Tradeshow Graphics for your business:

When done correctly, a trade show is one of the best local marketing tools around. Participation in a tradeshow will enable you to stay on top of the latest industry trends, gain competitor insights, make key industry contacts, and further solidify relationships with current customers. The key is to make sure the shows audience aligns well with your product or service. Of course you need to drive the proper attendance to your booth, and follow up with the interested parties. But pulling people in with exhibit graphics that rock mixes with a decent display booth design. You need that overall look and feel to go with your brand, your message, and your offering/service.

In order to have a successful trade show experience, a few marketing ideas you can do prior to the show.

• Contact your existing customers
• Send pre-show mailers, call up prospects to drive traffic to your booth
• Promote the show dates on your website
• Add dates and information to company newsletters
• Send e-mail blasts to your existing customers and prospects
• Announce the launching of a new product/service at the show

Now you are ready to start preparing for your trade show. The first step is to contact the organizers of the trade show. Ask them to provide you with the following information:

• What  type of visitors does the tradeshow attract?
• What is the layout area you will have to display your business?
• What is the size of the trade show display tables?
• Will there be wall space for your company sign?
• Will there be electrical outlets available? If yes, how many?
• Is anything provided when you sign up for a table ie: tablecloths?

Now you’re ready to start putting together your trade show display. Keep these four key elements in mind: know your target audience, have a solid product/service, a knowledgeable salesperson and well designed graphics. Find a designer that understands your companies’ goals and how to design for a trade show. Well designed graphics are the perfect way to impress your audience and get your message across. This includes the design of banners, brochures and other promotional materials. Think of unique ideas which will attract visitors to your area.

Below is a list of the elements you should bring to your trade show:

• Signage. Make sure that your companies name and logo are prominently displayed. It is a good idea to have a raised element with your logo. You want the visitors to see your name from a distance. The logo should be bold and the name of your company should be large.
• Brochures. Bring product and company literature. Some companies have pocket sized brochures designed specifically for a trade show.
• Tablecloth. If a tablecloth is not provided, make sure to get one that goes with your company colors. If it’s within your budget, you can purchase a tablecloth with your logo printed on it.
• Tabletop Displays. There are many different sizes and styles of tabletop displays available. They are designed to sit on top of the table. Most can easily collapse into a small carrying case. They have graphic panels that attach with fasteners, magnets or Velcro.
• Pop-up Displays. These displays are lightweight, easy to transport and can be set up by one person in minutes. The graphics are printed on the fabric. These pop-ups are a great choice if your graphics need rich color saturation and vivid images.
• Presentation Board. If you have the space, you can take presentation board and make bullet points to show how clients can benefit by using your services. Make it stand out with pictures and your logo.
• Giveaways. Company branded paraphernalia will give your visitors something to remember you by. One of the reasons people love going to a trade show is all of the freebies that vendors give out.
• Have a “register to win” bowl on your table. This will help you obtain contact information for your visitors.
• Develop a powerpoint presentation which can be displayed on a laptop at your table or on a raised monitor.

Some additional tips for a successful trade show experience:

• People love giveaways. However you don’t want to encourage attendees to grab a goodie and leave. Don’t put all of your items out at once.
• Make sure your trade show display table is laid out in levels. All larger items should be at the rear and shorter items in the front.
• Don’t overcrowd your area. Have a few products along with literature about your company and business cards.
• Always have someone waiting and available at your booth. Do not leave your booth unattended.

Now you are ready for a successful trade show experience.