Stand Out: Timeline for Managing Your Trade Show Presence like a Pro
According to the Center for Exhibit Industry Research, it costs 62 percent less to close a lead generated from a trade show than one originated from the field.
But, even if you’re a trade show veteran, it’s impossible to just arrive on show day, pop up a display, and expect leads to roll in.
Here's a timeline that will help you maximize your exhibitor investment.
12 MONTHS OUT
Select industry trade show(s) relevant to your target audiences
Create a budget, forecast a ROI
Contract booth space
Choose engaging individuals to staff booth
Apply for speaker/panelist opportunities
9 MONTHS OUT
Create measurable goals (i.e. leads generated, meetings conducted)
Craft messages that will engage show attendees
Plan a multi-media outreach before, during and after the trade show (i.e. phone calls, emails, public relations and social media)
Determine a booth presence (i.e. booth development, collateral, branded merchandise, etc.)
Ensure show has your logo in the right form, company description and any other opportunities promised in contract
6 MONTHS OUT
Get booth presence into production including signage, rentals, branded merchandise and collateral
Finalize promotional sweepstakes, games, instant wins to attract visitors
Order comfortable, yet stylish branded apparel for staff (i.e. golf shirts, button downs or half zips)
3 MONTHS OUT
Ensure branded merchandise and apparel are ordered, confirm delivery date
Confirm travel plans for staff and booth materials
Launch pre-show marketing
Design and send speaker/panel slides, if applicable
1 MONTH OUT
Finalize messages and materials for show follow up
Schedule meetings with prospects, distributors and customers
Carefully plan participation in education and networking activities
Download trade show app, if applicable
Plan to ship materials early to avoid rush charges
1 WEEK OUT
Complete show talking points and staff training, make expectations clear
Confirm arrival shipping dates for booth, promotional items and materials
Amp up pre-show marketing
1 DAY | 1 WEEK AFTER
Analyze leads and launch follow up campaign
Meet with team to discuss how well goals were met and how to be more successful in the future
Learn how ZOOM! Branding Group can help you with these initiatives and many more.
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ZOOM! Branding Group, powered by American Solutions for Business, is a one-stop branding solution provider with tremendous access and buying power. In fact, we have more than 3,500 national resources we can use to design a simple, sustainable and results-oriented brand presence for any business, minus the hefty agency price tag.
Check out our idea center. Or contact us at 440.343.3362 or email jartiste@zoombrandinggroup.com and we'll work with you to find the perfect solution to make a big impression.
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