Maximize Your Tradeshow Presence Without a Booth
No booth? NO PROBLEM! Standing out at a tradeshow can be done without a booth. While hosting a booth is traditionally the best way to draw in new business and elevate your company, there are also ways to navigate a tradeshow without one.
Today we’re offering tips that will help your team, and your brand elevate during a tradeshow – even without a booth. Here’s how…
EMAIL MARKETING BEFORE YOU GO
Don’t forget to tell people that you’ll be at the show. They will naturally be looking for your company’s booth so tell them where you’ll be and invite a conversation before you ever hit the show floor. According to several resources we found, email marketing remains a highly effective channel for driving business growth.
GET ACTIVE WITH MEDIA OUTREACH & PLACEMENTS
Public relations and media outreach prior to the show is an important component of maximizing your presence without a booth on the floor. From scheduling media meetings to press releases to mentions in any trade show editorial round ups, can encourage folks to seek out you and your brand at the show.
INVEST IN SPONSORSHIPS & ADVERTISING
Find out which sponsorship and advertising opportunities are available for non-exhibitors and invest in one that accentuates your brand. Whether you’re sponsoring a 5K, a cocktail reception or even purchasing signage in a high traffic location, your brand can stand out during the show.
ATTEND EDUCATION SESSIONS
Attending education sessions encourage networking! Stand out by asking thoughtful questions of the speaker(s) or simply introduce yourself to folks seated around you and watch the sparks fly. Remember to carry your business cards with you at all times and hand them out to anyone who is willing to take it.
ENJOY PARTIES & COCKTAIL HOURS
Take it from us, everyone loves a good party at fresh produce trade shows. Several shows offer cocktail receptions throughout the event to ensure they’re offering networking opportunities for attendees. There are also usually opportunities to congregate at the show hotels after major programming or even late night that ignite community and business. At DMA, we built our business by attending happy hours!
NETWORK IN THE HOTEL LOBBY
Another great place to meet and strike up a conversation is in the hotel lobby! There are a lot of people who typically loiter and hang around the lobby when they need a break from the trade show floor. Something to note though is that you will need to be proactive in your efforts to connect with people. Don’t be afraid to shake a few strangers’ hands and start conversations around what your business can do for the industry.
All of these tips utilize communication and marketing efforts outside of hosting a booth to ensure your brand’s presence is SEEN at the show! Being proactive before the doors open while keeping up the momentum is key to maximizing the benefits of a trade show without a booth.
