Trade shows are a powerful way to advertise services or products for businesses. Some industries that can benefit from advertising at trade shows include those in the restaurant industry, beauty industry and everything in between. When you are at the trade show, it’s crucial to create effective displays for advertising your company, products and services.

One thing that typically holds true is that a display should contain large graphics, along with hand out flyers or brochures for people to take with them. There are a few other suggestions for advertising at trade shows that can pay off.

Large Banners

Using large banners to advertise at a trade show is an easy way to grab the attention of people passing by. When people are walking around and looking at booths, a large banner with attractive and attention-getting words and images will entice them to come over to your booth. If the trade show is indoors, stick with a glossy banner. If you happen to be outdoors, choose a large banner with a matte finish as it’s easier to read.

Staff

Don’t just have people sitting around. If possible, have someone stand up to talk with people and hand out materials. This means that you can personally give out brochures, business cards and flyers, while also making personal contact. This allows potential customers to ask questions and you can reveal information that is not in the brochures.

Materials

This is one of the most important parts of advertising at trade shows. Before the event, make sure to get top-quality brochures, business cards and flyers. One option is to create packets with flyers and business cards attached. Another option is to create small brochures or use a fold out business cards. Mini brochures are ideal as people can easily carry them with them.

Fold out business cards are mini brochures in a sense but are even smaller and can even fit in a wallet. They are the same size as a typical business card, but as they fold out, they include so much more marketing information. You can include a list of your services, photographs, or even photographs of your wares. The sky is the limit. Anything that is portable will make it easier for a client to literally carry your information around with them.

Free Drawing

An innovative idea is to hold a free drawing at your trade show booth. This is a way to gather leads. Request that people put their business cards into a box and then do a drawing. After it’s over and the winner has claimed the prize, use those contacts for marketing campaigns. Read the rest of this entry »