Every start-up wants to steal the show and come back from a trade show with a positive ROI. And why wouldn’t they? The marketing and growth benefits of a successful trade show are huge.
But how do you create incredible trade show booths that are going to leave customers excited about your brand and you with a long list of leads?
Check out these tips.
1. Set Goals
Head to the trade show with clear and realistic goals in mind. What are you looking to accomplish? And how can you make that happen?
By trying to the results you are aiming to achieve, you can measure the return on your investment in the show. Identifying goals will also help to give the day direction and keep you on track.
These goals could include things like a total number of leads generated, direct sales, or even an increase in website traffic. Figure out what your start-up needs to gain from the show and go for it.
2. Start Marketing Before the Show
Marketing yourself before the show is where a lot of your on-the-day traction is going to come from. Reach out to attendees at least four weeks before and organize to meet them at your booth when the day comes.
Start a social media marketing campaign up to two months before to generate some buzz around your start-up. You want to get people excited about seeing you at the show.
Focus on early networking with vendors, clients, and industry influencers. At this stage, don’t try selling just yet – that’s for the days of the show.
3. Make it an Experience
You want people to spend as much time at your booth as possible. Not only because it increases their likelihood of becoming profitable leads, but because crowds attract crowds.
Try to make an interactive experience for people. Use video presentations, set up little activities or games they can take part in.
If people remain engaged, and your product or service will be more appealing. Look at creating different mementos and buttons used for marketing to drive it home.
4. Partner with Brands that Have the Same Target Market
A not-so-secret trade show secret is partnering with brands that have the same target market as you. Trade shows usually target the same audience, so while trading leads and contacts with your direct competition is not recommended, there will be many other companies that you can do this with.
This will instantly double your sales opportunities and is the quickest way to gain access to a wider pool of leads.
5. Have a Strong Visual Presence
You’re going to be one booth among many at your first trade show. You need to stand out, and one of the best ways to do this is to have a strong visual presence that catches people’s attention.
Your booth is a visual representation of your brand and should be both eye-catching and explanatory. Attendees should know what you’re selling just by glancing at your booth as they walk by.
A strong visual presence will allow your target audience to identify you quickly and attract newcomers too.
First Impression is Everything with Trade Show Booths
These important tips for successful trade show booths are sure to give your startup a winning start at your first trade show. Once you figure out your trade show budget, you can start planning everything to a tee.
If you’re looking for more inspiration for your startup, head over to our business blog for more articles just like this.
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