For those of you that have done booths at a trade show - what do you take with you? I may have the opportunity to have a table at an event tonight but I'm not sure what to take.

I have a banner being made up by a family member to put at my table, and I'm taking business cards, a marketing flyer that I made and probably an edited list of projects that can be done in an hour. I don't have any promo materials made up yet (pens, etc.)

What else should I take? I already donated 2 hours of service as a door prize, which is how the opportunity came up. Should I have another drawing at my table for people who drop in business cards?

The event is the one I posted about the other day - the foreclosure relief event and it's sponsored by the IL Realtor Association so I'm hoping to target some realtors, etc.

I only have a few hours to prepare but what would you take?

I think I have missed the window, but for future reference this is what I do/have done.

I started out with a foamboard like kids use at science fairs. I created a display with my photo, brief bio, and sample materials. I had brochures, business cards, pencils, pens, and keyfobs for people to take. I used an inexpensive, white sheet to cover the table.

I have since "graduated" to a real display board which is hook-and-loop friendly.



I have my company name and Web address, information on services, and a copy of the ad I have been running in a local business weekly. You will also see (if the photo link works) I have some plastic display frames (purchased at a mega discount outlet) with a brochure, bio, and announcement of my upcoming book. I purchased 2 acryllic brochure displays, business card holder in a clearance rack at an office supply store.

The Ukeep binder in the middle holds copies of letters, articiles I've written, and sample documents I've created. They are in page protectors so interested individuals can review or I can show them as I speak to someone.

I still place pens and keyfobs for people to take. They have my company name and Web address on them.

Even at a tradeshow, you need to get out and approach other vendors. I suggest taking someone with you who can "man" your table while you are mingling. Or, have enough info on the table that you are comfortable leaving it unattended.

Good luck!

__________________
Robin A. Holstein
Robin's Desktop Virtual Administrative Services
My Blog

Robin,
Thank you so much! This is excellent information and will definitely help me with the next one!!

How do you find trade shows and events such as these?

Check with your chambers of commerce and convention and visitors. I've attended business women's events held during our legislative sessions, SBA events ... Just be careful not to spend a lot of money on them.

One of our chambers is holding a Business Showcase in March. For this event, I won't buy a table. I will attend as a "future member" and peddle my services, so-to-speak.

__________________
Robin A. Holstein
Robin's Desktop Virtual Administrative Services
My Blog

This is a great idea. I have never thought of attending trade shows.

A couple of other ideas. A bouquet of flowers for the table and a basket of candy.

People tend to feel a little obligated to stop and chat, even for just a few seconds if you have candy.

I'm glad this topic came up. I am in a trade show this weekend and I had the exact same question! It's the first one that I will do as a VA so I really want it to go well. I like the idea about the candy! Robin where did you ever find the foam board? I have never seen it anywhere even the box stores like Staples.

Hi

Wow, that is spectacular, Robin!! I am so going to use the "science fair" idea. It just is so impressive.

I recently did a trade show. I really enjoyed it. Great to get out in person and connect. Here's some tips that I found helpful. I learned a lot too. Next time hopefully I'll do even better. I had a lot of "why didn't I think of that moments when I was there.

I had a folder with 2 pockets that I put some articles in, my business card, magnet, gift certificate, etc. It was great because then it gave them something tangible to take with them. I have heard back from several from doing this.

I had a notebook so they could sign up and give me their email addresses. My problem here was I couldn't read them. I asked on Facebook and Ruth Martin gave the tip of having a document with squares that they could fill in. So going to do that next time. Also, Paula Belyeu gave the recommendation of having a fishbowl to collect business cards and then have a contest. I love that idea.

I had copies of my books and also lots of business cards. I do several things so I had different business cards made for the different things I do. Did they want to start a business or did they want my PR services? Also I had magnets. People seemed to love the magnets. (thank you VistaPrint!)

Also I had a candy bowl. This did bring people over to the table and one did buy the book so it paid for the candy. (Just get candy you don't like if you sit and eat it all day.) LOL

One tip too is to get there early and set up. That way you can talk to the exhibitors too. I did more networking with them.

Thanks!

Diana Ennen
VirtualWordPublishing.com

Hey,

I don't know your budget, but I would look into the personalized M&Ms. If you can afford some, that would be something to start the talk and they'll remember. (plus - it's CHOCOLATE!!! How can you go wrong with chocolate?)

http://www.mymms.com

I'll read actual post and replies later and add my 2 cents. I saw the topic title and then saw the commercial. I'll be back with more ideas for sure that are more tradeshow-esque!

Cortney