Calling all Marketing Managers: here’s a handy checklist for your most successful exhibition yet!
You may have noticed that we’re heading fast into spring, the perfect time of year for rebirth and growth (or so we’re always being told!) Here at Guardian Exhibition and Display, we’re of the opinion that your company can benefit from its very own springtime growth spurt, resulting from positive promotion at exhibitions and trade events.
Getting events just right is
vital, and we know it’s not easy to cover all the bases when you’re busy. So this week our knowledgeable team have been
busy putting their perfectly-groomed heads together to come up with a checklist
of exhibition essentials that no self-respecting Marketing Manager should be
without!
1. Make sure everybody knows your objectives for the show
As a marketing professional, you’ll be used to working at breakneck
speed, ensuring everything is ready to go in the run-up to event day.
One thing we’ve seen time and again however, is that no matter how slick
your display or how engaging your standholders, if your team don’t understand
why they’re there, it’s a good bet they’ll use the wrong tactics for your event
objectives. So if your plan is to
generate a certain number of leads, or focus on a niche section of your
business – make sure everybody knows it!
2. Ensure your exhibition stand displays your message clearly
We’ve said it before, and we’ll keep on saying it…because the importance
of including a well-designed stand at your exhibition just can’t be emphasised
enough. (Yes we’re biased, but we’re
also very experienced in these matters, so trust us!).
Event visitors won’t have time to chat with everyone they pass, so from
the moment they arrive they’ll be on the lookout for the right companies to
approach. A clear and eye-catching stand
will help them sort the wheat (you) from the chaff (your competitors!).
3. Organise all your promotional material in good time for the show
Leaving your promotional material to the last minute is just inviting mistakes
you really don’t need. Get everything
together well in advance, check it thoroughly and make sure it showcases your
company at its clearest, boldest best.
4. Pre-book all your travel arrangements and accommodation
This is another essential not to leave to the last minute. Well, at least not unless you fancy a stay in
the grubbiest B&B in the area, preceded by standing room only on the train.
5. Use social media to promote your appearance at the show
Social media equals free publicity, so get hashtagging! Remember that social media has different uses
– employ Twitter for short, snappy updates, Instagram for some fun pictures of
your pre-show prep, and Facebook to profile who visitors are going to meet on
exhibition day. Encourage your followers
to retweet and share your updates for maximum coverage.
6. Use a quick and easy method to collate leads
There are plenty of whizzy apps available to help you capture leads, but
even a handwritten form is better than nothing…as long as your team know exactly
what they need to do, and what information they have to get for the
all-important follow-up. Which brings us
to…
7. Give clear instructions for lead follow-up after the show
You need to keep up the momentum after the
initial buzz from your event has passed. Don’t rely on anyone contacting you –
ensure your team is ready to follow up quickly, and watch all that new business
come flooding in!
Looking for even more ways to make an impactful
impression at your next event? Our
friendly team is always happy to advise – simply contact us and see what your
business and our experience can create together.
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