Gadget Guide: Trade Show Essentials – Top 10 Must-Have Tools of the Trade Show Trade

Trade shows are big business – 3 to 4 days of intense power promotion and networking where the secret to success is standing out from the crowd.

Top 10 Must-Have Tools of the Trade Show Trade

#1: Stand Out Banner – If you are going to invest in participating in a trade show, go the extra mile and get a banner (and lighting) that makes your booth stand out. Your banner must make it clear what you are selling and how it benefits your target audience right away or you will lose their interest.

#2: Video Camera – Need extra content for your blog? Grab a few in-person interviews at the trade show with a pocket video camera. Even better, when current customers stop by your booth to rave about your product, ask them for a quick video testimonial.

#3: Meeting Desk or Comfortable Seating – Trade shows are about meeting and doing business with existing or new customers so create a space within your booth to sit down and discuss the details of whatever deals you hope to close.

#4: Demo Video – If your product is in the least bit confusing, create a video demo to play in the background for those occasions when you are busy talking to another person and a potential new customer wanders by.

#5: Padded Carpet – Standing all day for multiple days in a row takes its toll on your tootsies. Not only will a plush carpet take a bit of the edge off, if it’s a distinctive color, it will draw people into your booth.

#6: Marketing Collateral and Order Forms – Two words: bring plenty. Store extra copies in your (artfully hidden) in-booth storage and replenish frequently.

#7: Press Release – Often the media is in attendance at events looking for interesting stories. Keep a stash of press releases and media kits in your booth to hand out to any media who stop by.

#8: Emergency Flip-Flops – Just in case your ‘Never-Fail’ ultra comfortable shoes fail you, keep a pair of flip-flops in your bag for when your feet can’t stand it any longer. If flip-flops are too casual, bring along a pair of mules to give blistered heels a break.

#9: Fun Promotional Giveaways – Almost every booth has a candy jar, branded swag or other such bribes so get creative and make it more fun by adding a level of interaction.

#10: Call to Action – Vote on a new color, enter a draw, request a quote, or whatever you want people who visit you booth to do – just make it crystal clear.

Add this list to the plethora of other gadgets, including duct tape, chargers for your electronic gizmos, snacks and refreshments, reusable folding shopping bags, a ridiculous amount of business cards, and of course, rolling luggage.

How do you make the most of your trade show participation? We’d love to hear your ideas! Please share in the comments below!