QUESTION: What printed marketing materials will I need to bring with me to distribute on the show floor?
ANSWER: In this day and age, some attendees (and exhibit managers) would prefer if materials were transmitted electronically, in an effort to be “green” or keep their baggage underweight. However, many attendees are still more comfortable with hard copies and you may feel unprepared if you do not bring these essentials:
1.Business cards: It is important that your cards are printed with your current title, phone number, and other correct contact information – it looks sloppy to write on an old card and indicates to your new contact that you do not value them or their business enough to provide a nice, new card.
a.Between the “fish bowl” giveaways (admit it, you cannot resist another chance to win an iPad) and the networking you will do on-site (along with scheduled meetings and other opportunities to connect, you will be attending evening receptions, running into attendees in the hotel lobby, and meeting visitors in your booth), at a typical show you will use more cards than you think you need – bring extra.
2.Brochures, one-sheets, newsletters, flyers, or other materials discussing your company and general offerings: This content should be designed to be easy to understand and provide more information than your welcoming elevator speech but not so much detailed information as to overwhelm a new contact.
3.Materials (like applicable whitepapers, articles, and brochures) that will be of specific interest to the attendees at this event: Consider the event you are attending and tailor some of your materials to that industry – be specific in how you can help these guests. Especially if you are launching a new product, expanding one of your lines of service, or focusing only part of your efforts on something relevant to these consumers, print something that speaks to their needs.
Robyn Davis - Owner, When I Need Help (WINH)
Robyn helps exhibitors improve their results at conventions and trade shows by providing on-site sales and marketing support, pre-/post-event consulting services, and convenient products. Contact Robyn to discuss your situation today!
