Women's Life Link Be Well, Be Happy, Be YOU!
Owning your own business can quickly seem like navigating a tornado of operational to-do lists and putting out (metaphorical) fires. Before you know it, you can’t see the forest for the trees and any sense of strategy may have flown out the proverbial window. Guess what, this is how small businesses stay small.
Entrepreneurs get so wrapped up in working in their business that they forget to work on their business. Things like working on branding, finding new business and doing trade shows don’t make it to the to-do list. I would like to focus a bit on the trade show and what it can do for a business in this stage. I will touch on some of the benefits and great reasons to display at a trade show and how to thrive there.
Use Top-Quality Displays
Your first priority should be to create an eye-catching and welcoming space that can’t be ignored by attendees. Know this isn’t always easy when everyone else is clamoring for attention all at once. After all, your goal is to stand out in the crowd. Your display not only needs to be engaging but highly portable and easy to set up on your own or with a modestly sized team.
Consider using a pro company that provides things like hop-up banner by StepRepeat.com. Display props like this easily show off your brand and make a big impression. Banners can also serve as a compelling backdrop that you can build out from to suit your vision.
Give Away Super Cool Promotional Items
Trade show attendees expect freebies, and you certainly don’t want to disappoint with ordinary, boring pens or rulers. Think outside the box with this one. Develop something that they will keep and remember for a long time. Fortunately, we live in an era where you can get your name and logo printed on virtually anything. And be aware that many companies are using more eco-friendly items at trade shows. You will want to avoid single-use plastic and anything that could harm the environment. Here are some good ideas for ecologically conscious giveaways.
Reach Out to Social Influencers
Social influencers can be a big deal for up and coming businesses, especially if you have your sights set on a young and trendy audience. In fact, 40% of millennials believe that their favorite YouTubers understand their needs better than their own friends do.
Because social influencers are significantly more affordable and easy to book than conventional celebs, you just might be able to snag one for your booth. It might be worth finding out who your customers follow online and reaching out to see if you can get them to make an appearance.
Speak Up
Speaking at a trade show is a wonderful way to show attendees how excited, enthusiastic and passionate you are about your products. In an increasingly impersonal age, the personal touch goes a long way to connect to your audience. Speaking at the event on issues that matter to you can generate a lot of interest in your brand and your products.
Relax and Be Yourself!
Finally, a trade show brings the opportunity to meet and network with key players in your industry. Just don’t use them as a chance to pitch co-branding opportunities right out of the gate. Take a step back, relax, be yourself and socialize. That’s the best way to make an impression and build faith and trust in you as a person… interest in your brand will follow!
