Attending a trade show can be an amazing networking opportunity for your business, especially if you are setting up an exhibit booth at the show. Even as a regular attendee, you will have a great chance to promote your business, reach out to potential new clients and vendors, and scope out what’s happening in your industry. Of course, you will need to do some preparation ahead of time to make the most of your trade show attendance.
Schedule Meetings with Organizers and Vendors
Before you head off to a trade show, do a little research about who will be there, who is organizing, and what types of networking opportunities will be available. Just as much as you want to promote your business, other businesses will be there, as well. If possible, contact some organizers, vendors, and industry experts to see about scheduling a quick meeting during the event. Both email and LinkedIn are appropriate venues to reach out, and you might make some great contacts by taking this extra step.
Hype the Event on Social Media
Another way to start event networking before the event itself is to talk about it on social media. Check in on the trade show’s event page, if they have one. Use event-specific hashtags and reach out to key influencers when you post about the trade show. This can keep the conversation going well outside the event dates, either creating buzz about your company beforehand or reminding visitors about your business once they’ve gone back home. In this day and age of technology, this may be the best way to promote your business successfully.
Come Prepared with Business Cards and Traffic Drivers
One of the biggest motivators for attending a trade show is the giveaways that vendors will offer. If you are setting up a booth as a vendor yourself, you will want to make sure that you have stocked up on promotional merchandise to give away to booth visitors. As an attendee, you should carry a full stack of business cards to give out as you make new contacts.
Don’t attend your next trade show without calling Safeguard first. We can help you select the perfect promotional giveaway items to promote your business in the best way possible. We can also provide displays, awards, lanyards, and buttons to help bring even more attention to your booth. Call our office in Tucson at (520) 428-3359.
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