With our Spring Trade Event almost upon us and trade show season in general in full swing, planning your visit to an exhibition can be overwhelming. To make sure you get the most out of attending, we suggest following a few simple steps.
How can exhibitors get the most from a trade show?
1. Set clear objectives
Identify what you want to achieve at the show and ensure all your team are on board – this could be raising brand awareness or generating sales leads. Remember that trade shows are increasingly less about direct sales but rather laying the foundations for future business.
2. Share information with organisers
If you have any special offers or competitions taking place at the show, let the organisers know so that they can share your promotions with attendees in advance.
3. Make your stand attractive
Create a visually enticing and interactive stand that is a true reflection of your brand. This will encourage visitors to stop and look at your products or services as they walk by.
4. Record leads and follow up promptly
Ensure you use a lead capture system for your team to capture as much relevant contact information as you can from interested attendees. Follow up with potential customers as soon as you can after the event, while the lead is hot.
How can visitors maximise their time at a trade show?
1. Plan ahead
Research the list of exhibitors – you can do this for the CMJ Spring Trade Event via our app – and make note of those that you want to visit. This should include researching the brand and CMJ discounts available, as well as identifying the key contact to speak to.
2. Keep an open mind
While you may have a list of must-visit exhibitors, don’t be closed off to speaking to suppliers that you might not have planned to check out. You could be opening your business up to a world of new opportunities.
3. Meet up with other visitors
Use a trade show as an opportunity to meet up with fellow businesses who are also attending for a coffee or lunch. It is a great time to share information on how you are finding trade generally as well as discussing any exhibitors you have seen that might be of interest.
4. Don’t wait for suppliers to contact you
As soon as you can, make contact with any exhibitors that were of interest to you with any questions or queries that you may have. They will be keen to follow up with you after the show to ensure that you are still interested in their products and services, so ask them any questions you may have. There may also be geographical restrictions on stockists, so the sooner you make your enquiry the better.
And finally, whether you are exhibiting or visiting, prepare to be tired by the end of it – so wear comfortable footwear, drink plenty of water and expect for it to take longer than planned to see everything you want to!
