Execute the Perfect Expo with This Trade Show Checklist

Published on: 09 November 2018 Last Updated on: 19 July 2019
Trade Show

Are you heading to a trade show?

Anyone who’s ever tried putting together a public product launch knows a trade show checklist is essential to standing out. After all, your competition includes anywhere from 50-250 companies as hungry as yours.

Each one will bring passion and planning to their table. You have to assume that anyway. With that assumption in mind, here’s what your to-do list should look like.

1. Get the Budget on Paper

Any preparing for a trade show checklist should start with the finances. How much money do you have allocated for things like marketing, travel, personnel, and materials?

Will you be there for the launch of a new product? Or will your attendance be more informational in nature?

Either way, there’s going to be overheard. Will that overhead, justify the projected cost-benefit you hope to achieve from the trade show itself?

This isn’t something you should ballpark. Details reduce expenses and create profits. They also provide a benchmark for future trade show marketing efforts.

Some other benefits of budgeting include the following:

  • Ensuring you don’t overspend
  • Helping achieve profitability if you plan on selling anything
  • Providing relevant numbers for tax purposes
  • Giving you a clear idea of which spending efforts are producing the best results

And that’s just a start. You also may be able to create partnerships from these exhibitions that inform data such as the cost of customer acquisition or indirect revenue generation.

2. Make the SMART Objectives

Any trade show exhibitor checklist will need to be written in the form of objectives. Objectives are specific things you hope to accomplish in the planning, execution, and breakdown of your trade show exhibition.

But for objectives to be effective, they need to be SMART, not smart. (Okay, maybe it’s both.) By SMART, we mean:

  • Specific: Your list shouldn’t say, “Pack up all trade show materials.” It should say, “Pack booth into box truck rental.” In other words, each item or group of items should have tailored directives.
  • Measurable: You should be able to look at your objective and determine whether (and how) it was accomplished. This ensures you remember to pack the important stuff. It also helps avoid partial shipments.
  • Action-oriented: Each piece of your inventory or each goal you hope to achieve should be attached to an action verb. Think “employ,” “carry,” “ensure,” etc.
  • Realistic: Can it actually be done? Or are you trying to do too much, too quickly?
  • Time-sensitive: Being time-sensitive keeps you on track. It makes sure everything gets the level of attention it deserves.

Make sure your trade show preparation aligns with these components. Doing so will ensure all your objectives are SMART ones.

3. Learn Your Audience

Another essential step in how to prepare for a trade show is getting to know the people who will be there. Take the annual San Diego Comic-Con, for example.

Superhero, horror, and fantasy films and TV series earn billions of dollars each year. But that’s from general audience support.

The audience at Comic-Con is a lot different. A lot more, shall we say, fanatical?

Playing to their sensibilities have made Comic-Con one of the largest and most successful trade shows in the world. Exhibitors give the people what they want.

These “fanatics” create a culture of fandom that helps put whatever property they’re supporting on the radar of general consumers. Only when exhibitors fail to make that connection to the fanatics do their films/TV shows fall flat. So make sure your audience is priority number one.

4. Make Early Reservations

Content should be your primary focus. You need your attention on it early and often. So get room and space reservations out of the way early.

Determine how many are going, how many rooms you’ll need, and when you plan on arriving. It usually doesn’t cost anything to make a room reservation, especially when you get ahead of it.

5. Dot I’s and Cross T’s

What are the legal terms of your attendance? Is there anything you may be overlooking?

Don’t just assume you can show up and be good to go. Read the fine print. It’s not a bad idea to hand it off to your attorney either, especially when the contracts are written in legalese.

6. Figure out Your Materials

Will you have any tents with your logo on them? Printed marquees or business cards?

Flyers, handouts, reports, books – what will help you leave your mark so the audience doesn’t forget you after visiting 40 other booths?

Now’s the time to figure it out. Don’t be afraid to try something no one has thought of before.

7. Test Your Wares

Launching a product at the trade show? You don’t want the show itself to be the first test run you give to it.

If it’s possible for the product to break or malfunction, make sure it happens long before accepting your first customer. Do extensive testing on your advanced prototypes in the weeks or months leading up to the event.

8. Work out Installation

Any trade show exhibit will have a “storefront” of some kind. It could be a simple gateleg table or a more elaborate booth. Whatever you choose, make sure you’ve got the manpower and the timing down to get it installed so your people can get comfortable with the environment before accepting guests.

9. Select Your Reps

Ideally, your representatives will be an even mixture of competent and personable. Now that package can be hard to come by in just one employee. Do a deep assessment of your talent and make sure they complement one another.

You wouldn’t want a couple of Big Bang Theory-type programmers manning a software demonstration if they weren’t very good with people. The goal is to make the product accessible to general customers. Always keep the intention in mind.

10. Make Sure You Document It

What good is a successful trade show if you can’t blast out pictures on social media? Whether paid or organic, the exposure you can get from a few well-tagged, well-captioned photos gives you a lot more bang for your buck – and meaningful relationships – than a dozen Super Bowl ads.

11. Identify Your Neighbors (And Competitors)

Part of getting comfortable with the surroundings in which you’ll be operating is reaching out to the people around you. You’re both in a strange new setting. Even if you’re competitors, it’s not going to hurt to introduce yourself and share pleasantries while waiting for the crowds to build.

Beyond passing the time, however, identifying your neighbors and competition gives you a chance to learn from them and they from you. Watching each other work in the same environment will tell you whether it’s a positive or negative interaction, and it can give you ample ideas for next time.

12. Actively Promote Yourself on Social Media

Promoting the event is important before, during, and afterward. It’s important before for a rather obvious reason – you want people to show up.

During the event? Just as essential. That’s because you can pick up impulse traffic with your social media posts or provide updates to followers who couldn’t feasibly be at your location.

Finally, afterward is a nice time to reflect, post pictures, tag new and existing contacts, and make a new checklist of the things you’ll do the same (and differently) next year.

One final tip here is to consider building a paid marketing campaign before the event. That said, you can go a long way with organic if you bring your relationship marketing skills to the social network.

13. Bring Your A-Game to the Event

In many cases, trade shows are the biggest events of the year for a business. They’re a great way to get whatever you do in front of the people or companies who can help take them to the next level.

As such, you don’t want your B-Team working the room. As mentioned before, bring your most knowledgeable and outgoing people to the event.

But don’t stop there. Ensure they’ve prepared a list of personal objectives for the event. Make sure they get the proper rest and show up to the event in proper attire and ahead of schedule.

14. Ensure Demobilization

Finally, demobilization is an important part of the trade show experience. That’s because conference halls often limit the amount of time you have to clear out your displays and materials before they start charging past the contracted time.

Either hire a moving company ahead of time or ensure you bring along the appropriate amount of muscle to disband and transport trade show materials away from the location. And it helps to have an effective portable trade show display going into the event.

Make Your Trade Show Checklist a Priority

Your trade show checklist will be one of the most important documents you have when gearing up for a major event. The other stuff is important too – exhibits, materials, accommodations, but something inevitably will fall by the wayside if you wing it.

And while you’re here, check out our top tips to help you build a brand for your small business.

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

Headstone

Can I Make My Own Headstone?

When you lose a loved one, it’s hard to know what to do next. One of the most important decisions you will make is sorting through all the headstone designs to pick the right one. This may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about memorial headstones, from whether or not you can make your own, to things to consider before purchasing materials. Can You Make Your Own? The answer is yes, you can make your headstone, but there are a few things to consider before doing so. When making your own headstone, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. The type of stone you use, the size, the weight of the stone, the design of the headstone, and the inscription are all important factors that will affect the cost and appearance of your headstone. Let’s look at each of these factors. The Size and Weight of the Stone The size and weight of the stone you use will depend on the type of stone and the size of the grave. There are many factors to consider when choosing the size and weight of a headstone, but the most important is the type of stone. Granite is the heaviest type of stone, so it is best suited for larger graves. Marble is a lighter type of stone, often used for smaller graves. Limestone is the lightest type of stone, so it is best suited for cremation urns or other small memorials. The weight of the stone is also a factor to consider. Heavier stones will require sturdier bases, which can add to the cost. Lighter stones are easier to install, but they may not be as durable in high winds or other severe weather. The size of the grave is another important factor to consider. If the grave is too small, there may not be enough room for a headstone. If the grave is too large, the headstone may look out of proportion. It is important to measure the grave before making a headstone to ensure that it will fit properly. The Design of the Headstone There are many design options for headstones, but the most common are traditional, modern, and personalized. We typically make traditional headstones from granite or marble and feature simple designs such as crosses or angels. We often make modern headstones from limestone or other less expensive materials that can feature more intricate designs. Personalized headstones are becoming increasingly popular and can be made from any material. We can customize them with images, symbols, or text that are meaningful to the deceased or their family. The Inscription The most important part of a headstone is the inscription. This is what future generations will read about what is there and is the best way to remember and honor your loved one. There are many ways to personalize an inscription. The most important thing is to choose something that will have meaning for you and your family. The Cost If you're looking to save a little money on the cost of a headstone, you may be considering making your own. However, this is not a decision to be made lightly. For starters, you'll need to have a good understanding of the materials involved and the process of creating a headstone. You'll also need to factor in the cost of tools and supplies. The average cost of making your own headstone can range anywhere from $600 to $3,000. The size, weight, and design of the headstone will all play a role in the final price. For example, a traditional headstone made of granite will be on the higher end of the price range, while a smaller headstone may be on the lower end. Types of Stone Granite is the most popular type of stone for headstones because it is durable and comes in a variety of colors. Marble is also a popular choice because it is elegant and can be carved into intricate designs. Limestone is less popular than granite and marble, but it is still a good option for those who want a more affordable headstone. Design When it comes to designing your headstone, there are many options to choose from. The three most common designs are traditional, modern, and personalized. Traditional headstone designs are typically rectangular or oval and feature classical motifs, such as crosses or angels. Modern headstone designs are often more abstract and can include features such as geometric shapes or nature scenes. Personalized headstone designs are those that are unique to the individual and can include anything from a favorite hobby or interest to a photograph or design that represents the person’s life. Inscription There are many things to consider when deciding what to put on your headstone. The most important thing is to keep it short and sweet. You want people to be able to read it easily and understand what it says. Some things you may want to include are: Your nameDates of birth and deathA brief message or quoteAn image or symbol Remember, the inscription is meant to be a lasting tribute to your life, so take some time to think about what you want to say. If you need help, many companies offer headstone design and inscription services. Conclusion Making your headstone is a great way to personalize your grave, but there are a few things to consider before doing so. The most important thing to consider is the cost, as headstones can be expensive. You should also think about the size and weight of the stone, as well as the design. The inscription on the headstone should be short and to the point. Keep these things in mind when making your decision, and you will be sure to create the perfect headstone for your needs. Additionals: Why Engraved Gifts Are the Perfect Gifts to Show That You Care

READ MOREDetails
Office Carpets

Why Office Carpets Are A Health Hazard And How Commercial Cleaning Helps?

If you work in a nice, cool, and modern office, you spend most of your day sitting at your desk and walking on a carpeted floor. Indeed, carpeted floors feel so much better to walk on; they are pretty to look at, absorb sound and reduce noise, help insulate the room, provide a non-slip and safer surface, and are just a lot more comfortable. However, there is also a good chance that the very carpet you love could be hiding some serious dangers. As we all know, carpets are excellent dirt magnets. Foreign particles ranging from allergens, and bacteria to toxic chemicals could get trapped in between the fibres of the carpet; these things can pose potential health hazards. This is what commercial cleaning, particularly office cleaning and carpet deep cleaning, is about. Allergens One of the most common, and probably the biggest, danger hiding in between the fibres of your office carpets are allergens. Allergens come in various forms, from dirt, dust, pet dander, dust mites, pollen, etc., which are all practically invisible to the naked eye. These particles get trapped on the carpet but can become airborne when someone walks on the carpet. People with hypersensitivity to these allergens can easily feel allergic reactions from these particles, such as sneezing, coughing, stuffy or runny nose, red, watery and itchy eyes, headaches, etc. Those with asthma, allergic rhinitis, or similar respiratory conditions will feel the worst of the symptoms. If you often suffer from allergies, you may notice that your symptoms are usually worse t work. And if you work in a carpeted environment, there is a good chance it is caused by dirty office carpet. To reduce your exposure to harmful allergens, make sure to invest in a vacuum cleaner that comes with a HEPA filter. HEPA is a special type of filter that traps extremely small particles. The good thing about hiring good commercial cleaning companies is that they use HEPA vacuums for their office cleaning. Bacteria Another common danger that could be lurking in your office caret is bacteria. As said earlier, carpets are practically dirt traps. It traps anything and everything, including moisture. Beverage spills, wet food, or various liquids dropped on the carpet turn the carpet into a breeding ground for bacteria. Bacteria, as we all know, can cause a long list of serious illnesses, such as pneumonia, meningitis, etc. To reduce your risk of these health problems, it is important to have your office carpet professionally cleaned. Commercial office cleaners use HEPA filter vacuums, special cleaning equipment and commercial-grade cleaning agents to effectively clean and disinfect carpets. They can safely clean bacteria lurking between the fibres and deep into the carpet without damaging the fabric. Toxic Chemicals Another danger that is often overlooked in the office setting is toxic chemicals. Often, office chemicals are treated with special chemicals to make them flame-retardant and stain-resistant. You will often see this in carpets placed in high-traffic areas, as they are incredibly convenient in terms of care and safety. However, over time, as the carpet ages, these special chemicals can off-gas, releasing toxic fumes into the air. Some of the most common chemicals used in treating carpets are benzene, formaldehyde, and toluene. These chemicals have been linked to a variety of health problems, such as respiratory issues, dizziness, and headaches. To reduce your chances of exposure to these chemicals, make sure to choose office carpets that are certified as low-emitting or free from harmful chemicals. If your office has already installed carpets with these chemical treatments, consider testing them for chemical emissions. Mould Mould is another common danger that is often overlooked in work settings like offices. Since carpets can trap moisture, they become damp. Hence, they become an ideal environment for mould growth. Mould can release spores into the air, and like allergens, they can cause respiratory and health problems. To reduce your risk of exposure to mould, it is crucial to have your pipes checked for possible leaks, improve office ventilation, and use a dehumidifier to reduce humidity levels. Also, make sure to have your carpets cleaned by professional commercial cleaners. Tips For Keeping Your Office's Carpet Clean And Safe Now that you know the dangers that could be lurking in your office carpet, it is important to take the necessary steps to keep your carpets clean and safe. Here are some tips for that: Vacuum Regularly Office carpets must be thoroughly vacuumed at least once a week to remove dust, dirt, and another allergen buildup. Use HEPA Filter Make sure to invest in a HEPA filter to effectively remove all small particles that have settled deep into the carpet. Clean Up Spills As Soon As Possible Prevent moisture from seeping deep into the carpet fibres by cleaning up spills promptly. Invest In Safe Cleaning Products Not all cleaning products are the same. Many may be effective in cleaning and killing bacteria, but they can be made from harmful chemicals. People hypersensitive to these strong cleaning solutions may be at risk of experiencing health problems such as allergic reactions and respiratory symptoms. Have Your Office Carpets Professionally Cleaned You can save yourself from all the hassles of cleaning and buying special cleaning equipment and cleaning solutions or hiring and training office cleaners by simply getting the services of professional office cleaners. Professional commercial cleaning services include deep cleaning, which is exactly what office carpets need. Health experts recommend that office carpets must be deep cleaned at least once a year (twice for offices with heavy foot traffic) to remove deep-seater allergens and dirt and keep them clean and safe for everyone. Takeaway Your office's carpet may seem innocuous, but it could be hiding some serious dangers. Save yourself from the stress of guesswork and hire professional commercial cleaning services to take care of your carpet cleaning needs. Commercial cleaning services provide customized cleaning plans to give you the exact, comprehensive, and quality service you need. Also, these office cleaning services companies hire professional cleaners, train them, and equip them with advanced cleaning techniques and equipment to ensure safe and thorough cleaning of your office. Their experienced cleaners are fully trained and well-versed in handling various cleaning and building maintenance tasks, including deep cleaning. Lastly, hiring professional cleaning services from legit professional commercial cleaning companies can help you save precious time and money in the long run. Not only that they have the manpower and special equipment to provide the highest quality cleaning, but they are also extremely efficient. They can work around your schedule, reduce downtime, and improve the productivity of your workplace. Read Also: Why Is A Janitorial Service For Commercial Establishments? 10 Pro Tips To Minimize Commercial Door Repair & Maintenance Cost The Hidden Damages In Workspaces: 5 Steps To Reduce The Risk Of Workplace Injuries!

READ MOREDetails
Spiritual Wellness

Stoke Your Spirit: 4 Soulful Ways to Reach Spiritual Wellness and Lead a Calmer Life

Have you been feeling a bit disconnected from things lately? Then you require spiritual wellness to boost your lifestyle. Do you feel off-kilter, that you aren't in control of your emotions, or just exhausted all the time? Just feel like you're not able to see the good in things anymore? Your spiritual development is likely suffering. You need to find a way to rebalance yourself and achieve a greater sense of peace. From focusing on forgiveness to taking the time to be grateful every day, read on to learn how to improve your overall spiritual wellness. Different Ways You Can Attain The Spiritual Wellness In Your Life Are As Follows:-    There are multiple ways you can attain the spiritual wellness in you life are as follows:- 1. Give Thanks Every Day: Especially in today's social media obsessed age, it's so tempting to compare our lives with those of others. We focus so much on the things we don't have, or the success we haven't yet reached, we completely overlook the gifts we've been given. Practice the radical art of gratitude. Before you go to bed every night, make a list of five things you're grateful for. We promise you'll feel much happier and more present at the moment. 2. Meditate or Pray Regularly: You can improve your spiritual health by taking the time to pray, meditate, send good vibes, or simply reflect every day. Sit in silence, light some candles if you want, and just have a conversation with yourself, God, or whatever entity you want to pray to. It's an especially great way to start your day. You can also look for faith-based communities to pray or meditate with. You can search for something like, "Lutheran church near me" to help you find places of worship where others share your beliefs. 3. Read Spiritual Texts Slowly: Spiritual wellness is all about taking your time with things. That includes reading spiritual texts. Instead of tearing through a whole book of the Bible or trying to read as many books on Buddhist thought as possible, slow down. Focus on and really analyze one passage at a time. You'll get much more out of it that way. 4. Give and Forgive: Finally, if you want to achieve stronger spiritual wellbeing, you need to be able to both serve and forgive others. Volunteer at a local soup kitchen or animal shelter. Make dinners for friends going through tough times. Give your best friends presents to show how much they mean to you. Tutor students in need, or even donate clothing and housewares. In addition to giving, you should also learn how to forgive. Don't linger on past "wrongs" people have done you. Accept that people make mistakes, and work on forgiving as opposed to just forgetting. Improve Your Spiritual Wellness with These Tips: Remember that spiritual wellness isn't something you can rush or achieve overnight. Instead, it's about developing consistent patterns of behavior and finding practices that work for you. Looking for more tips on spiritual healing and development? Want to understand how what you eat and drink can help you to achieve a greater balance? Keep checking back with us for more tips and tricks on how to leave a more meaningful, healthier life. Read Also: Understanding New Age Spirituality Just Not Feeling It? Tips For Getting Your Sex Drive Back 5 Tips To Kick Start Your Fitness Routine When Someone You Love Has An Addiction: 5 Tips On How To Help An Addict

READ MOREDetails