How To Prepare For Your First Trade Show

As the pandemic turns the corner, trade shows will be making a big comeback. Some businesses, however, are new, having survived the trial by fire of opening during the pandemic, and now getting ready to join the rest of the business community by participating in a trade show. If this is your first, what should you be doing to get prepared for it?

Read The Attendee List

While not mandatory, most trade shows will have a list of attendees available for everyone to consult. As this is primarily a business networking event, the best thing you can do for yourself is to find out which businesses and individuals would benefit you most if you were to meet. Consult the list and start making your own.

Round-Up Your Extroverts

Introverts and extroverts each have a place in a business environment, and when it comes to meeting numerous people for hours in a busy setting, this is what extroverts were born to do. If you need to have your introverted employees present, understand that this will be a stressful and draining experience for them. If you have extroverts, this will be their element, and they will soar.

Prepare Answers

The basic function of a trade show is to educate potential clients and customers who may benefit from your product or service. This means your staff must be ready to provide the answers to questions that people will have. Ensure that your team is properly trained to address the common questions and refer people to another source or co-worker if more specific or technical questions arise.

Prepare Demos

Seeing is believing, as the saying goes, so if you have a product or service that can be demonstrated, people will want to see it in action. Make sure your staff is ready to conduct these demos, as watching these play out can often be the winning move that nets more business interest.

Take Marathon Preparations

Trade shows typically run most of the day and will last for a few days. This means people conducting meetings and demonstrations at a high level of energy and engagement for hours. Make sure you and your staff are prepared for this. It’s a gratifying but grueling experience, and if you don’t pace yourself, you may not be ready for the crucial final day or hours.

If you want to make sure you’re ready for your first trade show, we can help. Contact Lighthouse Exhibits, and we can assist you with both analog and digital trade show concerns.