An exhibit services company can create a reliable and professional space for your next trade show, but what you do with that space will determine your ultimate success. Free items that you give away are often a popular tactic for promotion at a trade show. However, some tactics and items work better than others, and it’s important to choose the right ones to maximize your investment.

Set Your Objectives First

Ideally, you’ll define your goals for the trade show and then conceive of giveaways that complement that, rather than get giveaway items first and hope they are relevant to your goals. For example, if you are primarily focused on high-quality lead generation and are limiting yourself to meetings with potential investors, partners, or other important clients, you may want to invest in more premium gifts, rather than bulk items that can be distributed to a crowd.

Know The Trade Show Regulations

Different trade shows will have their own specific rules and regulations about what is permissible and what is not for giveaway items. For example, one trade show may prohibit the presence and distribution of helium balloons because they interfere with ventilation on the floor space when lost and drifting toward the ceiling. Some trade show venues prohibit giving away food items, while others allow it. Research which items are permitted and which aren’t in advance.

Watch Your Numbers

Some marketing advocates for setting aside 20% of your total trade show budget toward giveaways. However, you should consider the total cost of a trade show giveaway item, not just the per-unit cost. There may be additional expenses you’ll need to account for, such as printing, shipping, and materials handling. Make sure these additional costs don’t surprise you when it comes to your giveaway budget.

Make Items Part Of Your Lead Generation

It may even be possible to work your giveaway items into additional outreach. Mentioning them in promotional materials leading up to the trade show may encourage people to visit your exhibit if it’s a unique or desirable item. Additionally, this can carry over to their visit to the exhibit or to a meeting. You may even want to consider the same item, or even a new one, as an additional thank you, or point of touching base after the trade show, sending it to promising leads to help start building that business relationship.

If you want to work with an experienced exhibit services company to ensure you get a good return on your trade show investment, contact Lighthouse Exhibits.