Trade shows are a great way to network with other companies, stay up-to-date on all the latest industry trends and best practices, and even size up your direct competition. As a business owner, you understand how valuable trade shows can be in increasing exposure for your brand.
However, some may argue that any type of exposure is good publicity. At Dyno Creative, we believe it is important to put your best foot forward all the time. Yes, exposure is great for your business. But, if your current approach to preparing for trade shows is only gaining you sub-par attention and not reflecting your business in the most positive light, are you really setting yourself up for success?Â
We don’t think so.Â
Going to a trade show without the right branded materials is like going on a job interview and realizing —a little too late— that you forgot to put your pants on. Sure, you’re definitely going to make an impression, but it may not be the kind you were hoping for. Lucky for you, our illustration and branding experts know exactly what your business needs to do to prepare for trade shows and gain positive exposure for your brand.
Attending trade shows can be extremely beneficial for business growth—or a complete waste of your time. It all depends on how well you planned. We’re big fans of trade shows because they offer a great way to find new business opportunities that may have otherwise gone undiscovered.
Take advantage of these great opportunities by establishing your goals and business strategy early on. Ask yourself the following questions:
What is your purpose for attending this specific trade show? What goals and objectives do you hope to meet by attending? Are there any specific companies or individuals you hope to connect with?
If so, it may be in your best interest to reach out ahead of time and let them know you will be attending the same event. This way you can make plans to connect, attend a workshop together, or set aside time to debrief at the end of the event.
Another great way to maximize your potential for growth and success at your next trade show is to know who will be attending and what role will they play. Are you going solo, or will you have a team of five colleagues joining you? One of the most awkward things that can happen is having a potential client approach your trade show booth and –
You can easily avoid this situation by mapping out each person’s roles and responsibilities ahead of time. This way you can maintain professionalism and have greater success in delivering your message to potential customers. Even better, knowing what responsibilities need to be covered at the booth can potentially free up one or two people to step away from the booth and connect with other trade show attendees at the venue.
A lot of trade shows involve businesses renting a booth space where they can market their services and products to potential customers. One of the most important ways you can prepare to capture people’s attention is to sketch out your booth design in advance. Will you need just a table? Chairs (and how many)? Electrical access for TVs and other audiovisual displays?
It is important to point out that for bigger trade show productions, you may have to submit a sketch of your booth layout, along with a list of requested items needed. It would be highly inconsiderate to show up on the day of the event asking for resources they aren’t prepared to give. Furthermore, if you lack a clear vision of how you want your booth to look, chances are it will feel rushed and thrown together. Visually appealing booths have better attendance than those who are cluttered, disorganized, or lacking branded graphic materials.
Last, but certainly not least, you should seriously consider investing in branded graphic materials for all of your future trade shows, conferences, company events, and more. As you know, first impressions are everything. If your business attends a trade show with hundreds of other companies, what can you do to make your brand stand out?
Our team of illustrators, graphic designers, and brand messaging specialists know exactly what to do. Through branded print materials, outdoor set-ups, and social and web graphics, Dyno Creative can set you up for success!
Are you in need of price lists? Branded signs? Tablecloths? Do you have updated business cards? For outdoor events, have you invested in a branded canopy? Are you currently running online ads on your website to promote your upcoming attendance at a specific trade show?
If you are unsure or answered “no” to any of these questions, we’ve got you covered. Download our checklist to get a better idea of what you should have in place when preparing for your next trade show.
We understand, there is a lot to do when preparing for a trade show, especially if it’s your first one. We recommend planning for trade shows at least 5-6 months in advance—really! While that may seem a far out, the event will approach very quickly. The last thing you want is to realize a few days out that you are completely unprepared.
To prepare the right way, you need to give yourself plenty of time to establish your needs and order your materials in advance. If you plan on attending more trade shows in the future, you should consider ordering promotional materials in bulk. Investing in professional branded graphic materials will send an important message to your target audience—you are professional experts in your industry and take pride in what you have to offer. For more information on how to prepare for trade shows, download our free checklist.
Dyno Creative is ready to evolve your trade show graphic materials. Are you? Contact us today to get started.
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