Posted in Trade Show Displays Blogs
The very best trade show displays come from proper research, in-depth planning, purchase or rental of the display from caring professionals, pre-show marketing, professional execution of all aspects of your exhibit, and post-show marketing and follow up. After all, you only have a precious few seconds to grab attention. Of course the main piece of that is the actual display itself. Many exhibitors spend thousands of dollars, even up to a million to get the best exhibit. Whatever the budget, there are clearly several components that are used that help you get the best possible display for your investment. Let’s take a look at some of these components:Research: Attend a few trade shows to see what competitors are doing that seem to be effective. Take a look at trade show providers (online) to see what is available that will work. Note: When you select a display vendor, be sure that their client support is top-notch and that they are interested in lifetime customers. Service is just as important as money matters.
Graphics: The graphics chosen, separate the best trade show displays from the lesser ones. At maximum, your graphics must be a show-stopper. This is achieved by incorporating bright, bold, crisp, colorful graphics –the company logo is top center – with a clear and concise message. And that message should be directly in line with trade show goals and objectives.
Space: It is proven, that open and inviting space is very effective at pulling people in and retaining them for a while. It is fun to accessorize an exhibit, but you must avoid clutter and cramped space. Having chairs available is a huge plus; most attendees are on their feet for long lengths of time and you can offer the chance to relax a bit.
Multimedia: Right for the start – during planning – you should be deciding on the use of multimedia, including TV/video, computers, projectors, and even music. Plan this from the start, not as a last minute inclusion. People are naturally drawn to moving images, and sound. Be certain that all screens and monitors are at eye level for the average person.
Promotional models: There are trained professional models – male and female – that are specifically used for standing outside your booth and drawing people in. Often times they are not that expensive. This is a very nice touch for any quality exhibit.
Kiosks: Kiosks are great for games with prizes, live demonstrations, presentations, and so much more. Again, this is a form of multimedia that is a natural attention-getter. Many of the best trade show displays utilize kiosks to grab and retain the responsiveness of attendees at the show.
Giveaways: Free USB drives (“thumb drives”), food (if proper), pens, coffee mugs, calendars, and gift certificates for goods and services – are all excellent giveaways. Avoid putting your logo on throw-away items; stick with items that are retained after the show and that serve some function.
Drawing: A well-organized drawing for a bigger prize is always an excellent event to include that will make your booth special and memorable.
Common sense: Always do things that are in line with the trade show theme. For example, don’t put models in skimpy swimwear in a more formal trade show. A little common sense goes a long way.
Know your numbers: Spending big dollars is worthwhile as long as you research thoroughly, plan well in advance, set realistic goals, execute the exhibit extremely well, do pre-show marketing/post-show marketing, and use a comprehensive follow-up plan. The return on your trade show investment depends on understanding your budget figures and projected goals.
In closing, the best trade show displays don’t just happen, they are thought out carefully, and executed according to a strict plan. And finally, select a trade show professional advisor when purchasing your exhibit. Your trade show supplier should seek to help you genuinely, and gain a lifetime client.
