Trade Shows

No expert is needed to predict the marketplace in 2010 will continue to change at rapid pace. One of the best ways for your company to gain exposure and set itself apart from the competition in such an environment is to exhibit at trade shows.

Trade shows are a proven method to generate leads, close sales, stay on top of industry trends, survey competition, and meet potential suppliers and partners.

Where expertise comes in handy is making sure you net a good return on your investment when exhibiting at trade shows. The team of h2b creative provides a complete line of services, no matter how large or small your need, which can help you achieve this goal. Consider these tips:

Carefully identify the most productive conferences and shows that reach your target audience of potential customers or clients.

Advertise in advance by inviting your clients, customers, and suppliers to the show.

Employ a simple, informative display that delivers your company’s brand message in a clear and compelling way. Be open to new ways of presenting your services. Trade show attendees see hundreds of exhibits in the course of a day, and yours must be unique and engaging to be memorable.

Promotional items, such as business cards, brochures and pens, should be consistent in design and message to complement your display and company brand and products.

Prize drawings and giveaways are great tools to draw visitors to your booth.

Staff your booth with skilled employees. Remember, people do business with people, and knowledge and expertise counts.

Follow Up!

After the show, follow up on new contacts in a timely manner, while their experience at your booth is still fresh in mind. Consider sending a direct mail piece, making phone calls, or scheduling meetings with potential customers. Much of the business you generate as a result of the show may not be realized for a few months; so follow-up is key to maintaining interest in your products and services.

If you are new to a specific location and market, check your local Chamber of Commerce or Convention Center websites for dates and other info on how to participate in upcoming shows. The process is generally easy and costs are minimal.

The h2b creative team will be happy to assist you in identifying the best shows for your company, strategy planning, and producing exhibit and collateral materials that will generate dollars and keep you ahead of the competition.

More Trade Show Winners

• Start planning several months in advance and allow ample time for production of your trade show display

• Keep an ample stock of promotional take-away items, such as pens or notebooks, which serve as reminders of your business.

• To draw crowds, show your capabilities in action by having interactive demonstrations.

• Offer a prize drawing for items such as an iPod or gift card. This gives people incentive to visit your booth and learn about your business.

• Make your display booth clean and easy for people to navigate. People take more away from booths that are simple, yet    effective.