Your Exhibit: A Parade in Reverse
Trade shows are like a parade in reverse - you have about three seconds to capture an attendee’s attention. Your exhibit, ideally, should be an accurate - and aesthetically pleasing - representation of the quality your company embodies.
Getting Started
As you ponder the size, type and functionality, ask yourself the following questions:
- What are your marketing objectives for this show?
- How is your organization perceived in the industry? Do you hope to change that perception?
- Will your marketing objectives change for each show?
- What’s your ideal marketing environment (ie. private meetings, demonstrations)?
- At how many events do you exhibit nationally?
- What type of exhibit space will you reserve (island, inline, etc.)?
- How much are you able (or willing) to invest in your display?
- What’s most important to you - design or cost?
- Who is your audience? Does it vary by show or region?
Choosing a Trade Show Exhibit Display Company
It’s vital that you research the exhibit houses with which you’re interested in partnering. What is their reputation? Do they offer a full range of services? Will you get a dedicated account management team? What does their Website look like? Believe it or not, a Website - like an exhibit - can be quite telling with regards to marketing expertise and overall quality.
The best place to begin researching suppliers is to visit a trade show and chat with exhibitors. Ask about their suppliers’ level of service and ability to materialize what the exhibitor hoped to communicate.
When you’ve chosen one - or a few - potential exhibit partners, make sure to provide all information necessary: budget, time line, decision-making process, marketing objectives, etc. Try to avoid sending a general RFP or another form of “stock” invitation to bid. You’ll get the best results from direct, personalized communication.
Tags: catalyst exhibits, supplier, trade show