Tips for being a vendor in a tradeshow

TRADE SHOW TIPS
Brought to you by Essential Communications

Whether you are a vendor in the upcoming Local Biz Expo or an entrepreneur with other tradeshow opportunities these simple tips will help you get organized and turn your set up into success!

Plan in advance
 Make a list of all the items you will need on the day of the trade show and check this list on the day before the show.
 Items you may require may include business cards, name tag, product(s), samples, ballot box, brochures, prizes, display, pens, tape, change, SWAG/giveaways, food, water, hand cream/sanitizer, cell phone, breath mints and someone to help you!

Consider your attire
 You are a part of your business, ensure you dress for success. Make it a rule to dress more professional than those who will be attending your trade show.
 Ensure your clothes, hair and nails are tidy.
 Ensure your shoes and clothes are comfortable for a day of standing.

Prepare your booth content
 Have products, samples and/or promotional material.
 Try using different levels to attract attention. Keep your display organized & tidy.
 Ensure material is up to date, prices are clearly marked and that you have lots of stock.

Staffing your booth
 Try and bring a volunteer to help you.
 Never leave your booth unattended, get to know your neighbours and help each other with coverage if you are working alone.

Actively engage visitors
 Give people who approach your display a friendly welcome, be sure your body language is friendly; don’t stand there with your arms crossed over your chest.
 “Chat” with booth visitors, and find out what aspect of your business they’re most interested in.
 SMILE!

Pull a crowd to your trade show booth
 Use an interactive display, such as a quiz or game on a computer, a contest draw, or a demonstration. You may want to have ‘giveaways’, freebies.
 You may want to use your volunteer to draw the crowd, have them walk around with samples or giveaways.
 Maybe even plan a demonstration at your booth at a couple of times in the day and promote it by walking around letting people know.

Use a prize draw or contest
 Having some kind of prize draw or contest is a great way to collect contact information from booth visitors. Ensure your prize is something of value and try to tie it into your business.
 You may want to give away promotional items to encourage people to participate.
 Follow up right away.

Making Contact
 Send out email, regular mail, or make the phone calls to follow up on the contacts and leads you made during the trade show as soon as possible.
 When you meet someone of interest note on the back of their business card a specific detail that will ensure you remember them.

Be ready to do business
 After all we are here to do just that! Make sure you have a good supply of product, order forms, pens, credit card slips, change, or anything else you need to conduct sales and keep track of people’s orders.

Market your participation
 This is an exciting opportunity for any new business. Promote the fact that you will be participating in this tradeshow. Email or call friends, family, social networks encouraging them to come see you in action.

THINGS TO REMEMBER TO BRING WITH YOU
 Extension cords (yes, plural … the venue does not supply power bars nor extension cords)
 All booth supplies
 Cart/dolly to bring in supplies easily
 Business cards
 Bags
 “S” hooks for hanging signs/banners
 Safe carpeting/Floor Covering for your booth (optional)
 A spare pair of shoes
 Door prize, if applicable
 A float if you are selling anything
 Pens and paper