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9 Things I’ll Do Differently At My Next Exhibit to Avoid What Happened

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Back when I started selling graphic design in 1998, I quickly learned the value of marketing and that in-person contact with potential clients is the most rewarding form of promotion. Most small business owners can attest to the roller coaster that is entrepreneurship. When things are good (i.e. You have so many projects that you simply don’t have the time to do much, outside of delivering your product or service) your marketing efforts can slow to a crawl. With the year nearing an end and demand slowing down, I was recently afforded some time to exhibit for the first time in a while. It wasn’t a disaster. But factor in technical issues, last minute decision-making and chilly drizzle (it was an outdoor evening event), and by the end of it, I was spinning my wheels on how to make things better. Here are 9 nuggets of advice I’d be remiss if I didn’t pass on.

1. Plan, plan, plan

There’s always a chance things may not go accordingly. But planning can eliminate the probability of mishaps. Write “before”, “after” and “during checklists. Start early to eliminate last-minute chaos.

2. Get the word out

Let attendees know you’ll be. In many cases, event facilitators assign a booth number to each exhibitor once they’ve made a commitment. If this is the case, share your booth number via email, social media and by word of mouth so attendees know where to find you during the event.

3. Brand your booth consistently

Consider all of the visual elements you plan to use at your exhibit. Items like a tent (if outdoors) or fabric walls, table covering, a banner, some kind of table-top display, promotional prints (business cards, brochures or fact sheets, sign-in sheets), your laptop, products,  giveaways, clothing and possibly more. A great way to ensure that your branding is consistent is to do a dry run. Set up your booth at your office, the way it will look the day of your event. Step back and consider the outer and interior design of your space. Is it a place you’d want to stop if you were a potential client? Jot down changes you’d like to make and make it happen. If it’s not in your budget to do it all at once, don’t let that stop you from presenting, instead, make updates piece by piece until your visuals are where you want them in the future.

4. Quid pro quo

Give something away in exchange for something else. If your giveaways look good to attendees, they will likely flock to your booth and won’t mind joining your email list of filling out a form or two. You don’t have to be giving away award show swag either. Something as simple as a t-shirt can leave a lasting impression. Be as creative as you can within your budget.

5. Be vocal

If you’re like me, it takes a minute to warm up to a crowd. Practicing your elevator pitch routinely before the event will help eliminate anxiety. Remember that attendees may feel just as timid about approaching your booth as you feel about soliciting to them. At a minimum, a warm greeting may inspire them to stop and talk or eventually circle back for a visit.

6. Troubleshoot your technology

Test your machinery, equipment, and presentations the night before, then arrive early enough to do a dry run after you’ve set up your exhibit and before the attendees arrive.

7. Dress the part

Wear clothing that’s consistent with your visual brand colors. You are the most integral part of your visual brand. Consider the weather and the temperature of the venue.

8. Prepare for Murphy’s Law

Know that some things don’t always go as planned. Be flexible. If you run into unexpected issues, try to adjust as quickly as you can and know that being present is half the battle. At least you’re not at home binge-watching old episodes of Walking Dead staving off the guilt of playing hooky on your business.

9. Pack for the next one.

Once your event is over, pack up your exhibit like you’re heading to the next one. Store your exhibit equipment and materials in an easily accessible space. If (like me) you had room for improvement, be sure to switch out old items with upgraded ones as you receive them over time.

Exhibiting is one of the best ways to learn more about potential clients and build brand awareness. Planning for it can be both exciting and stressful. Using the tips outlined above are a great place to start to ensure your booth is a success.

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Filed Under: BLOG

Roswieta Glass
Roswieta Glass
December 4, 2022.
Bulb Graphics is at the top of their game! After years of experience with the highest quality of service we applaud the never ending excellence of Bulb Graphics. This company has the ability to manifest thoughts in brillant ways, far above the ask. Everytime, we are amazed at the outcome of our projects, they are clean and always professionally trendy! Bulb Graphics, LLC is for sure, the best in the business! Rose M. Glass Business Woman
Audrey Galex
Audrey Galex
December 2, 2022.
Joey Johnson’s warmth and creativity shine through in every project she touches. She brings a sensibility of wonder and joy to all of her endeavors, from her eye-catching craft projects for kids to her up-cycled and recycled fabric projects. She is flexible and professional and a joy to work with. I look forward to seeing how she will next put her talents to use in the future!
Christina Evans
Christina Evans
November 30, 2022.
Joey at Bulb Graphics is a pleasure to work with! Her graphics are beautiful, her turnaround time is stellar, and her products are high quality. It is amazing how she brings our ideas to life through her graphics. We are very pleased with her work and she is our graphic designer of choice for the foreseeable future! I highly recommend! You will not be disappointed.
Adrienne Montgomery
Adrienne Montgomery
November 30, 2022.
Joey is so resourceful and creative. She listened to my ideas and created an impressive logo for my business. She's thoughtful and professional. Timely and innovative and such a pleasure to work with.
Foodlove with Anna
Foodlove with Anna
November 30, 2022.
I needed a design for my catering business logo and all I can say is wow! The design is more beautiful than I could ever imagine. The finished product was completed in less time than I anticipated and the price was more than reasonable for the work. The logo they created capture the essence of my brand perfectly. I will definitely use them again and I’d recommend their services to anyone needing designs.
Monica McGhie
Monica McGhie
November 29, 2022.
I found Joey online and have been working with her for over a year. She is creative, fast, and reliable. Her files are clean and technical, and she fully understands the needs of her customers. She takes feedback well and is an absolute pleasure to work with. I can't recommend her more highly.
Coleen Stanley
Coleen Stanley
November 29, 2022.
I met Joey in 2015 on a project for a government client. She was honestly the best graphic designer that I had ever worked with - extremely creative, professional, and manages to deliver before deadlines every time. Since then, I have commissioned her for every project that I have been in need of graphic design services - branding, logos, eBooks, etc. She always nails my vision and I am so grateful to have crossed paths with such a talented and creative mind!
M. Mitchell
M. Mitchell
November 29, 2022.
I have had the pleasure of doing business with this company for a couple of years. They are Talented, Professional & Efficient. Highly recommended.
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FAQ

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