Reasons for Exhibiting at a Trade Show

It is expensive to be an exhibitor at one of the thousands of trade shows yearly in the world so you need to know what your goals are before you commit. If you are new  to trade shows you may want to start with smaller, less expensive local and regional shows to be sure you are getting all that you expect. It also gives you a chance to test what you will offer and how to attract attention and visitors. Trade show visitors love to see all the new industry products and ideas and you can be part of it. Plan well in advance and you may get some early bird special discounts on booth space and extras. Here are some reasons why you may want to be in on all the trade show action.

 *Increase sales and profits by reaching new prospects who may not know you exist.
 *Meet and entertain existing customers you may not have met. You must promote the event in advance to let them know you will be there.
 *Introduce new products and services and try to get some publicity while doing it. Trade shows are where you see all the big guys announce new products and free news coverage.
 *Get sales leads from people you have not contacted in the past. You must follow up within 2 weeks after the show or they quickly forget you.
 *Find new distributors who supply products that you can add to your line and offer to current and new customers.
 *Have show specials to entice customers to commit to a purchase right now. This can fill your machinery that is running way under capacity and get repeat business.
 *Build a mailing list from a fishbowl drawing for a few nice prizes (make it so they don't have to be present to win).
 *Get media publicity by standing out when the media comes though or doing something outrageous.
 *Check out what you competitors are doing (they will be checking you) and meet them. You all want to promote your industry and increase sales for all of you.
 *Hire sales reps who know your industry. They may stop at your booth or meet them in the food court and let them know you may be interested in growing your marketing force.
 *Conduct seminars and workshops which will establish you as an expert in your indistry. People want to associate and purchase from an expert.

Barry is a trade show speaker on marketing and customer satisfaction.  www.idealetter.com