7. Incorporate Giveaways

People love getting free stuff, so incorporate promotional products into your marketing mix. Branded merchandise drives traffic to your exhibit and sets you apart from the competition. It also strengthens brand recognition after the event is over.

8. Design Your Exhibit

Your exhibit should be well-designed and align with your trade show goals, whether it’s generating new leads or creating more brand awareness. If you’re on a budget, there are many options to explore such as portable exhibits, pop-up exhibits and rentals.

Trade shows are an effective way to position your brand in front of a large, targeted audience. For an estimate on your trade show needs, contact IGE today.