The trade show continues to be an excellent resource for small businesses. It gives you a chance not just to showcase your brand, but also to interact directly with influential figures from your industry. Most trade shows are not open to the general public. They are designed to help vendors, distributors, and manufacturers meet and, potentially, strike up big deals.
There are perks and downsides to this model of promotion. For example, it can be really hard to impress a seasoned investor. Many trade show attendees are experienced acquisition managers, and they’re looking for something unique. This is why it’s worth spending extra time on planning and designing your branded booth.
Keep reading for advice on turning your brand into a big hit at the next trade show or industry conference.
Get Yourself a Gimmick
Often, the word ‘gimmick’ conjures up images of cheesy stunts and empty posturing, but the thing about a roadshow is that you’re effectively auditioning for your right to be there. Plus, everybody else will have a gimmick or visual draw of some kind, so you’ve got to find a way to one up the competition.
Photo booth hire in Sydney road shows is a very popular idea, as it gives booth visitors a bit of fun and a branded memento to take home. If a person ends up taking a great picture, they might pin it to their wall or fridge, and your logo will be right up there with it. It’s a constant reminder that your business is out there and available to them.
Give Out Cool Freebies
You’ve got to do better than branded mugs and pens at a roadshow, because they’re a staple for pretty much every business in attendance. The good news is that people aren’t necessarily looking for practical items. Investors, vendors, sponsors, and other clients want to see a little creativity and imagination. They want to see some personality.
So, be open minded with your freebies.
Think silly stress toys, smartphone socks, sunglasses, wooden puzzles, and anything else which feels a bit more unique. Be the brand that they want to tell their partners, children, and colleagues about when they get home. You don’t have to spend a lot on free gifts. Just try to appeal to the big kid hidden inside all investors.
Be a Human Being
There can be hundreds of different booths at a reasonably sized trade show.
After a while, they’re bound to start feeling a bit samey. To ensure that your brand stands out, ditch the sales spiel. Most attendees will have listened to hours of it before they reach you. What they’ll really be looking for is an interesting, honest, and engaging conversation.
If possible, don’t interact to a script.
While it’s useful to have a general idea about how you want to describe the company, over-planning can lead to an underwhelming experience. Be witty and let your personality guide you. Ask questions about visitors. Show an interest in why they are there and how they are finding the event so far. Engage by being warm and friendly.
Create a Lasting Token
One simple and very affordable way to make your mark is with a stylish recyclable bag. These are a common sight at trade shows because attendees use them to carry all of their booth freebies. If you design a very attractive and appealing one, many people will keep it on display and possibly even use it when they get home.
It might sound like a superficial asset, but these are the little details which help your presence last longer even than the show itself. It doesn’t cost much to have a Hessian or hemp bag print screened with your logo or company slogan. Get it done and make sure that visitors are taking home as many reminders of you as possible.
Why Trade Shows Are a Ticket to Success
There aren’t many opportunities to interact with clients and investors in an informal manner. While these events can be stressful and put a lot of pressure on businesses, they’re also very flexible and dynamic. You make the rules here. You are in charge of your pitch.
Take advantage of the chance to showcase your personality. Talk up products, but don’t forget to demonstrate your values. If an attendee is interested in working with you, there will be opportunities to sell products later. First, convince them that you’re worthy of interest.
