3 Tips to Generate More Leads at Your Next Trade Show

When you are at a trade show, often times you are with a specific group of people that can benefit from your goods or services. For a weekend, day, or few hours, this themed event is attracting attendees who have an interest in learning about different businesses and their offerings.  So, how do you maximize this time to generate leads? Check out our 3 tips as you head to your next trade show.

Set goals.  Show up to the trade show with a mission in mind and a staff that has been clearly informed of the expected outcome of the day. Are you hoping to hone in on one of your strongest assets instead of merely skimming the surface of every moving piece that makes up your business? Be sure that you and your colleagues are clear on what your business does and offers. Determine what materials you need to effectively explain what your business does and make sure all of those materials are in place the day of the show.

Focus.  There will be people buzzing around the entire time and there will be many opportunities for conversation. Realistically, you can not talk to everyone.  However, you do want to talk to as many people as possible.  Budget your time and stay on topic. As you begin a conversation with a prospect, try to gage where they are in the process.  Are they already aware of who you are? Are they even interested? Make sure you are focusing on the conversations that will count.

Credibility. If the stranger you are about to talk to has never heard of your company, why should they take the time to listen to you? Position yourself as an expert in the industry. That being said, take the time at trade shows to network with other experts and talk to news reporters that may be there. If there is an opportunity to partake in a panel, seminar, or discussion, jump on it! These are just more ways to gain exposure and credibility. ​