Make a Positive and Lasting Impression at Trade Shows

by Caryn Smith

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Published on this site: November 27th, 2009 - See more articles from this month

Trade shows are fantastic venues for both vendors and buyers to experience a great deal of variety in one location. While the traffic at a trade show offers a lot of exposure for presenters and the possibility of winning over new customers, you only have a small window of opportunity to attract and engage people. Make sure you are maximizing your chances with a professional presentation. Here are some tips to increase your chances of making a lasting impression.

1. Create an Interesting and Eye-Catching Display
   
   In nature, there's a biological reason why some animals are vibrant colors and others are camouflage -- the brighter species often need to attract attention or mates. Think about your presentation in a similar way.
   
   Avoid blending into the background with a black and white display. The eye is drawn to dynamic colors with strong contrast in lettering. Consider color when you have your signs or banners professionally printed. Though printing in color can be expensive, companies often offer reasonable options for using just two or three colors, or using black ink on colored paper. You want to show your brand, your personality and stand out from the rest. If possible, include attractive photographs to engage the eye.
   
   
2. Keep Your Table Neat
   
   Does your display look clean and organized? It may seem like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many people neglect items off this checklist. Prepare your presentation materials to appear crisp and sharp. You will not impress potential customers with wrinkled, rumpled, or bland banners. Using a tablecloth? Double check that it is spotless and pressed. Organize takeaway materials in a neat manner on the table. You want to avoid looking like you just threw a booth together. A sophisticated display will encourage trust in your product.
   
   
3. Give Visitors Something to Remember You By
   
   Sure, you might draw people to your booth with a large bowl of sinfully sweet snacks. That's one way to lure them in. After they've popped a peppermint, however, what information about your business do they take away?
   
   Lapel pins provide a distinctive way to make a great first impression. Custom-made in various sizes, lapel pins offer high perceived value. They are also affordable for all marketing budgets and far outshine ordinary letter openers and koozies.
   

For added punch, work with lapel pin designers to develop clever pins with greater mass appeal. What's more, while candy wrappers will be thrown in the trash and ink pens will dry up, talented design teams are experts at making lapel pins people want to keep and wear. That means more exposure for your business long after the show has ended.

With these tips, you will be sure to make a strong and professional presentation, creating positive buzz for your company. Good luck.

Caryn Smith is Manager of Lapel Pins R Us. When you need an affordable way to promote at trade shows, lapel pins are an excellent option. Visit http://www.lapelpinsrus.com today for custom lapel pins in just 10 days, guaranteed!