Mistake No. 7: Haphazard seminar selections
Seminars can be essential components of a successful trade show event. Attending too many – or going to ones that are less important – can waste valuable time that could be spent interacting with vendors and colleagues.
“Sit down ahead of time and ask: ‘Which seminars relate to the three goals I have established for this show,” Powell says.
Rather than attend a questionable presentation, check to see whether it will be recorded for later viewing on social media or a website.
Bonus tip: Introduce yourself to seminar speakers after their presentations, thanking them and exchanging business cards. Such contacts can be valuable later when you have questions only they can answer.
Conclusion
If you follow the tips from these experts, you will have a much greater chance of making a trade show pay off.
Mental preparation, however, is key.
“Too often, we let trade shows happen to us rather than plotting out how we are going to get the best return from them,” Powell says. “Trade shows are important tools for advancing an organization, but it takes a good strategy to make it all happen. Set a goal, make a plan, return home and implement.”
Phillip M. Perry is an award-winning journalist who is published widely in the fields of business management, workplace psychology and employment law.
