Exhibitions and trade shows can be highly effective for all different sized businesses in getting their products and services noticed. If a show goes well for you it can really boost your sales and your brand awareness. Here we explore five of the best marketing secrets that can guarantee you trade show success:
Plan Ahead
While it may seem obvious, some businesses neglect to set in place a clear planning strategy. Your plan should include staffing of the stand, your budget and the theme of your display.
If your budget allows, a custom built exhibition stand is a great way to attract crowds at any trade show. Planning the design of your exhibition stand is essential as this will dictate how your exhibition pans out. Your stand will need to be built so allow enough time for the exhibition stands contractors to do their job.
Inform Existing Customers of Your trade show Appearance
Don’t ignore existing customers as they are likely to be attending the trade show as well. Ask for advice on what customers would like to see at the event and encourage them to spread the word. Customer testimonials instill confidence into those looking to use your services.
Make Sure you Integrate Your Marketing
Make sure you use direct mail and social media marketing to draw attention to your upcoming exhibition. It is easy to keep in touch with existing customers with the numerous forms of media available. Create a conversation about the event, encouraging visitors and attendees to share experiences. Direct mail can be useful for getting people’s attention and asking them to checkout your YouTube channel or Facebook page to uncover a sneak preview of what’s to come at the show.
See What Your Competition are Doing
Do your research on the competition you’ll face at the trade show. Pinpoint their strengths and weaknesses. Concentrate on promoting your unique selling point (USP) and just why people should use your products and services over others.
Ensure your exhibition stand has impact. Creative exhibition stands, giveaways and product demonstrations are a great way of encouraging visitors to your stand. Your main priority is to get a good return on investment (roi).
Follow Up
After your exhibition, review your success. By collecting visitor’s details on the day you can then send them sales literature after the show and ask for feedback. This will help when planning your next exhibition. If you know what you’re doing well – and not so well – you can improve your trade show success every time.
Planning your next tradeshow? RB Design & Display specialise in portable, custom built and modular exhibition stands. Contact them now to see what they can do for you.