How to Prepare for a Trade Show

A trade show is an important event. Whether you’re a new startup showing off your innovative product or service, or you’re an established business promoting your product or service, trade shows are a great place to network and become well-known in the industry.

In a previous blog, our event center team went over some ways to get the most out of a trade show. In this follow up entry, we’re going to look at how to best prepare before you board your flight. Going in with a clear plan of action is the best way to get the most out of it, and we’re going to tell you how.

Plan Everything in Advance

Planning isn’t just for trade show organizers. As someone representing your business and displaying or selling, you need to make sure you plan well in advance how people will experience your booth area. Plan what you’re going to take, from sample products to marketing materials, and make sure you order everything you need to make your booth stand out from the crowd.

This goes for the team you bring, too. How many people do you plan to take? Be sure to plan travel and accommodations in advance to make sure everyone has a place to stay. Most of all, when bringing a team with you, discuss your goals and expectations for the trade show exhibition hours.

Think Hard About Booth Size

The size of the booth you book is going to make more of a difference than you probably expect. You might start out thinking that the biggest booth is going to be best, but this isn’t always true. Having too much space without being able to fill it all will hurt your image just as much as having a small booth overflowing with your wares. You need to book space that you can make the most of. Base your booth size or team size, be sure you have the products and additional equipment you may need such as an A/V or furniture.

Location, Location, Location

The location of your booth is going to matter more than the size. You want your booth to be visible and easy to access. The best booth locations offer easy access without being overexposed. Check with the trade show organizer during registration to see a booth map to choose the best location for you.

Be Ready to Speak to Your Audience

Engagement is a big part of promoting yourself, especially at a trade show. You’re going to need to stand out from a lot of other booths and displays. You need people to notice and remember you. Long before the show itself, work out the best way to pitch whatever you’re showing or selling, and practice your ’30-second elevator pitch’.

Come up with a pitch that’s engaging and clear to potential customers. Make sure you balance performance with professionalism so that you stand out from competitors without making people cringe away from a cheesy sales pitch.

Rocky Mount Trade Shows

Rocky Mount Event Center is the perfect location for a trade show. With 165,000 square feet of versatile, adaptable space, and a wide variety of amenities, we can cater to all kinds of events. From weddings and birthday parties to large concerts and sports, we really are the center of it all. Contact Rocky Mount Event Center today.