Trade shows are a great way to meet lots of potential clients, business partners and industry leaders all under one roof. But with so many different – yet similar – businesses all competing for interest, how can you make sure your exhibition stands out against the rest?
1. Network in advance
Before the trade show, you’ll want to make sure to email a list of people in your industry that are likely to be going, letting them know you’d love to meet them. This way, you can get the conversation started early and encourage more people to drop by before the event has even started! Not only this, but your competitors will be scratching their heads wondering how you’ve had so many visitors over at your booth.
2. Hire an exhibition stand manufacturer
If you’re really looking to make an impression, hiring an exhibition stand manufacturer will make your business appear more investible and worth finding out more about! From concept to installation, exhibition stand companies will take care of everything. All you need to do is supply them with the brief, letting them know what you’re looking for, when, and where. Exhibition designers will also work closely with you to ensure your exhibit meets your needs appropriately, suggesting ideas you may not have thought of before to really make your stand one to remember. And the best part? On the day of the trade show, the team will take care of the install of your exhibit so you can just sit back and focus on the important stuff!
3. Offer freebies and incentives
With so many other businesses to compete with, you’ll want to give people a good reason to stop at your exhibit. Branded freebies are always a great incentive – because who doesn’t want free stuff? But if you want to take it up a notch, offering free entry into a prize draw or an exclusive discount when signing up to your mailing list is a lucrative way to not only drum up interest in your business or service, but to also make sure you get those all-important leads.
4. Attract attention with a creative stunt
Similar to the above, offering something unusual and creative to spark interest in your exhibition will take its interest to the next level. Not only will it set your booth apart from the rest, but it will also create a buzz and chatter amongst attendees. Whether you set up a free T-shirt design station, a new car giveaway, or hire an acrobat, whatever you choose, just make it one to remember!
5. Engage with the trade show hashtag
Most trade shows these days have a hashtag you can follow to see updates from attendees, businesses, and the trade show organisers. Make sure to post engaging content and videos (being careful not to overdo it!) on social media using the trade show hashtag and tagging the profile of the trade show/organizers if there is one. That way, you’ll be able to shine a spotlight on your business and build some essential brand awareness.
Trade shows are highly lucrative events and to ensure you make the most of it, you’ll want to make sure your exhibition grabs the attention of passers-by. Exhibit fabrication, offering incentives, pre-networking and engaging with the trade show hashtag are just some of the ways you can ensure your exhibition stands out from the rest, and it’s these meaningful, memorable interactions that are sure to have the biggest impact on attendees and help you gain valuable leads.
