Trade Show Faux Pas: 5 Common Convention Mistakes

Many things can go wrong while running a booth at a trade show. Unforeseen circumstances will always arise, so it is important to plan appropriately and try to get a handle on as many controllable things as possible. Here are some tips for things to avoid at trade shows, and what can make your booth a successful one. These suggestions could keep you from looking out of place, and will help your brand succeed at any trade show or convention.

Late to Set Up

Regardless of the excuse, it is important that your booth is set up before the doors open on the first day of the show. Late flights, traffic and other circumstances can derail your show if you’re not prepared. If you are caught setting up while attendees are roaming the grounds, you will appear unorganized and unprofessional. Get to the show a couple days early to ensure a good start to your trade show experience.

No Pre-Show Marketing

Smart booths at trade shows have already made their impact before the show has opened. Sending out flyers, online promotions and email blasts help people get excited for certain brands, making a mark before an attendee even sees your booth. Make your brand’s appearance at a trade show known, and you will have a successful show.

Lack of Communication

Some companies believe that each day of a trade show requires the same procedure and training. This is a false belief, and can hurt the impact that your brand has at a trade show. Communicate with your staff on a daily basis, offering new information for a new day of exhibiting. By making your booth a must-visit destination, and talking with your staff about the changes made each day, your brand will find success throughout the expo.

Failure to Prepare

Many brands hope to attract attention at trade shows, but don’t have enough supplies to handle the demand. It is important to bring enough materials and giveaways to last the entire show, and even more to hand out when socializing with industry professionals when the trade show closes for the day. Preparation is key when setting up your booth, and is essential to making the show beneficial for the full run of the convention.

Wasting Time

Time is valuable at trade shows, so it is vital to use every moment possible as an opportunity to push your brand and sell your product. Plan out your show schedule, and set up meetings during lunches and dinners to maximize the amount of time you can spend with potential customers. Make the most of your time, and your trade show experience will be a positive one.

These tips can help you avoid looking out of place at trade shows, and will maximize the impact that your brand makes on customers. For help with trade show exhibits, contact Xibit Solutions at (702) 361-7502.