Trade Show Displays, Booths, and Exhibits

Trade Show Exhibits: Successful Marketing Strategies to Boost Leads

2012-01-02T18:30:00.000-08:00

Trade show success doesn’t just happen, it takes months of preparations and dedication to create ideal trade show displays, prepare your staff, and design the marketing materials that will be handed out at the event. Here are a few surefire ideas on how to prepare and promote your display booth for ultimate results at the event.

Train Your Staff

The people that will be staffing your trade show exhibit will be representing your company at the event. As important as it is that they have a smile on their face and an enthusiastic personality, it is equally as important they have the product knowledge to back it up. It is inevitable that booth visitors will eventually have questions for you, so make sure your employees know the inner workings of every product sold. Consider holding a seminar for these employees a couple days before the trade show in order to refresh their minds and make sure they know these questions.

Have a Marketing Plan

Your marketing plan should attract more traffic to your display stand and should take place before, during, and after the event. Before the trade show, send out direct mail with your booth number and the date and time you will be at your exhibit display. You can also reach out to your followers and fans through social media to inform them of the event. During the trade show, write live blogs about all the festivities surrounding your trade show exhibit, whether you are holding drawings, have live demonstrations, or will host a seminar. After the trade show, get back on the computer and reach out to your social networking community to see what everyone who attended thought and let those who weren’t able to make it know what they missed.

Confirm Details of Event and Show Display

Prior to the show, make a few calls to confirm your booth location, as well as to your display booth supplier to ensure your booth will be delivered on time and at the correct location. If you still have some time before the event to pick the right booth location, and then make sure it is near high-traffic areas, such as near entrances and exits. If you are in need of some assistance in picking the right show booth, give Smash Hit Displays a call and we’ll lead you in the right direction.

Print Marketing Materials

Print brochures, literature, business cards, product sheets, and promotional items and place them all together in a neat packet that your leads can take with them before they leave. It can be expensive to print out all of these materials, so make sure the recipients of this information are very interested in your products or services before giving them away.

Have a Follow up Plan

Have a team meeting prior to the trade show to make sure you and the other employees are on the same page when it comes to following up with leads after the trade show. Will a specific department follow up or will each person be responsible for following up with their leads? How soon after the event will you begin making these calls or sending thank-you cards? Make sure you know the answer to these questions prior to the show.

Trade shows are one of the best ways to get the exposure for your business that you need to succeed. With these tips and well-designed trade show exhibits, you’ll be gaining new clients in no time!

Have Effective Trade Show Displays by Thinking Like an Attendee

2011-12-21T10:48:00.000-08:00

Picture this – you are walking down the aisles at a convention, scoping out all of the different trade show displays you walk by, and there is one display that catches your eye. What is it that draws you into that show display over the next? Is it the enormous size of the trade show exhibit? Do they have graphics that make the entire booth pop? Or is it simply the activities that are taking place around the show booth? As an exhibitor, it is important to step back and view yours or other display booths from the attendee’s point of view. Here are some tips from Smash Hit Displays on how to make your booth displays rise above the rest from an attendee’s perspective.

1. Make the Booth Exhibit Stand Out with Accessories
Whether you are using table top displays or 20x20 truss systems, the right accessories can take your ordinary trade show exhibit from boring to extraordinary. One popular choice is trade show flooring because it adds sophistication to all display exhibits and comes in a variety of styles and textures to fit every exhibitor’s needs, including hardwood flooring, carpet, bamboo flooring, and dye sub mats. Another accessory that would make your display system pop is to add monitors to your booth. They can be added to almost any trade show display and will allow you to incorporate videos or presentations into your booth without taking up any more room. It’s an innovative touch that will definitely get people to notice your display stand.

2. Repetition is Key
The more a message is repeated, the more it is remembered. The same is true at trade shows and conventions. Use the same taglines, mission statements, or slogans across your marketing material in order to ensure your audience will remember your marketing message long after the show is over. Also, if you plan on handing out promotional items, print the message somewhere on the product.

3. Pick the Right Giveaway Item for Your Business
It is pointless to shell out hundreds or thousands of dollars on products that will either get thrown away or have nothing to do with your business at all. Anyone can hand out pens or rulers, but how much of an impact do you think those products will make if everyone is handing them out? Instead, take your time shopping for the perfect giveaway product that is similar to your products or services in order to be remembered. For example, if you work for business that builds houses, magnets that are shaped like a house with your company's contact information would be effective because it would be seen every time the recipient opened their fridge, yet also has a look that will clearly tell them who you are. Refrain from handing out items that can be thrown away or eaten, such as candy.

Trade show displays are one of the best investments you can make for your business. However, without proper planning and these 3 tips, you will not be as successful at the show as you could be. It may also be helpful to walk the trade show floors as an attendee to help you get ideas for what should be incorporated into your booth exhibit.

3 Ideas on How to Have Successful Trade Show Displays

2011-11-22T09:21:00.000-08:00

As effective as giveaways, drawings, and brochures can be at getting you leads at trade show, it is the trade show displays that will draw your audience to you in the first place. A well-designed show display can bring in a large crowd, but a poorly designed display system may end up hearing crickets. So, what are some things that can be done to bring in attendees and get results? Here are just a few ideas to help you make the most of your convention booth.

Know the Trade Show

Before you can begin designing the perfect trade show booth, it is important to know everything about the show. You should especially know who will be at the event (exhibitors and attendees) because this will help you design your marketing campaign and graphics at the event. Also, find out what items the trade show will provide for you. This will help determine what it is you need to bring.

Will You Be Traveling to the Trade Show?

Knowing this is imperative because if you are traveling, lightweight trade show exhibits would be the way to go. They are much easier to pack up and are less expensive to ship or transport. For example, pop up displays are one of the most lightweight display systems available, making it the perfect traveling trade show display. On the other hand, if you are going to an event in your area, truss displays would be a great option since they have unique designs with open layouts, but they can be a little heavier than other display booths for trade shows.

Signage

Attendees should know exactly who your business is as they walk by. Having headers on your display system, hanging banners above the booth, or banner stands in front of the trade show exhibit can all be effective at promoting your business. Your logo, company’s name, and maybe a few bullet points with the benefits of your products or services would help your audience remember you long after the show, as well as helping them determine if they are in need of what your company has to offer.

Trade shows are excellent at promoting products or services in a venue filled with potentially interested attendees. However, without a well-designed trade show exhibit, you may be missing out on the opportunity to gain leads and new customers.

For more information on how to have a successful trade show exhibit contact Smash Hit Displays.

Tasks to Give Your Staff at Trade Show Exhibits

2011-10-21T23:28:00.000-07:00

Trade shows have their busy times, as well as their downtimes when trade show booth traffic tends to be much lower. During these slow times, instead of having all of your staff standing around put them to work! Below is a list of jobs you should delegate to each member of your show display staff.

Check out the Competition

Have one or two people walk the trade show floors as attendees to scope out your competitors’ trade show exhibits. Find out what these companies are doing to gain traffic, generate leads, and keep attendees interested. Also, observe the look of their display booth to see if it is organized or designed in a way that yours is not but should be.

Greet Visitors

Don’t let a single person enter your convention booth without being greeted. If attendees are being ignored, there’s a good chance they will leave your trade show display in search of one that will give them the attention they want. Designate this special task to someone who is upbeat, friendly, and can keep a smile on their face.

The Go-To Person for the Tough Questions

Even if everyone on your staff is brand new to your company, make sure there is at least one person who is knowledgeable enough to answer any and all questions asked by visitors at your display system. One way to prepare your staff, and the one person you give this job to, is to hold a training seminar a day or two before the trade show. Teach them everything there is to know about your products/services, including the technical stuff.

Giveaways or Booth Attractions

Some exhibitors prefer to hold a presentation or demonstration, as well as hand out promotional items. Whoever holds this role should have an outgoing personality and have the gift of relaying a large amount of product/service information in a few minutes (if you are holding presentations or demos).

Following up

Once the trade show is over, designate one person to follow up with all of the leads generated from the event. A great way of collecting this information is to have everyone use lead forms to collect all of the data on.

It depends on the size of the event, but this list should help give everyone a job at your portable display .

Marketing Ideas for Your Trade Show Booth

2011-10-05T15:24:00.000-07:00

Trade shows can be an extremely competitive, yet profitable environment. A variety of trade show booths compete for the attention of everyone who is walking down the aisle, in hopes these people will stop at their booths. First of all, the design of the show displays can make all the difference between intriguing attendees to check it out or causing them to look right past your exhibit for a more eye-catching one.

As you design your convention display, think about billboards you see along the highway. They have minimal text and pictures, yet they usually have a message that would make drivers want to check out their website or give them a call. Trade show exhibits should be set up the same way in order to easily be seen and understood as people are walking down the aisles.

The look of your booth is not the only thing that will make your audience prefer your booth over the competition. Here are just a few ideas to help your display booth at trade shows stand out among the others.

Use QR Codes

These state-of-the-art coding systems will take attendees to their website by simply scanning it with a smart phone (iPhone, Droid, Blackberry, etc.) It’s an excellent way to inform your audience of what your company does and sells without overloading them with brochures and other literature.

Contests

A great way to draw in a crowd is to hold contests, such as drawings. Have fish bowls or boxes at the entrance of your convention booth to easily allow everyone to enter the contest. The items should be big, like iPads or even one of your products. No one is going to enter a contest if it’s for a coffee mug.

Hire a Pro

Professional traffic builders are trained to bring in a large crowd. Some ideas would be magicians, speakers, and massage therapists to give 5 minute chair massages.

These are just a few ideas to help you get the results you want at the display booth. For more tips, give Smash Hit Displays a call at (877) 215-5355.

3 Steps to Effectively Follow up at Trade Show Booths

2011-09-26T10:47:00.000-07:00

Following up with leads collected at trade show displays can make the difference between having successful show displays and failing at the event. If this final step is not accomplished, all of your hard work collecting those leads would be for nothing. Here are a few ways you can effectively follow up and get results at your trade show booth.

Print Lead Forms

These days, most exhibitors are preferring electronic lead forms because they are more convenient and easier to keep track of. But what would you do if your electronic system suddenly stopped working? Bring plenty of printed lead forms to make sure you have all of their information on hand. These forms should contain their names, companies, position in the company, contact information, and any other information needed.

Classify Leads

All of your leads should be followed up, but some are closer to buying your products or services than others. Categorize each lead form with a simple code that both you and your staff would use to easily determine which leads are hot. One code example would be using A for hot leads, B for semi-interested leads, and C for not-as-interested leads. Writing one of these letters at the top of each form to decide which ones should be followed up first.

Have a System

Know who will follow up with leads from your trade show exhibit, how long after the show you will follow up, and whether you will call, email, or send thank-you cards. Set up a meeting with your staff prior to the convention to make sure everyone understands what system will be used.

This is a critical step in getting the results you want at trade show exhibits. These are a few tips from Smash Hit Displays to help make you a hit at the next event.

What Your Nonverbal Cues Could be Saying to Attendees at Trade Show Displays

2011-09-06T10:45:00.000-07:00

You have spent weeks prior to the trade show rehearsing what you were going to say to each attendee. When the big day finally arrives, you get considerably less leads than you had anticipated. What could have gone wrong? As attendees visit a variety of trade show displays at the event, they are not only listening to what you are saying, but also what you are not saying. The way you interact with attendees at your show display can play a huge role in whether or not your booth visitors will turn into new customers. Here are some of the most common nonverbal cues that could be keeping potential new clients away.

Sitting

By sitting at display systems, it will appear that you are on a break or are bored. This definitely will not leave a good impression to the people who are walking by. It’s important to stay on your feet at all times as a sign of respect to attendees.

Constantly Watching the Clock

After 8 to 10 long hours spent at your trade show exhibit, I’m sure you are ready to go home. As true as this may be, attendees should not know how anxious you are to leave. If they see you watching the clock, they will assume you have somewhere more important to be. Refrain from watching the clock in front of visitors to your display booth as they will assume you don’t have time to help them.

Getting Ready to Leave Before Time is Up

Let’s say you have 10 minutes before the trade show is over, so you decide to start packing up your convention display, putting your coat on, grabbing your purse, cell phone, or other items, and leaving a few minutes before time is up. This will not only reflect negatively on you, but also on your company. To an outsider looking in, it will appear as if you can’t be bothered and may be disrespectful to neighboring exhibitors if they are in the middle of a discussion with a potential client and you are busy tearing down your trade show exhibit.

Whether you are using banner stands, pop up displays, or custom displays, it is important to have a staff that will represent your company in a positive light. If you or your staff are doing the previous 3 nonverbal cues I mentioned, you will not get the results you want. Good luck to you at your next trade show from Smash Hit Displays!

What to Have With You at Trade Show Displays

2011-08-29T14:46:00.000-07:00

With all of the people that will be coming in and out of trade show displays at the show, it is important that you and the rest of the staff are wearing proper attire. You should not only look professional, but should also be comfortable; the more comfortable you are, the happier you will be. Here are a few pointers on how to prepare for your convention display.

Shoes

Since you will be on your feet for hours at a time, the right pair of shoes can make all the difference. I don’t mean casual tennis shoes, but there are plenty of professional-looking shoes that are also made to protect your feet.

Clothing

First of all, think about the size of the trade show because the more people that will be there, the warmer it will be. Wearing a suit may not be entirely practical when you are in a packed venue. Since the convention will be cooler in the morning and warmer in the afternoon, dress in layers so that you are able to stay comfortable at your portable display.

Arrange Lunch Breaks

A big display booth no-no is eating or drinking in your exhibit. Make sure there are enough people staffing the trade show booths to leave for a lunch break. Trust me, you are going to need a break to re-energize, so use this time to grab a bite to eat, have some coffee, and relax.

Breathe Mints

If your breath is not great, attendees probably won’t want to talk to you long. Mints will definitely help keep these potential new clients around a little bit longer.

Slow Times

At some point, traffic may slow down quite a bit. During this time, you or one of your fellow staffers should leave the trade show display to connect with other exhibitors or attendees you meet at other show displays. Always make sure there is at least one person at your booth in case you do get a little bit of traffic.

Whether using pop up displays or banner stands, these tips will help keep you and your staff happy during the long hours spent at display booth.

5 Ways to Promote Your Trade Show Booth

2011-08-25T09:51:00.000-07:00

Promoting your trade show booth is an important step in a successful event. If your target audience isn’t aware that your company will be at the trade show, they may not plan on stopping by your exhibition booth. Here are a few tips to effectively promoting your show display and getting the traffic you want.

1. Get a List of Registered Attendees

Contact the trade show organizers to obtain a list of attendees who are registered for the convention. Not only will this give you an idea of who will be at the event, but you will also be able to send direct mail pieces to them with the details of your display booth. Make sure to include your booth number, location, and an incentive (free promotional product, etc.).

2. Use Social Media

The nice thing about using social media costs little to no money and reaches a much larger audience than print advertisements. If using Twitter, use hash tags related to the show in your tweets and interact with other tweeters who are chatting about the same trade show. If using Facebook, post photos and videos of your show display.

3. Write a Blog About it

A few weeks before your booth will be lined up with other trade show displays at the convention, write a blog about the show. Keep your loyal readers informed of what you are doing to prepare for the upcoming event and what they can expect to see at your portable booth.

4. Contact Other Exhibitors

If you have already began networking with other businesses who will be at the same show, contact them beforehand to find out if you can place a product or two of yours in their display systems to help draw traffic to you. They will more than likely be willing to do this for you as long as you are willing to do the same for them.

5. Be Consistent

Keep the theme of your trade show booth consistent with your promotional items, such as literature, giveaways, and trade show signage. A consistent trade show exhibit will be remembered long after the event.

Don’t expect to just show up at the exhibit and get a huge amount of traffic; it takes work and planning to reach those results. With these tips and well-designed trade show exhibits from Smash Hit Displays, you are on your way to getting the results you want!

How to Have Successful Presentations at Trade Shows

2011-08-16T05:51:00.000-07:00

Holding presentations or seminars at your trade show booth is a great way to inform attendees of your products or services. It will make your audience remember you and display system long after the event is over if done correctly. One of your goals for holding presentations at the convention should be to increase traffic to your display booth, but it isn’t done correctly, the crowd you did attract may have no interest in sticking around to hear the rest of your presentation. Here are a few ideas to help make your next trade show display experience a successful one with the use of presentations.

Keep it Short

Attendees have a short attention span, especially when there are so many other tradeshow displays trying to win them over. Keep your speech short and to-the-point in order to have your audience absorb the information you relayed much more. Between 3 and 5 minutes is the perfect length of time for a presentation. If attendees have questions about your products or services after you are done, allow them to come up and speak with you.

Have a Visual Aide

You audience will remember the information much better if they have a visual aide to remember. Some presenters use banner stands with photos of their products or lists of features/benefits, while others use demonstrations of the products. If you have a Power Point presentation, allow your audience to either take a copy of them or offer to email the slides to them. Putting an image in their minds of your product or services is a great way to keep it in their minds.

Have Different Presentations for Different Trade Shows

Every convention is going to be different; one show might be targeted more towards the public and consumers, while others may be for business professionals. Adjust your presentation to meet the needs of these different groups; the public would be more interested in an entertaining display, whereas business professionals may be more interested in just hearing the facts.

Get Feedback

This part may be a little tricky since not everyone will be willing to cooperate, but this is an important step in order to find out what they thought of your show. Hand out surveys after the presentation to help you discover what they liked about your presentation and what they didn’t. This will help you revamp your presentation for the next trade show you go to.

Display booths for trade shows are one of the best ways of using your marketing dollars because they allow you to meet you target audience face-to-face, which is something not offered by other marketing vehicles. Keep attendees entertained with a lively presentation, whether using one of your employees as a speaker or hiring a professional. Whoever you decide to use as the spokesperson of your company, make sure they are energetic, outgoing, and can convey the information in a timely manner.

4 Tricks to Effective Following-up at Trade Show Booths

2011-08-09T05:39:00.000-07:00

Most exhibitors know that having eye-catching trade show displays, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and promotional giveaways will increase the traffic and leads they receive. What most exhibitors fail to know is that following up with leads after the trade show is critical if they want to turn those leads into new customers. In fact, according to a study by CEIR, over 70 percent don’t take this final step, resulting in a loss of sales. To make sure that you are not part of that 70 percent, check out my tips below on how to effectively follow up with leads and get the results you were hoping for at your portable displays.

#1 Don’t Wait too Long

The longer you wait after the event to contact your leads, the less they will remember you or your trade show booth. Contact them while it is still fresh in their minds, which would be about a week after the event. Do not contact them sooner than that because it could come off as pushy. A week is the perfect amount of time to let all of the information they collected at show displays settle.

#2 Always Have Paper Lead Forms

Although electronic lead forms have become popular, having paper ones will also come in handy. This will allow you to capture any specific information that may not be on the electronic form, making it easier to qualify each lead.

#3 Use a Rating System

You and your staff should come up with a rating system in order to easily tell which leads are “hot” and which ones are not-so-hot. An easy one to remember would be A,B,C, A being the hot leads. Writing these big letters at the top of each lead form will allow you to quickly see which ones should be followed up first.

#4 Have a Plan After the Show

Meet with your staff to discuss who will follow up with these potential customers after the event. Some companies prefer to have the person who got the lead at the display system follow up, while others prefer to designate one person or department to follow up with all of them.

Keep in mind that your competitors will most likely be at the same event and if your leads visited their trade show booth exhibits as well, they may end up following up with these people. This will result in more sales for them, but not for you. Hopefully these tips from Smash Hit Displays will make it easier for you to get the results you want at the convention.

Smash Hit Displays: How They Can Help Make You a Trade Show Hit

2011-08-02T13:06:00.000-07:00

One of the most effective ways to promote your business is through trade shows, which is something Smash Hit Displays has a lot of experience in. As both a supplier of trade show booths and an exhibitor, Smash Hit Displays has a thorough knowledge of what it takes to become a hit at conventions and make the most of your display system.

Whether you are using trade show pop up displays, truss systems, or banner stands, the talented and knowledgeable team of this quality convention display supplier has a gift for helping you stand out from the competition. One thing you can expect from Smash Hit Displays is the fact that they will not push you into a display stand that is not right for you; they will take their time to help you find trade show displays that works for your budget and needs.

Exhibits can be extremely intimidating, especially if you have never been to one. The staff of Smash Hit Displays will stay with you from the beginning of your order to the day of the big trade show. This way, you’ll get one-on-one attention and assistance to help you through the convention booth process. They also have graphic design services to create professional, stunning graphics from scratch, making this one less thing you need to worry about.

Because this company thinks so highly of their customers, they are willing to work with you outside of normal business hours to ensure you get display booths for trade shows that will exceed your expectations. So, next time you are in the market for new show displays, talk to someone who knows what it takes to get results at trade shows and give Smash Hit Displays a call. We look forward to working with you!

Banner Stands: Reasons to use Them for Your Next Event

2011-07-12T22:19:00.001-07:00

If you are or plan on being a frequent exhibitor, purchasing trade show displays is an investment that will not only bring more awareness to your company and products/services, but, with the right design, will also attract potential new clients to your display booth. For those of you who are just starting out as an exhibitor at trade shows, you may be a little hesitant to invest a large amount of money and time into a trade show booth. If this sounds like you, banner stands may be the perfect solution. There are several benefits to using these portable displays, but here are a few.

Budget-Friendly

Banner displays are extremely affordable, costing between $100 and $800, which is much less than traditional trade show exhibits that cost thousands of dollars. The reason for the drastic price difference is partly because of how lightweight trade show banner stands are. Also, one banner stand can fit into a single shipping case, reducing costs of transporting these trade show booths.

Can be used on and off the Trade Show Floor

The nice thing about banner signs is the fact that they are extremely versatile. Since they take up very little space and can be as tall as 10 feet high, they make the perfect advertising sign in stores, offices, or sidewalks. Since the graphic panels can easily be interchanged, it is easy to change the look from the sales floor to the trade show floor in a matter of minutes.

Compliments Larger Show Displays

Banner stands can either be used alone or paired up with larger convention displays. For example, if you are using pop-up displays, these portable trade show displays can be used to add extra signage for a more eye-catching display. Banner stand walls can also be created using multiple retractable banner stands to create a large booth display for a smaller price.

A Variety to Choose From

Throughout the years, trade show exhibit manufacturers have been getting more creative in the design of their banner display systems. Instead of the traditional stand display, there are also hanging banners, scrolling banners, and fabric tension banner stands to choose from. Hanging banners range in size from 8 feet to 12 feet and come in a variety of shapes, including sphere, rectangular, triangle, tapered, etc. Scrolling banners can be attached to the wall and allow you to communicate more information or photos due to the scrolling mechanism. Fabric tension banners use a quality fabric material that simply stretches across the unique frame for a flawless look. There are constantly more styles surfacing.

Banner displays continue to be a popular trade show display for these reasons. Hopefully these tips will help you decide if this is the right display booth for you.

Benefits of Truss Systems

2011-06-07T21:39:00.001-07:00

The most frequently visited trade show displays are the ones that have a unique, yet inviting design that sets them apart from the others. Truss systems have increased in popularity because of the eye-catching look, but that is not the only reason exhibitors are turning to these portable displays. If you are still on the fence as to what display system would work best for you, here are 3 reasons to consider truss displays for your next event.

Effortless to Set up

These convention booths can appear to be intimidating because of its complex layout, but they are really no more difficult to put together than the pop up displays. The truss pieces are assembled with the twist-lock mechanism, requiring no tools. Most truss systems take no more than an hour to completely set up.

Built to be Tough and Long Lasting

These are one of the most durable trade show exhibits on the market because of the heavy-duty aluminum and tear-resistant graphic panels. However, lifetime warranties are included on the frames if there is a manufacturer defect.

Can be Reconfigured

These convention exhibits can be reconfigured in a variety of ways by adding or removing truss pieces for a custom look. However, there are an assortment of pre-designed truss system displays that come in different sizes and layouts.

Truss systems will help get your message to your audience loud and clear with their high-quality and vibrant graphic panels. You are sure to be a hit with this trade show display option.

Five Items to Have With You at Trade Show Exhibits

2011-05-31T09:30:00.000-07:00

Other than having your trade show booth, staff, and business cards, there are a few other things that you shouldn’t set foot on the convention floor without. Whether you are new to exhibits or have been doing it for years, these items may come in handy as you spend hours talking to people and standing at your portable displays.

Mints

With the variety of people you will get the chance to meet at the event, having fresh breath is key. Not only will it make you more pleasant to talk to, but attendees will remember the experience they had at your trade show display long after the event is over (both the good ones and the not-so-good ones). Keep mints in your pocket and avoid chewing gum at all costs because it can be unprofessional to see someone chomping on it.

Comfortable Shoes

Unfortunately, most venues have hard concrete floors. To save your feet as you are standing all day, bring two pairs of shoes: a pair of professional dress shoes and a pair of comfortable shoes. About half-way through the exhibit, change your shoes. And for the ladies, leave your high-heels at home! They may look nice, but you will regret the decision to wear them after the show. Another idea that will keep both you and your visitors happy is trade show flooring since it is padded and will add comfort to your display system. Not to mention how attractive this trade show accessory is.

A List of Trade Show Exhibit Staff’s Contact Info

Especially if you are traveling to the event, knowing how to get a hold of your co-workers or employees will come in handy. Keep a list on hand with their cell phone numbers and full names just in case you need to contact them.

Leave the Brochures at Home

You may have spent weeks designing the perfect brochure just to have it thrown in the trash. To avoid spending a bundle on something that attendees have no intention of using, use QR codes. These codes have become one of the latest trends in trade show displays. They are clearly visible on the booth and can be scanned with camera phones to take attendees directly to your website or a video you have prepared. Your audience will remember these much more than anything you have printed on paper.

A Repair Kit

If your trade show booths have been used for years, they may get damaged at some point. Bring a repair kit just in case you need to make any quick fixes. In this kit you should have double-sided tape, felt pads, markers, and stain remover just to name a few.

These are just a few of the items that may make life a little easier for you at the convention.

Benefits of Pop up Display Stands

2011-05-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

On the day of the big show you will probably have a long list of things that need to be done or taken care of in preparations for the big crowd that will be walking through those convention doors. With so much that still needs to be done, the last thing you will want to worry about is spending hours setting up your trade show booths. Pop up trade show displays are on the rise for a variety of reasons, but the number one reason is because of their easy assembly. Here are some of the other reasons people are turning to pop up booths.

Easy Assembly

As I mentioned, these trade show displays are on of the easiest to assemble. The durable aluminum frame simply pops open in an accordion-like fashion and locks into place in a matter of minutes. The graphic panels are just as simple to attach with the magnetic channel bars that will hold the panels firmly in place until you are ready to take them down.

Portable

Another reason for the explosion of pop up displays in the past few years is because they are one of the most portable displays to transport. The entire booth is lightweight and packs quickly into a shipping case, making these trade show exhibits easy and inexpensive to ship. Even the 20 foot trade show displays are extremely lightweight and can be broken down into 2 separate 10 foot displays, simply fitting into 2 shipping cases.

Variety of Configurations

These trade show booths come in a variety of sizes and configurations to make you stand out from the competing display systems. Some of the different shapes available are curved, straight, serpentine, gull-wing, and horseshoe.

Available to Rent

If you still aren’t sure if pop up displays are right for you, exhibit rentals are also available. It’s a great way to take it for a test drive before making the final commitment.

Although there is hundreds of trade show exhibits on the market, pop up display stands continue to rise above them because of the previous reasons. If these display booths aren’t right for you, Smash Hit Displays carries an array of quality trade show displays that may suit your needs better.

Why Exhibitors are Turning to Custom Trade Show Displays

2011-05-17T11:28:00.000-07:00

With an increase in trade show attendance and exhibitors this year, the number of competitors promoting their products and services has also increased. To stand out and rise above these competing businesses, it is important that your trade show displays are unique and will be remembered long after the event. Many exhibitors are now turning to custom displays because of its personalized design. Here are a few other reasons these trade show booths are a must-have for your next trade show.

Don’t Cost as Much as you Think

The word “custom” often times can be translated into “expensive”. In some cases that is true, but not when you are talking about trade show exhibits. Most of the trade show display components are pre-built, cutting down on time and cost in comparison to display systems that are customized from the ground up. However, minor changes can be made to add your own personal touch.

Unique Configurations

Unlike the traditional box-shaped trade show exhibits, these display systems have a very distinct appearance. Some have curved canopies and wings, while others have a 3D feel for a look that stands out.

Can be Rented

If you are still a little hesitant as to whether or not custom trade show displays are right for you, exhibit rentals are available. They allow you to have just as much of an impact at conventions without spending a lot. This is an excellent option if you are planning on only going to a couple conventions or if you would like to try it out before making the purchase, but can be expensive if you are planning on going to multiple events.

Designed Based on Your Budget

No need to worry about going over your budget because these portable displays can be designed around the amount you want to spend instead of the other way around.

These are just a few of the reasons for an increase in custom displays this year. They will make you stand out from the typical convention booths while staying within your allotted budget, comes in a variety of unique configurations and sizes, and can be rented to eliminate a commitment to these display booths.

3 Reasons to Use Video at Trade Shows

2011-05-10T19:58:00.000-07:00

Social media has not only made its way into the marketing campaigns of businesses of every size, but it has also made its way into trade show booths. Using social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter have become popular applications on the show floor to keep fans and followers updated on the activities and giveaways taking place at the trade show displays. However, using videos to promote trade show exhibits is quickly becoming a favorite among exhibitors and attendees alike and should be incorporated into your trade show marketing campaign. So what is it about this video site that makes it so critical to the success of the exhibitor? Glad you asked!

Seeing is Believing

You can tell people until you are blue in the face about how wonderful your display system is, but it’s hard to believe until they can actually see it in action. Let your audience see what makes your trade show exhibit stand out above the rest. Do you have magicians? Did you hire well-known speakers to give a presentation at your convention booth? Do you have fabulous giveaways? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you better get a sneak peak on video. Once they can see it for themselves, they will have an incentive to get in their cars and hurry to the event.

Reach a Larger Targeted Audience

At any given moment, there are billions of people uploading videos on the web. With the ability to add keywords and tags to each video, you are able to attract the people you want to attract. If they are impressed with your video, there’s a good chance they’ll pass on the link to others they think may be interested.

Real Testimonials

Since I know your audience will be impressed with your trade show displays and booth staff, why not get their kind words on camera? Interview some of the happy attendees that stopped by and let them share how courteous your staff was, how impressive your portable displays were, how nice your products are, and anything else that they liked about your trade show booth.

These are just 3 of the reasons you should be using video in your trade show marketing campaign and that list continues to grow! As you are preparing for your upcoming event, remember:

Bring a camera that can connect directly to your laptop on the convention floor or a phone that can take videos and upload them directly to the Internet. This way, you can share your videos directly from the show floor.
Keep them fairly short in order to keep your audience interested and to cut straight to the point.
Have fun with it! No one is going to watch a dry, boring video. The people either taking the video or who are doing the talking should be energetic and enthusiastic about your products and company.

With this constantly growing website, well-designed trade show displays, and approachable staff, you are sure to be a hit at the show!

How to Travel to Trade Shows and Stay Organized

2011-05-03T10:31:00.000-07:00

Since we seem to be out of the woods of the recession, more companies are deciding to take their trade show displays abroad. Traveling to events is a great way to expand awareness of your products or services and meet a bigger variety of people that may potentially become clients or new vendors. If you think you are ready to pack your bags and head to a new destination trade show, here are a few things you need to know before getting on that plane.

Budget

It may seem obvious, but many exhibitors don’t seem to know what their budget is. It is important that you have a detailed list that clearly says how much you want to spend on:

food
hotels
trade show fees
accommodation
miscellaneous costs

By knowing this, you won’t be surprised by any additional costs that may come your way.

Research the Convention

Trade shows can be very profitable and beneficial as long as you are going to the right ones. You should be able to contact the trade show organization to obtain a list of last year’s attendees and exhibitors to find out if your target market and competitors will be present. For more tips on finding the right trade show, please read this article.

Use Portable Trade Show Displays

Take into consideration the weight and size of your trade show booths prior to the event to decide if they would be easy and affordable to transport. Lightweight portable displays will cut down your shipping and baggage charges. Also, make sure the trade show booth can quickly and easily be packed up into its shipping cases. One excellent convention booth choice would be pop up displays because they are lightweight, can pack up in a matter of minutes, and fit securely into the shipping case.

Be Organized

The day of the big show can be a little hectic as you are making sure your staff are ready to go, are hauling your stacks of literature or promotional items, and are setting up your trade show exhibits. This can be stressful at local events, so imagine how frantic you would feel at destination conventions. Organization is important to avoid becoming a mess the day of the convention. Have a list of everything you will need with you:

brochures
business cards
specific products
paperwork
lead forms
contact information of all of your booth staff

Traveling to trade shows is a great way to get more recognition for your products or services and to reach out to a larger target audience. These tips should help make things a little easier as you travel to your next event.

Tips on How to Boost Your Networking Skills at Trade Shows

2011-04-26T22:07:00.000-07:00

Trade shows are not only good for increasing sales and meeting prospective leads, but are also excellent for networking with other business professionals. Building networking relationships with other professionals can only help your company since these people will be able to refer clients to you as long as you are willing to reciprocate the favor. In order to meet these people, you will need to venture outside of your trade show displays in search of these networking opportunities. These 3 tips should make it easier for you to make connections at your next event.

Browse the Convention Aisles

Browse the aisles and keep an eye out for people who are at their trade show booths and appear to have some time to talk. Strike up a conversation with these people without turning the discussion into an advertisement for your business. Ask them who they are, what their title is at their company, and interesting facts about them (do they have kids, what they do on their free time). Do not talk to these people like you would a customer, but more like a friend.

Make Your Objective Known

One of my biggest pet peeves at conventions is when an attendee leads me to believe they are interested in doing business with them. Be frank with these exhibitors and let them know you would like to partner with them in order to help each other expand your businesses.

Invite Them for a Bite to Eat

Get to know other exhibitors or attendees that you have had the chance to speak with outside of the trade show by taking them out to lunch or to grab some coffee. You don’t need to constantly be talking about work; turn the conversations to their likes and dislikes in order to get to know them better. Treat them as you would a friend in order to build a friendship with these other exhibitors.

Bring Plenty of Business Cards

You never know when you will need to hand out business cards, so it is important to carry a stack of them with you in order to whip them out at a moment’s notice. Your new friends will need to know the best way to contact you and having your own business cards will make it more professional to relay this information to them.

Hopefully these tips will make it easier for you to bring in more clients through networking instead of directly getting sales at your trade show exhibits.

Why Trade Shows Are Good For Your Business

2011-04-19T21:50:00.000-07:00

Trade shows continue to be one of the top marketing tools available. In fact, so far this year trade show attendance has been soaring compared to where it was a year ago. So, what is it that keeps exhibitors and attendees coming back? Here are some of the reasons people are using trade show displays to promote their business.

1.) Your Target Demographic is Under One Roof

If you are at the right trade shows, you’ll get the chance to meet hundreds or thousands of people who either work in the same industry or are interested related products. Conventions allow you to reach out and physically talk to these people that you wouldn’t be able to do by printing flyers and taking out ads in newspapers.

2.) Gets People Talking

Whether you are a small or large business, people will talk about your trade show booths long after the event if it was well-designed and unlike any other at the event. Even if the attendees are not ready to buy your products on the spot, they will keep you in mind when they are ready to do business if they have a positive experience. Conventions are effective at getting your business the exposure it needs to succeed.

3.) Can Generate New Ideas

While you are at the event, take a moment to walk the aisles and scope the competitor’s portable displays. If you see a crowd of attendees surrounding a specific trade show exhibit, find out why. What is it that people are responding so positive to? After that trade show, you should get some ideas on what you could do differently at the next convention to get more booth traffic and sales. You will also get the chance to see what new products are out there.

4.) Discover New Vendors

Meet new vendors that you could possibly partner with and expand your business. These professionals may also be able to refer business your way.

Trade shows can be extremely beneficial to your business, but keep in mind that you can’t be successful just by showing up. It takes months of planning to be a hit at the event. These ideas should make it easier for you to make the decision to participate at exhibits.

What Attendees May be Thinking at Your Trade Show Displays

2011-04-05T21:43:00.000-07:00

As you prepare your trade show displays for the upcoming event, you probably spent weeks or months designing your convention booth, creating the perfect brochure, and promoting your display system. After all of that time and energy spent to make you a success at the convention, you still aren’t getting the traffic you want. Attendees may not be approaching your trade show booths because of the body language they are reading from the staff. Here are some of the thoughts that may be going through their heads as they are reading the nonverbal cues your staff is unknowingly relaying.

The Convention Booth Staff Seem Busy

The attendee’s attention span is very short, so it is important they are approached and acknowledged within the first minute they enter your display booth. However, they may decide not to visit your booth exhibit if they see the following:

The employee is texting or on the phone.
They are eating or drinking in the display system.
Employees are talking amongst each other.

If the previous points are witnessed, the attendees may think you and your staff are on a break, don’t want to be bothered, or have more important things to do than talk to them. These potential new clients need to feel like they are your priority and if you are busy doing other things, they are going to move on to a booth that has staff that will give them their full attention.

You Could Use a Mint

As nice and professional the staffers may seem your booth visitors may be fleeing for the exit if they are speaking to an employee with bad breath. When they think back on their experience at your trade show exhibit, this bad memory will probably come to mind. It can be difficult to keep your breath fresh as you spend hours standing on the convention floor and talking to dozens of people. Keep mints or breath spray in your pocket to avoid faux pas like this. Stay away from gum because the attendees may be turned off when they see you chomping on it.

I Want the Free Stuff

Not only will giveaway items draw in a crowd, but they are also great ways of advertising your business if the attendees use them in public. Unfortunately, every event will have that group of people who are more interested in collecting free stuff instead of actually doing business with you. To avoid spending a hefty amount of money on promotional products, have two separate products to hand out: a less expensive item that you give to everyone walking by your display system (pens, rulers, etc.) and a more expensive product you give out to qualified leads to remember you by. Whatever you decide to give away, your logo and company’s contact info should be located somewhere on the product.

I Will Be Expecting Their Call

In some cases, the attendees will contact you after the event, but this typically doesn’t happen. Since they visited several different trade show exhibits, some of which may be your competitors, they won’t necessarily remember talking to you. That’s why following up with interested booth visitors is important; it will make you stand out above your competitors and will put your company in the front of their mind when ready to buy. Handwritten thank-you cards or phone calls are a great way to do this.

With only about 3 seconds to grab the attendee’s attention as they walk on by your display booth, having well-designed trade show displays is extremely important to make you stand out and draw in a crowd. Once your display gets their attention, it is up to your staff to turn that attention into an interest in your products or services. These tips will hopefully help you become a hit at your next event.

Technology to Make Trade Show Exhibiting Easier

2011-03-29T10:36:00.000-07:00

Technology has definitely transformed the way we communicate with one another in both our personal and professional lives. More emails are being sent than handwritten letters and more meetings are being held online than in-person. As convenient as technology has become for us, it will never replace the effectiveness of face-to-face meetings, such as conventions and fairs. In fact, trade show attendance actually seems to be much higher than it was in 2010.

Although the virtual world will never replace traditional exhibits, they can be used together to increase the traffic to your trade show displays. Here are just a few of the hottest trends in technology that will make the exhibitors’ life much easier.

iPads

When iPads were first introduced, people were lining up around the block to get their hands on one. They are lightweight and take up very little room, which is a great alternative to the bulky, heavy laptops. As you are standing at your display systems, it isn’t always easy to find a place to set your laptop while you type. The iPads have a touch screen, which make it extremely quick and easy to take orders or fill out any other necessary forms at the touch of a button.

It is also much simpler to get your leads’ information into your database because lead forms can be kept directly on them that includes their contact info, role at their company, and a few qualifying questions. Once you have all of these details, it can be sent automatically to your marketing or sales team.

Mobile Apps

Smart phones have many of the same features as a computer, but can fit right into your pocket. Apps have been designed specifically for the trade show industry to make it a little easier to connect with other attendees and exhibitors, as well as manage your social networking sites, such as Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. There are plenty of mobile apps available that will help draw in a larger crowd to your convention booth, but here are 3 that I stumbled upon.

Pathable - Attendees, exhibitors, and sponsors are connected through this app. Attendees will be able to see what exhibitors will be at the show and a discussion forum is also available for everyone to participate in. This is an excellent application to help meet other people who will be at the event before even setting foot on the trade show floor.
ChirpE by a2z Mobile - Three different applications are available to enhance your convention experience: ChirpE Mobile, ChirpE Facebook, and ChirpEvite. ChirpE Mobile will give you the opportunity to see the convention floor plan, view conference sessions, and find out what products and exhibitors will be present on the big day. Keep your followers and fans updated with the activities surrounding your trade show exhibit by using ChirpE Facebook to post to your Facebook page. ChirpEvite lets you send invitations to colleagues or customers who don’t have memberships on social media websites.
Square – If you plan on taking credit card payments at the event, why not do it on your iPhone? Credit card payments can be accepted through this application and geo-tagged receipts are sent to the customers.

Kiosks or Monitors

An interactive display booth will draw in a larger crowd than one that has nothing going on. Add kiosks or monitors to your trade show displays to display presentations or videos of your company and products/services. Not only will this get people interested in your convention exhibit, but it will be much easier for the attendee’s to figure out if they would want to do business with you or if they aren’t interested in what your company has to offer.

Technology continues to evolve in order to make our lives a little easier, both personal and in the business world. As you are preparing your trade show displays, keep in mind that technology like the ones I mentioned will help bring in more people. Good luck at your next exhibit!

Sources: http://www.seattle20.com/blog/Startup-Profile-Pathable.aspx

http://www.a2zshow.com/show6/public/Content294.aspx

https://squareup.com/

Are Trade Show Exhibit Rentals Right for You?

2011-03-22T21:15:00.000-07:00

If you have decided to take part in trade shows then congratulations; this is the first step in meeting and gaining new customers outside of your place of business. However, if you are new to exhibiting, you may be deciphering whether or not buying brand-new trade show displays. There are benefits to both buying and renting trade show booths.

Benefits of Renting Convention Booths

You can test drive a trade show booth before buying one to make sure it is right for you.
Stylish, high-end display systems are available to rent that may have otherwise been more expensive than your budget allowed to purchase.
Perfect if you only want to participate in a couple events.

Reasons to Buy

If you are a frequent exhibitor, purchasing your own convention booth is more cost-effective than renting one.
Since they are yours, you can personalize them anyway you would like.
Several different trade show graphics can be purchased, allowing you to create a different look from one convention to the next.
Even on a budget, there are plenty of trade show booths to choose from that cost as low as $200.

Whether you decide to rent or buy display systems, just the fact that you are planning to partake in the festivities will definitely bring more awareness to your business and reach a much larger audience.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before the Trade Show

2011-03-15T21:28:00.000-07:00

Well-designed trade show displays is the first thing you need to get the attention you want at the event. However, it takes more than a stunning display system to hold their attention. Here are just a few of the questions you need to ask yourself as you are preparing your convention booth for the big day!

Do you have a pre-show marketing plan in place?

Over 80 percent of attendees know what trade show booths they are going to visit before even getting to the event. Make your way on their list of must-see convention exhibits by advertising your display system at least 2 weeks before the convention. Social media is a great way to spread the word, since it is free and can reach millions of people. Also, consider sending out invitations or direct mail pieces with your booth number and the time and location of the trade show. People are more likely to attend an event if they will get something out of it, so offer an incentive, such as a free gift or discount when they stop by your trade show display.

Does my trade show exhibit have an open, inviting design?

The attendees may feel anxious to exit your convention display if your space is cluttered and difficult to browse. Even a small booth space can appear larger with the right layout: don’t have tables or other items blocking the entrance of your display booth, keep all literature organized in literature racks instead of scattered on tables or counters, and keep your trade show graphics simple while still letting booth visitors know what your company is all about. With a space that appears to be much larger and more inviting, more people will be inclined to stop by and visit.

Is your booth staff thoroughly trained?

It is inevitable that attendees are going to have questions about your products or services. Your staff will be the face of your company at the convention, so if they aren’t able to answer questions about what your business offers, these would-be customers may decide to do business with your competitors who know their stuff. Your staff should know everything there is about your products or services, while still having an optimistic attitude and a smile on their face.

No other marketing tool will give you the opportunity to meet your target market face-to-face like trade shows. It is an investment that will expand your business and grow your networking community.

Social Media Tips to Increase Convention Booth Visitors

2011-03-08T20:39:00.000-08:00

Everywhere you look, social media is being used and is now one of the best ways of promoting your trade show displays. With thousands of tweeters and Facebook users, it allows you to reach a larger audience for little to no money. These tips will help you successfully use social media and increase attendees who visit your display system.

Use Hash Tags!

If you are using TweetDeck, you may be following conversations that contain certain hash tags. Using these keywords or the name of your event are excellent ways to reach people who have similar interests or plan on going to the same trade show.

Give an Incentive

Why should people stop by your trade show exhibits? It is this question you will need to provide an answer to before attendees will even consider stopping by your display system. Post the giveaway items, drawings, presentations, or demos on all of your social media websites to intrigue them to visit your trade show booth. Also, don’t be afraid to rush them a little bit; let your audience know the time of your presentation or demo, or inform them that only a certain amount of people will be receiving your giveaway item. You’ll be amazed at how many people will rush over to get their free gift!

Connect With Other Exhibitors

Help each other out by networking through social media. As I mentioned earlier, search for hash tags that include the name of the event in order to find other attendees and exhibitors. Start chatting with them prior to the convention so that you can help each other out on the venue floor.

Bring a Video Camera

YouTube is quickly climbing up the popularity chart as one of the top social media sites. Bring a video camera with you and record a video of your trade show booths and interview your booth staff. People will be more inclined to come by your display booth if they can see what’s going on before reaching the event. Post the video right away, but don’t forget to use keywords to make it easy to find.

Use social media at least 2 weeks before the convention to give your audience enough time to prepare for the event, and keep the tweets and Facebook posts going during and after the trade show as well. Since 80 percent of attendees already know what trade show booths they are going to visit before they reach the convention, it’s important to make their list of must-see convention booths by using this form of networking.

Become a Success at Conventions Without Spending a Bundle

2011-03-01T09:33:00.000-08:00

Attendees may not be able to recognize the difference between your display system and the variety of trade show displays that are also vying for their attention at the event; however there are ways of making your booth stand out without spending a bundle. These tips should help you make the most of your trade show experience and increase traffic to your convention booth.

Position Your Booth in a High-Traffic Area

If your convention exhibit is tucked away and not easy to see from the aisle, you probably won’t be getting the traffic you are hoping for. Place your display system in an area that attendees are most likely to walk by, such as near bathrooms, entrances, and food areas. They may not realize they want to stop by your trade show exhibit until they see it.

Add Lighting

Most convention venues have very poor lighting, making it difficult to separate one trade show booth from the next. Spotlights are very inexpensive, yet will illuminate your entire booth and increase the attention you receive. For a more eco-friendly lighting option, LED lights are available, which use less energy and will save you money.

Create a Demand for Your Products

Most people are drawn to products they know everyone else wants, so why not create the illusion of a need for what your company has to offer. Strategically place “sold out” signs on a product and have a couple empty spots on your shelves or tables. Once attendees realize how much these products are wanted, most of them will gladly jump on the bandwagon and want them as well.

Let Your Customers Know When and Where Your Trade Show Booth Will Be

About 2 weeks prior to the convention, give your customers and target audience a heads-up on the big show you will be at. This can be done a few different ways:

Send out direct mail pieces with discounts or free gifts they can get only at the event.
If you have your customers’ phone numbers, give them a call.
Use social media! You can reach a larger audience across a much larger area.

With these tips, you should be able to stand out at the trade show. Another trade show exhibit component that must be carefully planned out for a successful convention experience is the design of your trade show graphics. Good luck and get excited about all of the different people you will get to meet and hopefully do business with in the future!

How to Decide What Trade Show Attendees You Should Approach

2011-02-22T20:19:00.000-08:00

Conventions will give you the opportunity to meet a variety of people who could potentially turn into new customers or future partners. As excited as you may be to talk about your products, the attendees may not be as overly enthused. Don’t take it personal; what your company offers may not be needed by everyone who walks by your trade show exhibits. Attendees don’t necessarily need to tell you not to bother them or that they are interested, it’s all in their body language.

Watch for these signs before you approach them:

Not Making Eye Contact with You

I don’t know how many times I will be walking in the mall when, out of nowhere, an eager employee will try to force me to fill out a survey or buy a bottle of overpriced lotion. No matter how intensely I stare at the floor, they don’t seem to get the hint. If you see attendees doing just this, stop and go back to your convention booth.

Slowly Browsing Your Trade Show Display

If these attendees are slowly walking past your display system or come to a complete stop while they are taking a look at the products or literature you put on display, they may be waiting for you to approach them. If this is the case, you need to move fast because the attention span of attendees is very short. Start talking to them within a minute in order to hold their interest and hopefully get them to move from the aisle of your trade show displays to the entrance.

The Eager Buyer

In some cases, the attendees know just what they want without you having to persuade them. These interested buyers usually do their research before the event to find out who will be exhibiting and where their trade show exhibits will be located. They end up making a beeline for the display booths they know they want to visit, so hopefully you are on their list.

With only 3 seconds to get their attention, it is important they know exactly what you do from the minute they look at your booth. Your trade show graphics will help you accomplish this goal, if you follow these simple rules: short and sweet text, one or two large photos of your products and the company's contact info (including a website if you have one). So to answer the question of whether or not you should stop every convention visitor, the answer is no. You will only be wasting your time and energy by talking to everyone, while the interested buyers will end up walking away.

Budget-Friendly Ways to Boost the Look of Convention Booths

2011-02-15T09:53:00.000-08:00

Trade shows are one of the most effective ways of promoting your business, since they allow you to meet hundreds of people under one roof, which could turn into new customers. You only have about 3 to 5 seconds to grab the attendee’s attention before they move on to the next display system, so having eye-catching trade show displays are a must. If you are concerned about the cost associated with having an effective convention booth, don’t be. There are plenty of things you can do to enhance the look of your display system on a budget.

Add Trade Show Accessories

Whether you are sporting tabletop pop up displays or opted for a 20x20 truss system, the right trade show accessories will spruce up your booth display.

Table cloth with your logo – This is an excellent way of creating a memorable look for a small price.
Literature stand – If you have stacks of brochures or other promotional literature to hand out, nothing will keep them more organized and professional-looking than storing them in a literature stand along side your trade show exhibits.
Shelves – Have a product you want to display? Make it (and your display) stand out by placing it on a shelf.
Counters – If you are planning on filling out paperwork, need a place to rest your laptop, or simply need more room to display a product, counters will do the trick.

Effective Trade Show Graphics

Graphics are typically the first thing attendees will notice about your convention exhibit. However, the most effective graphics are those that are not over-the-top. Trying to incorporate too much information could actually hurt your efforts of drawing people to your display system. Keep it simple while giving just enough information to let attendees know what your company is all about. For more trade show graphic help, check out my article, “Unforgettable Trade Show Displays Start With Amazing Graphics”.

Add a Banner Stand

One of the most versatile trade show booths on the market on banner stands, since they can be used on and off the convention floor. They take up very little space and will compliment any display system, including pop up displays, hybrid convention booths, and truss systems. As I mentioned above, your graphics should be extremely simple with minimal text and photos. If there is other information you would like your visitors to know, you can relay the message on banner stand displays. These exhibit booths also work well as signage to draw people to your booth from the aisle. Include your logo and company’s name to make it easy to spot.

Create an Open Layout

Attendees want to feel as if they can easily move around your booth, and the best way to do this is to arrange your trade show exhibit and accessories to create room to browse your display. If you are using tables or counters, make sure they’re not blocking the entrance; by doing this, you will create the illusion of having a larger booth space. Even a large display system can seem small if the layout is closed-off and difficult to walk around in.

Bold Colors Will Make You Stand Out

Use bold colors instead of neutral colors because they are much more eye-catching. Attendees are like cars on the freeway; they will continue walking by until a trade show display catches their eye. Bold colors, such as red, yellow, orange, and green will get more attention than neutral colors like brown, tan, and white.

There’s no doubt that conventions are effective ways of getting the word out about your business and increasing sales. It’s the perfect opportunity for both small and large businesses to compete for the attention of the people walking down the aisle. One study from CEIR showed that 91 percent of attendees go to trade shows to help them make purchasing decisions. Since a majority of them are ready to do business, it is up to you to give them a reason why they should choose you over the competition. The first thing they will notice is your trade show display, so an effective design is a must to get their attention. Once you draw them in, you and your staff will be able to give them a reason to do business with you!

How to Decide on the Right Trade Show Exhibit for You

2011-02-08T07:38:00.000-08:00

You have a very small window of opportunity to grab the attendee’s attention as they walk past your trade show exhibit, so having a convention booth that is unique and is well-designed is a must. Before you make the decision as to what display system you are going to use at the big event, there are some factors you need to take into consideration before purchasing one.

Budget

This is definitely the most important factor when deciding on your exhibit booth. Luckily there are plenty of trade show display options for businesses who are limited on funds and who have a less restrictive budget. Some popular and affordable options include banner stands, pop up displays, and Hop up Booths.

Space

How much booth space will you have to work with? This makes a huge difference in what display booth you will use. If you are limited on space, you may want to consider tabletop trade show displays. If you have ample room, a large, open trade show booth may be more suitable for you, such as 20x20 truss systems.

To Rent or To Buy

If you are new to exhibiting, you may be hesitating over making the big plunge and purchasing a brand-new convention booth. Exhibit rentals are also available, which allow you to have a high-end, stunning display system for a fraction of the cost. However, only rent a booth display if you’re planning to go to only one or two events. Any more than that and you may be spending more on renting an exhibit instead of purchasing your very own. If you still need help deciding if this is the right option for you, please read my article Renting Versus Purchasing Trade Show Booths.

These tips should narrow down the list of trade show booths that would work best for your situation. No need to stress over this decision because the important thing is you are planning on participating in exhibits. Just remember that if you aren’t at the event, your competitors will be getting all of your potential customers. If you need more assistance in finding the right trade show display for you, give Smash Hit Displays a call!

Five Ways to Qualify Convention Leads

2011-01-28T21:48:00.000-08:00

With effective trade show displays and knowledgeable booth staff, conventions are excellent ways of promoting your business and bringing in new customers. However, keeping track of leads can be a little tricky. Having a plan in motion is a must for you and your staff to know how you intend to turn these prospects into customers. Here are a five things you can do to make sure you are talking to the right people and keeping track of your leads.

Read the Attendee’s Body Language

You may have hundreds of people walking in and out of your trade show exhibit, so don’t waste your time talking to every single one of them. Read their nonverbal cues to find out if they would be interested in what you have to say.

Do they make eye contact?
Are they smiling at you?
Do they seem drawn to a certain piece of your display system or product?

If you answered yes to these questions, then it may be worth your while to talk to them. Ask open-ended questions, such as “What is it you like about this product?” Also, listening is much more important than talking. Let the attendees talk about themselves and explain in further detail what they are hoping your products or services can do for them. This will help narrow down what products you should be directing them to.

Have Lead Forms

Collecting business cards from these potential new customers are a great idea, but this is no way to keep track of them. Having professional lead forms include all of the information you would find on business cards, but looks much more professional and are more difficult to lose. These forms also have a series of questions the staffers must ask the attendees in order to qualify them as leads. Exhibitor Magazine mentioned an electronic form called Allied Telesyn’s, which inputs all of the attendee’s information into an electronic database.

Code Your Leads

On top of all of these professional, organized lead forms, all of your booth staff should have a big A, B, or C. The coding system is as follows:

A = hot lead

B = warm lead

C = cold lead

This will make it easier to simply glance at the form and find out which leads you should contact first.

Use Bowls or Boxes to Hold All Business Cards

Even with the forms, having their business cards will ensure you don’t leave out any crucial contact information. Keep a fish bowl or box at the entrance of your convention exhibit for all interested buyers to leave them in case you are busy speaking to another prospective client.

Follow up

One study showed that 70 percent of exhibitors fail to follow up, resulting in a loss of the sale. There are two effective ways of following up: phone calls and sending out thank-you cards. If you decide to make a call, be prepared to answer any additional questions they may have. If you send out thank-you cards, hand-written ones are more effective because they show that you took time out of your busy schedule to write them a note. Make sure to include your business card so they know how to contact you when they are ready to do business.

Conventions are one of the most cost-effective ways of marketing your business and meeting new and potential customers who would not have typically set foot in your office or store. Don’t expect all interested buyers to approach you and close the sale, especially since there’s a good chance your competitors will be at the same event vying for their business as well. By keeping track and following up with prospects, you will definitely stand out and come to mind when they are ready to buy.

Ways to Follow up After the Trade Show Exhibit

2011-01-10T11:47:00.000-08:00

After months of preparations and designing the perfect trade show displays, the day has finally come for you to show your stuff at the event. After two days of constantly standing on your feet, pasting a grin on your face, and enthusiastically trying to sell the pants off your products, the convention you had stressed yourself out about for weeks is over. It may seem like you can now go back to your regular work day and wait for your phone to ring off the hook, but don’t hold your breathe.

In most cases, the attendees will not make the first move; with tons of competing trade show exhibits, they’re probably going over the information that was given to them by the booth staffers they talked to. So, what can you do to stand out? Follow up! Statistics show that about 80 percent of exhibitors don’t follow up with leads after the trade show, which results in a loss of the sale. Here are a few things you can do to reach out to these potential customers and close the sale.

Give Them a Call

This one little gesture will show just how genuine you are by taking time out of your busy schedule to call them. If this is the follow-up method you decide to go with, it will give you the opportunity to thank them for their time at the event and ask if there are any further questions they have about your products or services. By answering any lingering questions these leads may have, you will be building their confidence in your products and company.

Thank-You Cards

Send out cards that are either handwritten or use a font that gives off the appearance of being handwritten. It looks more authentic than sending out cards that look as if you photo-copied them and mailed them out to everyone. Don’t forget to include your business card in it. How are they going to be able to contact you without it?

Emails…But Be Cautious

These days, everyone in both professional and personal settings are turning to technology and relying on their email. If your leads are recurring email-checkers like myself, there’s no doubt they will receive the message. However, if they are unaware that you were planning on sending an email, they may pass it off as spam. Before using this method, ask at the trade show if it would be alright for you to send an occasional email. This follow-up technique should be used sparingly because it can become annoying to constantly get emails from someone trying to sell something, and will result in getting blocked.

One rule of thumb is that although it is your trade show exhibit that will catch the attendee’s eye and draw them in, following up is what will close the sale. This is a great way to stand out from your competitors and will definitely be remembered when your leads are ready to buy.

Must-Have Trade Show Accessories That Will Impress Your Audience

2010-12-13T21:08:00.000-08:00

With only a mere 3 seconds to grab the attention of the attendees, it is critical to have trade show displays that stand out among the competition. Any display system can have a one-of-a-kind look with the right accessories. Here are just a few of the accessories that can be added for a more cutting-edge, attractive look to keep you ahead of the competition.

LCD Monitors

Technology is becoming a normal component of trade show displays, and adding a monitor to your exhibit is the perfect way of displaying a presentation or video. Monitor brackets can be applied to almost any convention booth to simply attach the sleek, plasma monitors for a classy, professional way to present the message you want to relay.

Trade Show Flooring

After hours spent standing on your feet, a padded trade show floor will be a welcomed change for both your staff and the attendees. There are a variety of affordable flooring options to choose from, depending on your style. They are easy to install and your logo can be imprinted into some of the carpeting options to make your display remembered long after the event. Some of the flooring choices to choose from include hardwood, interlocking comfort carpet, bamboo rolling floors, turf, raised flooring and dye sub mats.

Table Covers

If you are using a tabletop pop up display, adding a tablecloth is the perfect addition to create a more professional look. Logos can be imprinted and there are a variety of colors to choose from.

Lights

This small trade show accessory can make a big difference for your trade show exhibit. Most venues are dimly lit and it can be difficult to see some of the display systems. Using lights will illuminate the entire booth and help you stand out. They can be added to almost any trade show exhibit, including banner stands, pop up displays, and truss systems.

Outdoor Tents

The weather can be very difficult to predict, no matter what the news may say. Tents are ideal if you plan on having an outdoor event. They are built to withstand even the toughest weather conditions, including rain and snow. Graphics can be added for a more custom, eye-catching look.

Counters

For more room to fill out paperwork or display a product, counters are the perfect addition for any trade show booth. They stand alone and come in a variety of styles to fit your needs.

By adding trade show accessories to your exhibit, you will have a display that will stand out and have a more custom look to fit your own personal style. Another important element of any convention display is the graphics. For effective trade show graphics, check out our article.

Retractable Banner Displays are a Must for Exhibitors on a Budget

2010-11-17T09:37:00.000-08:00

Trade shows have proven to be an excellent way to increase your sales and business connections. With so many businesses trying to cut costs, you may feel that trade shows are the last thing you should be spending your money on. Retractable banner stands are increasing in popularity since they fit into almost any budget, are easy to assemble, and are lightweight.

While many trade show booths can cost thousands of dollars, the average retractable banner stand costs a measly $200-300. So why are these display systems so much more affordable? Here are some reasons that are drawing exhibitors to them.

Cost – As mentioned before, the cost of retractable banner displays is a fraction of what most trade show exhibits cost.

Space-Saving – Some trade show booth spaces may be small, making it difficult to maneuver around in. Retractable banner displays are the perfect solution, because they take up very little space width-wise, yet can be as tall as 10 feet high.

Versatile – This is one of the few display systems that can be used for other purposes other than just trade shows. Some businesses prefer to use them as advertising displays in their store or office. The graphics can easily be interchanged, creating a new look from the trade show to your place of business.

Can Appear Larger – If you want an 8, 10, or 20 foot display system but have a tight budget, retractable banner stands can be used to create a banner stand wall. Several banner displays are placed side by side to appear as if they are a larger trade show exhibit. Use as many or as few banner stands as you would like.

These are just a few of the reasons exhibitors are being drawn to these displays. If you have a tight budget, but still want an attractive display, there are a ton of trade show exhibits that are budget-friendly while still having a stunning design.

Cut Down on Trade Show Spending With These Budget-Friendly Convention Booths

2010-10-24T20:11:00.000-07:00

We may be out of the woods from the recession, but the fight to gain back some of our profits is still ongoing for some businesses. This may ultimately cause some companies to cut costs, including the marketing department. I hope your budget restrictions aren’t stopping you from trade show exhibiting, because there are plenty of cost-efficient trade show booths out there that have an eye-pleasing design without the high cost. That being said, banner stands are becoming an in-demand display system.

To cut down on expenses, you may have decided to use a small booth space. The nice thing about banner stand displays is the fact that they take up very little space. Most of these display systems are between 2 and 4 feet wide, yet can be as tall as 10 feet. You’d still get the chance to promote your business effectively without taking up a lot of room. However, if you do have the room available and need more graphic space, banner stand walls can also be created. Banner stand walls consist of multiple retractable banner stands being placed side-by-side, giving off the appearance of an 8, 10, or even 20 foot trade show display. Not only will they look as if they are a much larger display, but it costs much less than what you would pay for an 8, 10, or 20 foot booth.

Banner stand displays also take an average of 5 minutes to assemble. With the growing list of tasks you need to get done the day of the big show, it doesn’t make sense to add “stressful display assembly” to it. The retractable banner stands, for example, store the graphic cartridges directly in the base of the frame, so all you have to do is pull the banner out and attach it to the pole. Very simple to do, yet still has an attractive look.

You may be thinking “I only have a couple shows to go to; it doesn’t make sense to purchase an entire display.” The nice thing about these trade show exhibits is the fact that they can be used year-round. Many businesses use them for in-store advertising tools or sidewalk signs. The graphics can easily be interchanged, making it easy to promote your business at the show and advertise specific products in your place of business.

There are a variety of banner stands to choose from to set you apart from the competitors, including hanging banners and Allure fabric tension banner stands. All of them have an appealing look with a small price tag. The other critical component of a successful trade show display is the graphics. Effective trade show graphics can either make or break your display system. Banner stands just go to show you that you don’t have to take out a loan to make an impact at your next event. And trust me, with the right look, the right trade show booth staff, and a plan, you and your trade show display will be unforgettable long after the show is over!

The Perks of Purchasing a Pop up Booth

2010-09-27T11:59:00.000-07:00

Trade shows continue to be one of the best and most cost-effective ways to promote your business. You will get the chance to meet and greet a variety of potential clients and partners. Have you heard the saying, "If business won't come to you, go to the business"? I don't think the quote goes exactly like that, but it uses the same concept. Through exhibiting, you are reeling in customers who typically would never have been to your place of business. Additionally you have all these potentially new customers in one location!

After making the decision to participate at a trade show, have you decided on a booth? The pop up display stands have been popular for years because of their sleek design and easy assembly. There are numerous pop up trade show booths to choose from, including our high-quality Premium Pop up Trade Show Displays.

Pop up displays are no longer limited to the curved shape. Many configurations are available, including straight, curved, horseshoe, serpentine, and gull-wing. Also, there's no need to settle on one size because, whether you want a tabletop pop up display, a 20 foot trade show booth, or something in between, the pop up booths are obtainable in all of those sizes. Some exhibitors have a very small booth space, which make these convention displays a perfect fit since they can comfortably fit into almost any booth space.

For those of you who are concerned about the wastefulness of trade shows, the industry as a whole is taking steps to become more eco-friendly, which starts with the trade show exhibits. The Eco System Displays is a special line of booths that are made almost entirely of recyclable/reusable materials to cut down on waste.

Pop up booths only take between 5 and 20 minutes to set up, which will save you time and money on installing and dismantling. The frame simply pops open and locks into place, making it simple for even the newest exhibitor to assemble by themselves. Magnetic channel bars are also used to keep the graphic panels firmly in place until you are ready to take them down.

Although the trade show pop up displays remain one of the most popular displays on the market, there's a variety of shapes and sizes to choose from to make you stand out from the other display systems at the event. Effective trade show graphics are also important to create a booth that will WOW your audience. As a reminder, the graphics can always be replaced year after year to stay up to date with your newest product offerings.

A Convention Display Option That Will Make Your Visitors (and Booth Staff) Happy

2010-09-08T18:20:00.000-07:00

The trade show pop up booth is one of the most popular trade show booths on the market today. Not only do they have a quality, sleek design, but they are also user-friendly. These convention exhibits take a matter of minutes to assemble since, as the name implies, the frame simply "pops" open and locks into place. With the use of magnetic channel bars, the graphic panels are effortlessly attached to the frame.

The day of the big event can be extremely stressful and I'm sure you have a million things running through your mind. Some trade show exhibits need to be set up the day before the show since they do take so long to assemble. That's what I love about the pop up booths. All you need is 5 to 20 minutes to set up. Not only will these trade show exhibits take minutes to assemble but they also have a sleek, stunning design. Another reason people are so intrigued by these display systems is definitely the price. They are inexpensive, while also being durable and reliable.

There's a wide variety of trade show pop up booths available. High grade aluminum is used with the Premium Coyote Pop up Displays, as well as being designed to withstand the daily wear and tear typically found at trade shows. The Ellipse Pop up Booths are lightweight and are easy to transport with the heavy-duty shipping cases. The Hop up Fabric Tension Displays are very unique in comparison to the other pop up booths because high quality power stretch fabric material is used to create vibrant, flawless trade show graphics. Successful trade show graphics will also bring in an abundance of visitors at your next show. With a quality, beautiful pop up display and well-designed graphics, you are sure to be unstoppable at your next event.

Attracting Visitors at Trade Shows Goes Beyond Sight

2010-09-03T11:22:00.000-07:00

You spent the past year designing your trade show display, have organized your booth space by using literature stands and shelves, and have prepped your staff to make sure they know their stuff. The problem doesn't seem to be getting attention from people passing by, but the problem does seem to be attracting people to walk towards your convention display. That is where your sense of smell comes in.

Scent marketing is becoming more and more popular at events. It allows the attendees to smell your trade show booth before they even see it. There are several scents that will be crowd-pleasers at your next event.

Baked Goods - No smell is more comforting than the smell of home-baked cookies. Attendees are sure to get hungry after hours of visiting booth after booth, so the scent of baked cookies or popcorn will definitely cause these famished attendees to beeline it towards your display.

Fresh-cut Grass or Flowers - The smell of roses are typically associated with positive memories, whether its anniversaries, birthdays, or weddings. Fresh-cut grass and flowers will definitely be a breath of fresh air in comparison to the standard smells at trade shows and events.

Calming Scents - If your business is somehow related to aromatherapy, then using scents such as lavender and vanilla may be the way to go.

Coffee and Tea - Even the non-coffee drinkers I know love the smell of coffee. It's a scent that will definitely get noticed from across the trade show floor.

Before you decide what scent you would like associated with your exhibit booth, you need to think about your target market. Exhibitor Magazine did a survey that broke down the different demographics and what scents appeal to them and this is what they found:

Age 18-35: Heated plastic, bubble gum, baby powder, Axe-like colognes and body sprays, coffees, teas, and mojitos
Age 36-50: Play-Doh, Pez, Crayola crayons, Keds, Sweet Tarts, mimeograph sheets, chlorine, bubble gum, baby powder, suntan lotion, and vanilla.
Age 51 and over: Grass, trees, hay, horses, wood, sand, the ocean, and snow
Male: New car, tires, fresh-cut grass, and spicy and woody scents
Female: Lavender, vanilla, floral, and sweet and musky fragrances

So before you start thinking about all the scents that you love, think about what will attract your target market to your exhibit display.

New Trade Show Displays for 2010

2010-08-17T21:50:00.000-07:00

There are many reasons people participate in trade shows. They want to bring awareness to their brand, meet potential clients who they never would have met without the event, promote new products, and the list can go on and on. However, without the right trade show booths, they won't be able to effectively relay their message. This year, the trade show display industry has exploded with brand new, cutting-edge displays to choose from. Smash Hit Displays is constantly adding new products to their web site, including the Formulate Fabric Tension Displays and Custom Trade Show Displays.

Formulate Fabric Tension Display Stands - A variety of sizes are available to choose from, including tabletop and floor standing models. Just like the traditional pop up displays, they are quick and simple to assemble, saving time and money on installing and dismantling the booth. Some of these exhibits include standoff shelves or literature racks, making it easy to add a monitor with a keyboard or can hold literature to keep your booth organized. These dazzling display systems come in several configurations, including straight, curved, and serpentine shapes.

Custom Trade Show Exhibits - These booths are ideal if you have a specific look but can't find the display that best fits your expectations. For an even more customized look, add counters, flooring, or hanging displays to enhance the appearance of these booths.

These are just two of the stunning trade show booths that have been added to Smash Hit Displays' website. We are constantly updating our website with products that we feel our customers will enjoy. All displays on our site have been tested to ensure they are quality, reliable trade show exhibits. Need help designing your trade show graphics? Let our design team create effective, professional graphics for you! Give us a call today.

Custom Trade Show Displays are a Must for Trade Show Success

2010-08-12T09:08:00.001-07:00

Trade shows consist of a sea of hundreds, maybe thousands, of trade show displays in a single venue. Many of them have the same look with not a single characteristic that would stand out in the minds of the trade show visitors. Just showing up at an event will not automatically guarantee an overwhelming number of sales. Your booth should stick out to the prospective clients long after the show is over. It is because of this that has made trade show custom displays so popular.

The term "custom" creates the illusion of being expensive, but that isn't always the case. Trade show displays can be customized without costing as much as a small house. Not only can the size and structure be customized to your liking, but accessories can be added for a more personalized look. Some of these trade show accessories include workstations, shelves, plasma screens, etc, but can be as simple as incorporating a few custom touches to an existing display. Another important attribute to a well-designed booth are the trade show graphics.

Not only do these display systems have a one-of-a-kind look, but they are also made to be user-friendly. They can be packed away and assembled easily, saving time and money on installing/dismantling these displays.

If the only thing stopping you from purchasing a unique show display is the fact that you have a tight budget, then throw that concern out the window. Trade show custom displays are extremely affordable and will fit your needs better than any other pre-built display system ever will. If you plan on participating in a trade show, I'm sure you want to get the most out of your money. By standing next to 100 booths that look identical, you're not going to accomplish the goal. Be a trend setter and set yourself apart with a custom display.

Advantages of Retractable Banner Stands

2010-07-29T13:28:00.000-07:00

Back when the trade show industry was just taking off, there were very few trade show displays to choose from. Today, there are hundreds of show displays to choose from, in different configurations and shapes. Even though the economy seems to be getting better, many businesses still aren’t ready to take the plunge and spend a ton of money on a trade show booth. I’m here to tell you that there are exhibit options that take up very little space and are perfect for those companies on a strict budget.

It has been proven that trade shows are very effective in increasing your clientele and networking with neighboring businesses, but if you are concerned about the costs associated with these events, retractable banner stands are the way to go. They cost a fraction of what traditional display systems cost, yet can be just as attention-grabbing.

Retractable stands confirms that with the right trade show graphics, you can get just as much business at an event as you would with 10 foot trade show exhibit. By using bold colors that match your logo’s theme, and include key points instead of paragraphs of text, you can be just as fierce a competitor as the much larger companies who have the budget to match. Many people resort to these low-key display systems because they take seconds to assemble and can be used long after the show is over, such as for in-store advertisements or sidewalk signs.

The graphics on the retractable banner stands can be easily interchanged, allowing you to create a new look as frequently as you would like. The graphics are printed on durable vinyl, making them very difficult to destroy. If you want a trade show display that has as much graphic space as 10 or 20 foot pop up booths, then consider placing several retractable stands together to create a banner stand wall. These show displays are very lightweight, cutting down on transportation and shipping costs.

If you are still on the fence as to whether trade shows are worth the money, I am here to tell you they are well worth the time and money you put into it. Trade shows usually draw in hundreds of people who would never have known about your business before they saw you at the event. Most trade show exhibits are durable enough to be used for years to come, making them a much-needed investment if you want to promote your business in an active event.

Planning Your Next Trade Show

2010-07-08T10:45:00.000-07:00

Successful trade show displays are not limited to how much you spend or how big your display system is. The first thing to remember is success does not come overnight. It takes months and months of planning to iron out all of the details for an event. When planning, take into consideration the following characteristics that are sure to increase the amount of trade show booth traffic.

Location, location, location!
Is the trade show display well-lit?
Create the illusion of demand at your display system.
Let the public know when and where your booth will be located.

If possible, position your trade show booth in an area that has high traffic, such as near the restrooms. This way, attendees will be inclined to visit your booth, whether they planned on it or not. Another thing you should take into consideration is the lighting of the trade show venue. Often times, trade shows are dimly lit, making every single trade show display look the same. Make your display system stand out by adding trade show display lights. LED lights use less energy than regular trade show lights, yet will illuminate your booth just as well.

It is only human to want a product that others want. Strategically place a “sold out” sign on one or two products to make it look as though the products are in demand. This will increase the want for those products. If no one knows what trade show you will be at, then no one will be looking for it. Send out direct mail pieces or call your customers to inform them where the event will be, what days and times your booth will be there, and what promotional items or services you will be offering at the show. Offer a discount on a product or service that is only good at the show to help intrigue your customers to visit your display system.

There are so many advantages to exhibiting at events, such as increasing your clientele and making the name of your company stand out. Give yourself about 12 months to plan your trade show booth if you want to be a success.

Biggest Trade Show Myths

2010-04-19T07:42:00.000-07:00

There are several benefits to exhibiting at trade shows. Creating a well-designed trade show booth will effectively get your company's name out there, generate sales leads, increase your ROI, etc. However, there are still many businesses that are hesitant to begin participating in trade shows. Here are just a few of the most common trade show myths that are stopping businesses from getting the opportunity to increase your sales outside of your office.

Trade shows are a waste of time and money
First of all, you can't expect to just show up at an event with no plan and no objectives. It is important to know what you plan on getting out of a trade show before attending. With a strategy in place, trade shows can be extremely beneficial because over 50 percent of attendees already are very serious about purchasing something at the event. Trade shows will give you the opportunity to talk to over 15 prospective leads who would never have entered your office or store before the event.

Trade shows may seem expensive, but with the right strategies and careful planning, they don't have to be. With the right marketing strategies, you will definitely gain sales that you would not have normally gotten without the help of the event. The cost of doing the show will be far less than the return you receive on this investment, year after year.

I should attend the same trade shows every year
Many companies get so comfortable attending the same events every year, and by doing this, they are missing out on opportunities to broaden their horizon and participate in new events. Although it is important to exhibit at new trade shows, make sure to choose your events wisely. For example, if you sell medical equipment and have gone to the same trade show in Chicago year after year, it may be time to "think outside the box" and attend a doctor's convention in New York to gain a new market segment.

In summary, by attending a trade show you will always walk away with a new found knowledge, good contacts, and most importantly, new prospects for current or future business leads.

Once we leave the show, the work is done
This is one of the biggest myths of all because most employees assume that the leads will contact them to purchase their products. The truth is that once the attendees leave the show, many of them will forget that they even talked to you. That's why it is so important to follow up with these potential clients. Get the contact info from these other businesses/individuals so that you can either call them or send thank-you cards once the show is over. This way, they will remember your name and the name of your company. However, there is no need to contact every single visitor; take note of which leads are the most interested and which leads are not worth pursuing.

There's no need to do any pre-show marketing
Most of the trade show attendees go to the event in order to visit a specific company's booth. Send direct mail pieces to inform everyone of the location of your booth and the times you will be there. Also, having an incentive doesn't hurt either. Offer special discounts that your customers can only take advantage of at your booth.

These are just a few of the myths that are putting a stop to exhibiting for some businesses. The benefits of trade shows definitely outweigh the disadvantages. To recap, exhibits will give you the opportunity to talk to leads who you would have never been able to meet otherwise, will increase your ROI and brand awareness, and there are over 5,000 trade shows to choose from every year, so don't focus on just one show.
Smash Hit Displays can help you create stunning, professional trade show displays at low costs. Whether you are looking for banner stands or 20 foot pop up displays, we carry every type imaginable. Need help designing your trade show graphics? our graphic design team can create eye-catching graphics for you. Give us a call today!

Low-Cost Solutions to Enhancing Your Trade Show Display

2009-12-10T13:50:00.000-08:00

Trade show exhibiting may seem as if it were outside the realm of possibilities when you are on a strict budget. However, there are plenty of trade show accessories available to enhance the look of any trade show booth, no matter how small or large. Here are a few items that can be added to any trade show display without breaking the bank.

Trade Show Flooring
This is an excellent addition to any booth because, after hours of standing and walking, the comfort of trade show flooring will be a much wanted change from the hard concrete floor found at most trade show venues. It is also a great way to set your display apart from the sea of trade show displays. Your company’s name and logo can be embedded into the carpet for a more memorable look. There are several options to choose from, including interlocking, vinyl, and custom carpets.

Lighting
For an inexpensive way to draw more attention to your display, trade show lighting is an excellent solution. By spotlighting specific areas of your booth, you are able to control where the trade show attendee’s eyes will look at first. Trade show venues can be dimly lit, so it is no secret that glowing trade show booths will get more attention than booths that don’t have lighting.

Table Covers
Especially if you have a tabletop display, a table cover will give a more professional look. By adding your logo and using your company’s colors, it will be easier for attendees to remember you. This is also a great accessory to add if you have a table set up to display products or literature. The main purpose of exhibiting at trade shows is to get your products and services recognized by people who normally wouldn’t bother to visit your place of business. So having something that will quickly get you noticed through the crowd of people walking by is a must. And that is exactly what a custom table cover will do for you.

Graphic Case-to-Counter Conversion Kit
Graphic conversion kits will transform a shipping case into a counter and will allow you to print your company’s info on the side for all to see. They will fit into any budget and will make your shipping case more functional instead of being in the way at events.

There are many ways you can make your booth more eye-catching without having to spend a fortune. These are just a few ideas you can use to spruce up your trade show display on a budget.

Becoming a Trade Show Success on a Budget

2009-10-22T09:17:00.000-07:00

In a sea of competing trade show displays at the convention, it can be easy to get overlooked. When it comes to being a trade show success, it’s not about how much money you spent, but how well-designed and eye-catching your booth is. With the right tools, you can have a tabletop trade show display that is just as noticeable as a 20 foot display. There are several ways you can make your booth stand out at your next event. Here are just a few booth enhancing tips to help create a more successful display system.

Hanging Banners
Hanging these trade show displays from the ceiling will help get you noticed from across the trade show floor. There are several sizes and shapes to choose from, anywhere between 4 feet and 20 feet high. Using these display systems can be an effective promotional tool by displaying your logo for everyone in the trade show venue to see.

Technology
Save money on printing brochures and pamphlets by displaying a Power Point presentation. Plasma monitors can be added to just about any booth and will give the entire exhibit a high-tech, innovative look. Using a kiosk is a professional way to display the computer without it getting in the way of the rest of your trade show exhibit. Also, if your booth is swarming with visitors, having this presentation visible for all to see may answer any questions these attendees may have and will weed out those who aren’t interested in what you have to offer from those who would like to talk to you and your booth staff more about your products or services. However, if your budget is tight, you may want to consider bringing your personal laptop and showing individual attendees your presentation or web site.

Lighting
With only 3 seconds to grab the attention of the attendees walking by, it is crucial you have something on your booth that will make it stand out from the surrounding display systems. Adding spotlights is an inexpensive way to get that attention. Trade show venues can be very dimly lit; therefore, having a well-lit, glowing trade show booth will pop out from booths that have no lighting at all.

Creativity
Don’t be afraid to be creative. If attendees see too many booths with similar designs, they are going to end up overlooking them. I suggest attending a few trade shows before your participate in one. Take notes on what display systems catch your eye and what ones bore you. By no means should you copy someone’s well-designed trade show display, but hopefully viewing them will give you some ideas on how to effectively design yours.

Trade shows can be extremely intimidating for those who are new exhibitors, but there are ways to successful draw in a crowd without breaking the bank. Having an attention-grabbing trade show display is an excellent first step to successful trade show exhibiting, but not the only one needed to meet your sales goals. Knowledgeable and professionally-dressed booth staff, demonstrations, and giveaway items are a few other items to keep in mind when preparing for a trade show. Hopefully these tips will help make you more confident when it comes to preparing for your next event.

Advantages of Sustainable Trade Show Displays

2009-09-30T12:46:00.000-07:00

Green is becoming a common word in everyone’s vocabulary, especially in the corporate world. Businesses are beginning to realize that people want to do business with and be a part of a company that is doing their part to be eco-friendly. Making it known at trade shows that you plan on going green is a great way to show the public (and your staff) how serious you are. Having an eco-friendly trade show display is the first step in proving how strongly you feel about the environment. These trade show booths use water-based inks, bamboo, LED lights, and recyclable materials. So what exactly will green trade show displays do for the trade show industry? Well, I’ll tell you…

Saves on Energy Costs
These days, we are all trying to save a buck, in both our personal and professional lives. This is where the LED lights come in. Most sustainable trade show booths come equiped with these special lights. They use up to 95% less energy than traditional trade show display lights, which will result in more money for you to spend on other aspects of the trade show. Not only are LED lights more efficient, but they will also last longer than traditional lights.

Fewer Trees will Need to be Sacrificed
In the old days, trade show displays were made primarily out of solid wood mostly because it was a strong, heavy-duty material. However, thousands of trees were getting cut down for these durable display systems. Many companies also printed flyers and brochures, which, once again, uses fresh-cut trees. This is one of the reasons the trade show industry was known as the 2nd most wasteful industry (right after construction). There are several ways that companies have resorted to using fewer trees for their trade show exhibit. First of all, many trade show displays are now using recyclable aluminum frames instead of wood. Second, bamboo is a very common resource found in sustainable trade show booths because it is a rapidly renewable ingredient, yet is also very strong. And finally, less literature is being printed because many businesses are now using computer presentations to explain the benefits of their products or services instead of listing these details out on paper. Besides, there’s a pretty good chance that most attendees will toss this literature before they even leave the trade show floor. You might as well be throwing your money away.

No Damaging Inks are used
Air emissions from solvent-based inks can be very harmful to the atmosphere, which may be contributed to poor air quality. Solvent-based inks are known to be very hazardous and the excess inks are usually drained directly into oceans or lakes, fatally harming any wildlife that may be living in those bodies of water. However, water-based inks offer the same vibrant colors; yet contain none of the damaging effects that you will find with solvent-based inks.

Green trade show displays will definitely reduce wastes and are changing the trade show industry in a big way. Trade shows are beginning to be thought of as an environmentally safe industry, versus being one of the most wasteful. Eco-friendly trade show booths not only use materials that are harmless to the environment, but they are also very strong and have attractive, cutting-edge designs. It’s a win-win for those of you who want an attractive booth, while still doing your part to protect the atmosphere.

As I have stated earlier, there are many benefits to using green trade show displays versus traditional displays. Not only will you be saving money, but you will have a display system that is built to be long-lasting without using the harmful materials that have been used by past trade show booths.

Eco-Friendly Features to Look for in a Trade Show Display

2009-08-26T06:23:00.000-07:00

Going green is becoming a way of life these days. Everyone is thinking of ways they can reduce wastes and keep the air clean, both personally and professionally. Whether you have opted for a hybrid vehicle or made simple changes such as adding recycling bins to your office, every little effort will help. Have you considered exhibiting with a “green display” at trade shows? Green trade show displays are now available, which are lightweight and made from recycled/recyclable resources. Not only are these trade show booths specifically meant to be eco-friendly, but many standard display systems are now incorporating green materials into the frame and graphics as well. The following are materials to look for when purchasing a portable trade show display if you would like to help the environment.

Metal Frames
The most wasteful part of trade show displays is the wood used. According to an article from Exhibitor Magazine, the trees chopped down and sawed into lumber come from forests and are already 80% destroyed. However, if we continue consuming trees at the rate we’ve been going, there won’t be many left to suck the carbon dioxide out of the air. Aluminum frames today are created with almost 100% recycled materials. These frames are just as, if not more, durable than traditional booth frames.

An Alternative to Wood
If you want to use wood, there is a wood/plastic composite that you can use. It is created from a 50/50 mix of recyclable plastic trash bags and soda bottles, and sawdust from furniture companies. You never have to worry about it rotting or splintering. This is a great way to still have a wood look without being wasteful.

Flooring
Today, there are many green options when it comes to trade show flooring. PLA fibers are used, which will break down in a landfill. The fibers are extremely durable and will last year after year. This flooring option is very lightweight and portable, saving tons of money on freight and fuel costs.

LED Lights
This lighting option uses 95% less energy than the traditional trade show lights. Not only are these energy-efficient lights, but they will also last for up to 10 years.

These are just a few of the ways you can give back to the environment and show your future customers you are eco-friendly.. As I have said earlier, many traditional trade show booths are using green materials in some part of the display booth, but if you want to go completely green, there is a line of green trade show displays. Visit our website at www.smashhitdisplays.com.

Keeping Your Trade Show Environmentally Friendly

2009-07-29T13:53:00.000-07:00

Being environmentally-friendly at trade shows doesn’t stop with the trade show display. There are several things that can be done to show trade show attendees that you care about the environment.

On-Site Recycling Bins
If there’s an item that can be recycled, make sure there’s a bin for it. This includes pop and water bottles, aluminum cans, paper, and any other items that can be recycled.

Reuse Trade Show Displays
Instead of purchasing a new display system every year, buy a booth display that is built to last year after year. You should still update your trade show graphics as you get new products or services. Many trade show graphic panels are now being made out of eco-friendly materials. There is also a huge variety of green trade show displays that have gone on the market. These exhibits are lightweight, yet strong and reliable, allowing you to reuse them.

Before Throwing Away, Consider if it can be Reused
Sure you may end up with a stack of brochures and other promotional literature that never got handed out to the attendees. Think about events you will be attending that will allow you to reuse them. You can also bring them back to your office or store and hand them out to customers who are strongly interested in what your company has to offer. Your promotional literature should be printed on recycled paper. For more than one page, make sure and print on both sides of the paper.

If possible, try to avoid using paper brochures all together. Instead, bring a laptop and either show attendees a PowerPoint presentation of your company or show them your web site and be prepared to answer any questions they may have.

Water Coolers
Have refillable water coolers at your booth, allowing attendees to fill up their water bottles without having to waste money on buying more water bottles. With the hundreds of people who squeeze into the trade show hall, it can get extremely warm. Having a water station is an excellent way to cut down on the number of plastic bottles that would otherwise be used. It is also one more way to get a potential customer into your booth.

There are plenty of things that can be done to save the environment, while also saving you money. Not only will the previous tips keep attendees and exhibitors from wasting resources, it will be the proof attendees will need to know just how committed your company is to keeping this Earth green.

What is Your Reason for Not Switching to Green Trade Show Displays?

2009-07-21T13:00:00.000-07:00

There are several advantages to going “green” at your next trade show. Green trade show displays reduce waste, are lightweight, and are made from recycled and reusable materials. Although many companies are converting to eco-friendly display systems and products, there are still some obstacles standing in the way of the remaining few businesses who are hesitating on replacing their current booth displays for a sustainable trade show exhibit. Exhibitor Magazine published an article, “An Inconvenient Booth,” which lists several myths that are stopping some people from making the big switch.

Myth - It’s Too Expensive

With a dwindling economy, “budget cuts” are probably words you have to use frequently. A huge misconception with exhibitors is that Eco-friendly trade show display costs more than the traditional booth display. In fact, 89 percent of exhibitors would only be willing to make the switch to green display options if it cost less or the same as traditional options. In reality, green trade show displays are very comparable to traditional displays. It is understandable how tight everyone’s budget is, but can you really afford not to go green? More people will be drawn to you if they know you are strong advocates for protecting the environment. Over half of exhibitors are switching to green, 51 percent to be exact, because it will enhance their brand and image.

Myth - Lack of Variety

Years ago, there was a very limited amount of eco-friendly trade show booths. Today, almost every trade show booth uses some form of environmentally-friendly materials. Whether the trade show display graphics are made of recyclable materials, or the frame is lightweight, saving money and fuel when shipping, “green” options are now becoming a necessity for all display systems. But if you would like a trade show display that is 100 percent eco-friendly, there is a line of Eco-System trade show displays that are made completely of recyclable materials, and include LED lighting, which uses less energy.

Myth - Green Trade Show Displays Won’t Perform as Well as Traditional Trade Show Booths

Many people think that because green display systems are made from recycled materials instead of brand new materials they won’t last a long as traditional display booths. On the contrary, green trade show booths are built to be extremely heavy-duty and durable, lasting year after year.

Whether your reason is one of the three stated above, or you have an entirely different reason for not making the switch to green trade show products, the payoff will outweigh and concerns you may have. As said earlier, not only will you be helping the environment, but people are going to be much more attracted to a company that cares about preventing any further damage to the atmosphere, than a company that is known for being wasteful.

What Are Green Trade Show Displays Made From?

2009-07-15T09:35:00.000-07:00

Many exhibitors are not turning to green exhibiting because it is the latest trend in trade show displays, but rather have a newfound love for saving the environment. According to a study by Exhibitor Magazine, 66 percent of exhibitors are turning to “green” display systems because their environmental and social causes in general have increased. It is because of these exhibitors that the trade show industry is starting to turn around and become less known for being the 2nd most wasteful industry.
Not only will you be helping the environment, but green practices will enhance your company’s image. The following materials will be found in most green trade show exhibits.

Recycled aluminum will use up to 95 percent less energy than creating brand new aluminum.

Wood/plastic composite come in a variety of colors, yet are still made of sawdust and plastic trash.

Solvent-based printing has become more eco-friendly, while still giving your graphics a high-quality, stunning look.

Graphics made from recycled material are the way to go. You can still get the professional look while becoming less wasteful.

LED lighting uses up to 90 percent less energy than the traditional trade show lighting options.

Bamboo is rapidly renewable and environmentally safe.

A lightweight frame will reduce freight fuel and shipping costs.

Green trade show exhibiting is spreading like a wildfire and will continue to grow. Do your part for the environment by converting to this environmental trend. More and more suppliers are adopting greener display systems. These exhibits are not only eco-friendly, but also heavy-duty, allowing you to use it year after year.

Jumping on the Green Bandwagon

2009-07-07T13:16:00.000-07:00

Many companies are now jumping on the environmental bandwagon, especially at trade shows. There are several things you can do to make your marketing efforts more “green”, starting with your trade show display.

The trade show industry has always been known for being the second most wasteful industry, after construction, until now. Many trade show display manufacturers are now incorporating recycled materials into the booths. There are new green trade show displays on the market known as in-line displays. They come in 10x10, 10x20, 10x30, and 20x20 sizes and are made primarily of recycled materials. Everything from the aluminum frame to the fabric graphics are made from eco-friendly material.

If you are looking for something a little more compact, then maybe a banner stand or tabletop display is right for you. Eco Systems created a line of banner stands and pop up displays that are solely made of “green” materials.

Choosing an environmentally-friendly display system is definitely a step in the right direction if you are trying to convert to “green” exhibiting, but here is a list of a few other ideas that may not only help the environment, but will also show your customers how serious you are about helping the environment.

1. Have several trash bins at your booth; one for aluminum, one for bottles, and one for paper.

2. Carry less paper materials. Instead, send your customers to your web site for the info they want. Better yet, bring a laptop with Internet and show your customers everything they want to know on your web site.

3. Use giveaway items that are clearly eco-friendly, such as solar powered items.

The trade show industry has drastically turned around in the past 2-3 years. What once was one of the most wasteful industries, is now becoming known for its “green” efforts. Just by focusing on the right trade show display and the little ways you can show your customers you want to help the environment, will help make your company known for caring for the environment.

Successful Trade Show Displays on a Budget

2009-06-03T17:35:00.000-07:00

Are you on a tight budget, but would like to participate in trade shows? Before you consider cancelling, there are a number of trade show displays that are affordable and, if done effectively, will get you the business you want. Smaller display systems can be just as successful as the larger ones, as long as you are using the right tools. Here are a few tips to making a smaller trade show booth stand out just as much (if not more) than the larger booths.

Lighting
Lighting is the perfect addition to add that extra glow your trade show display needs. It is a great accessory to add to draw awareness to your display system. In fact, Exhibitor Magazine stated that lighting can increase the awareness of your trade show booth by 30 to 50 percent.

Simplicity is Key
I know it is very tempting to try to add as much to your exhibit as possible. You want to give your visitors as much information as possible on your products. However, adding more than 2 products to your booth will get you overlooked and will end up hurting your sales. One or two products are ideal for displaying on your exhibit. If you want to inform possible clients of any other products you carry, bring brochures that will give them this information, or hand out cards with your website address so that they can research these products on their own.

Give Your Visitors and Staff Space
If you are planning on adding counters or kiosks to your display booth, make sure that there will still be enough room for your staff and visitors to maneuver around your exhibit. If your booth seems too cozy, these potential customers will most likely move on to the next display that will give them the space they want.

Bold Colors
Use bright colors in your display that will get you noticed, instead of neutral colors. If neutral colors are used, your trade show display will end up blending in to the background.

It is possible to create a trade show exhibit that is just as eye-catching as the larger, more expensive exhibits. These tips should help you create a booth that is not only affordable, but also stunning.

Source: http://www.exhibitoronline.com/tips/tip-display.asp?counter=664

Trade Show Ideas That Will Keep You Visitors Happy

2009-05-13T06:19:00.000-07:00

We all want to stand out when participating in trade shows. That is what sells our products. Obviously, our goal should not be to look like every other competitors. No one is going to remember you or your company when there are 50 other booths that look exactly the same. Before participating in a convention, attend a few conventions on your own, keeping a couple questions in the back of your mind:

1.) What drew me to this display in the first place?
2.) Why do I want to purchase from this company instead of from the booth across the aisle?

These are things you need to keep in mind when preparing yourself, your staff, and your booth for your next event. One great way to eliminate the similarities between your display system and the competitor’s is by making a list. While still in the planning stages, make two columns: one column should list the things you would like to add to your trade show booth, while the other column should list the items you saw while attending other trade shows that caught your eye. Once these two lists have been made, begin crossing out the items that are similar on both lists. The goal of this exercise is to find out what ideas you have that are unique and different from your competitors and that will make you stand out. Those are the things you should be focused on.

Although your trade show display is a very important part of your booth, it is not the only piece that will attract people to your display system. Is the staff just standing around or are they engaging potential customers? Are you bringing potential customers in with giveaways, games and promotional material? Once you have them interested, that’s when you should approach them with your sales pitch.

With only three seconds to attract potential customers to your trade show exhibit, it is extremely important to have a display that will set you apart from the competition. However, as I have stated before, this is not the only reason people will stop at your booth. Making sure that you have appropriate promotional material lined up for your visitors, your staff is friendly and inviting, and that your booth is unique is sure to make the sale. If your display is unique and different from your competition, this will help you to stand out from your competition and get the ROI you want.

Are You Secretly Sending Business to Your Competitors?

2009-05-04T09:19:00.000-07:00

It is no secret that you need customers to have a successful business, but are you’re marketing efforts focusing on attracting the right customers? According to Laura Lake (About.com), businesses spend 80 percent of their marketing dollars going after new customers. This may seem like a good idea, but it is your repeat customers who spend 33 percent more than new customers. Another effective, low-cost marketing tool is through word-of mouth. It is the repeat customers who will refer 107 percent more than non-customers.

It may seem a lot easier than it really is to keep repeat customers. There are a number of reasons that customers will leave your business and go to your competition instead. Some of these reasons include:

Your prices are too high

With an unstable economy, businesses are going to spend more time researching several companies that will offer the same products at lower prices. They are definitely going to purchase from your competitors if they sell their products at lower prices.

They had complaints that had not been resolved

Nothing is more frustrating than having a problem with a product or service that no one seems to want to help you with. One way to gain your customer’s loyalty is by finding the most efficient way to solve any problems they may have. If you do not attempt to solve these issues, they will look to your competitors to solve the issues you were not willing to solve for them. In fact they may also feel as though you don’t care to help them with their complaints.

Trade Show Booths in this Slow Economy

2009-04-24T07:47:00.000-07:00

Trade Show Booths in this Slow Economy

Being in the middle of smaller private companies plans to get more customers we have the first hand reports of how our customers are doing and how they are doing it. It has been a great feeling for our team to receive emails, cards, candy and phone calls from our clients thanking us for the success they are seeing at their trade shows when the people around them are not.
What is this big dark secret that we have that makes a trade show display successful. Of course it is our knowledge base of product fit and overall trade show knowledge but all this is based on fundamentals of human nature and know what the propose of a trade show display is.

1. Keep your space open so they fill free to move about your space.
2. Use a clean simple look to your area so they can immediately who you are and what you do.
3. Have sharp display that is different and well cared for. This does represent your company and how you look to your customer. If your booth is plain and not well maintained how anyone can think your company is any different. It is a very important to look your best.
4. Have your sales staff dressed in new, sharp looking clothing. The boss at the show should wear a suit and represent a business man image.
5. The design of your graphics and all of your trade show booths is key to your success. Show people who you are, what you do and what makes you different or better.

What we do at Smash Hit Displays is blend all of these requirements for a successful show; our only concern is that you are successful at the trade show.

Getting Ahead of The Competition in a Recession

2009-02-25T13:56:00.000-08:00

Recession has become a word used in our everyday conversations. In fact, we have been completely consumed with the economy, in both our home and work life. People who have never felt a need to watch the news are now watching it regularly with more interest than ever. Although the economy is slow, it is not the time to cut marketing dollars. Here are some tips to get booming business in a not-so-booming economy.

1.) Rise Above Competitors

These strong businesses work hard to help their prospects and customers flourish during these tough financial times. Finding ways to help you customer base save money will help make your business much more successful.

2.) Protect Your Customer Base

Competitors will try to win over your current customers by promising to save them some money. Not only should you be trying to get new customers, you should also do what you can to keep your current customers. By helping these consumers solve their problems, they will become loyal to your company.

3.) “Survival of the Fittest”

In this current recession, there is no room for mistakes. It is crucial to read up on your industry, attending corporate training classes, and to touch up on basic sales seminars you have attended in the past.

4.) URGENT

Every aspect of your business should be treated as if there is a “sense of urgency.” Just because the economy is slow does not mean your business should run slower.

5.) Trade Shows

When times are tight, your advertising budget should not be cut. Trade shows are a great way to get your business and products noticed. It gives you a chance to meet and greet potential customers. Whether you have a 20 x 20 truss system display or a 6 foot table top pop up display, you will be glad you spent the money to promote your business.

Source: http://www.eyesonsales.com/archives/blog/5_tips_for_beating_your_competitors_in_this_recession

Secrets to Becoming a Trade Show Success

2009-02-17T08:12:00.000-08:00

Trade Shows are a great way to meet potential customers as well as business partners. Are you still on the fence as to whether or not exhibiting is worth the time and money? Statistics from Industry surveys show that 79 percent attend shows to help them make up their mind as to what they should purchase and 70 percent intend to purchase at least one product. No Matter how you look at it, these numbers imply that you would get sales from people who normally would not purchase from you. In order to influence these people to visit your trade show display, it is important to not only have a booth that sticks out, but to also have a warm, inviting environment that makes the attendees comfortable and willing to hear what you have to say. Here are some things to consider when preparing for your next show.

Graphics

With only 3 seconds to impress attendees who are just walking by, it is important to have simple, yet bold graphics for your trade show display. When driving down the freeway, are you going to pay attention to a billboard that has a simple design, with a few words, or are you going to pay attention to one that is very “busy” and has a lot of different pictures and wording? If there is too much going on, the attendees will get bored and venture to a display that has a very straightforward, simple message and graphics. Choosing effective colors are also important. Blues, whites, and greens are very professional-looking, yet can blend in too easily. Flashy colors such as reds, yellows, and oranges may grab their attention much easier, but be careful how you use them. These colors may be considered too strong to some attendees.

Lighting

If done correctly, lighting may be used to spotlight certain products you have on display. It is a great way to draw attention directly to the area you would like focused on.

Music

Trade Shows can be extremely nerve-racking for the attendees, especially with hundreds (maybe thousands) of people walking down the aisles in one building. Relaxing music may help calm their nerves (as well as your nerves). Consider using nature sounds or other gentle sounds to draw people into your booth.

Literature Racks

Let’s just say that everyone staffed at your booth were assisting potential leads. Having a literature rack available with brochures and other marketing materials will make it easier for all attendees to get information on your products without having to wait for you.

Booth Design

One of the biggest pet peaves I have when attending trade shows is exhibits that do not have enough room to accommodate a large amount of traffic. You may miss out on sales by not having an ample amount of space available to all of those interested attendees. Truss System Displays are known for having an innovative, dynamic design while still having a sufficient amount of room for those who may be interested in what you have to offer. If you are looking for a trade show display that is a little more low-key, the pop up trade show display may be just what you are looking for. With it’s “small-to-large” pop up frame, it takes a matter of minutes to set up, yet has an open design that will make it easier to maneuver through the booth.

With these tips, there is no way you will go wrong at your next trade, convention, meeting, etc.

Effective Ways to Increase Your ROI

2009-02-09T11:34:00.000-08:00

Trade show planning does not stop at the show itself. It takes months of preparations to be successful. Here are five effective tips to becoming a trade show success long after the show is over.

1.) Pre-show Marketing

Although hundreds, possibly thousands of people attend trade shows, letting the public, especially current customers, know where your booth will be located is a good idea. Send out direct mail pieces with promotions that are only for the show. An example of this would be a direct mail piece that was sent out by a cell phone company. They offered free activations (normally a $30 value) and phone rebates that would only be effective if they purchased the phone and service at the exhibit. They received a huge amount of new business from this promotion. With an economy that won’t be getting better any time soon, it is crucial to have coupons or some other form of discounts available to the attendees.

Another valuable pre-show marketing mailer that could be sent out would be to inform potential attendees of a drawing you will have at your booth. Whether it be for a briefcase, vacation, or a t-shirt, everyone loves to get free stuff. This may be reason enough to get them over to your booth.

2.) A Dazzling Trade Show Exhibit

Ah, yes. This is the most important tip of all. Obviously you can’t exhibit at a trade show without a trade show booth. With only a few seconds to gain the attention of your potential new client, it is important to have a display that will catch their attention. When it comes to graphics, less is more. Having a photo of your product with just a few words would be remembered more than having several photos with a paragraph of text. It needs to be something easy to see and read while walking by.

The display itself is equally as important as the graphics. One of the most popular displays is called the pop up display. Just as the name implies, the frame “pops up” into place. It is very easy to set up and take down. Having a display that is simple to setup yet has a unique design is key to gaining attention. The Alumilate Hybrid Display is one of the most innovative displays on the market. With the unique look of the frame and canopy, to the flawless, stretching fabric used to print your graphics on, you are sure to get positive feedback from attendees. This is also very lightweight, keeping the shipping costs at a minimum.

The Xpressions Fabric Tension Display is a three dimensional display that can be configured in several different ways. The graphics are also interchangeable, making a new display at each show. This is a great way to keep your display fresh and unique.

3.) Staff Training

Your booth staff can make or break your trade show success. Consider these two examples: Booth A is staffed by employees who spend more time eating, drinking, talking on their phone, and talking to each other than they do talking to potential leads. These staffers are also not knowledgeable of their products or company. However, the staff at Booth B are professionally dressed, end phone conversations when potential customers enter your booth, do not eat while in their booth, and are very passionate about the company they work for and the products they sell. Which booth are you most likely to visit?

4.) Charming Giveaways

As I said before, everyone likes to get something for nothing. Consider giving away items that can be used regularly, rather than something that is of no use. It is important to have the name of your company on these items in order to be remembered by these potential customers. If you are looking for something that is sure to get attention, consider a giveaway wheel. The attendees will spin the wheel and get the prize shown.

5.) Lead Follow-up

Although the show may be over, the marketing is far from complete. While at the show, get the contact info of those individuals who may be interested in the products/services you have to offer. After the show is over, make sure to follow up with these people. Don’t wait too long though; a week after the show would be a good time to start calling those people back.

Stop Making Excuses for not Wanting to Participate in Trade Shows

2008-12-29T13:10:00.001-08:00

“Trade shows are a waste of time and money because I don’t get any results.” I often hear this statement as being the reason companies decide not to take advantage of the exhibiting opportunity. However, there’s a common mistake made by those companies who have ever made that comment. Marketing your trade show booth does not end before or after the show. Those companies who are successful at conventions make sure to plan and follow-up with their leads. Researching the venue is crucial in order to find out what other vendors will be at the same show. By doing this research, you will also be able to find out what types of attendees will be there.
Set a specific goals, such as how many products you want to sell, how many leads you want to generate, etc. Once you have decided what you plan on getting out of the trade show, develop a realistic budget to help make these goals a reality. Printed marketing materials such as brochures are great because the attendees can take this information with them.
Once the trade show is over and done with, the marketing does not stop. To be remembered by your leads, not only should you have an excellent presentation at the show, you should also follow up with these leads. While at the show, get the contact information from your potential customers. Give them a call soon after the show is over with.
To make your trade show display a hit, give Smash Hit Displays a call. We have everything from banner stands to flooring to truss systems. Are you on a tight deadline? Let Smash Hit Displays design your graphics for you.

Getting Out of the Slump Known as Recession

2008-11-18T21:15:00.000-08:00

I am starting to see a bright light at the end of the recession tunnel. With gas prices starting to decrease, more money is available for Christmas shopping. There’s no better time to start promoting your business at trade shows. With Smash Hit Displays’ exhibits, you can have an extravagant booth without the extravagant cost.
Our pop-up exhibits come in a wide range of sizes, easy to set up, and are budget-friendly. It comes with fabric or graphic panels that quickly attach to the frame with the use of magnetic channel bars.
We also carry banner stands for those of you who would prefer a more low-key display. Whether you would like to use a single bannerstand or make a wall of banner stands, we have all of your supplies in one location. Let Smash Hit Displays help you become the star of the show!

Use those baby eyes

2008-11-03T11:34:00.000-08:00

Keeping your creativity fresh and contemporary is crucial to the survival of your trade show exhibit. Whether you are brand new to the exhibiting world or have been going to trade shows for years, you need to go to the show with an open mind in order to see what displays you feel have an intriguing design. Susan A. Friedman calls this technique “baby eyes.” If you have ever watched a baby you have noticed how fascinated they are with everything they come across that is new to them. When they view these objects, they have no preconceived notions and view them as they are, hence the name “baby eyes.”
Consider attending a trade show that is not related to your products or services. This way you will have no formed opinions and can examine the booths solely on the design, colors and signs used. For this reason, take the opportunity to bring someone from your company that has never been to an exhibit. He or she will have a higher chance of using their “baby eyes” to take notice of the flashy booths. Not only should you pay attention to what catches your eye, but take note of what displays make you angry or stressed.
If you would like to read more on this topic, go to: http://www.tsnn.com/newsletters/41207/art2.htm.
Smash Hit Displays has a knowledgeable, professional staff that knows exactly what it takes to make you stand out. We constantly monitor the competition to make sure we have the lowest prices and the latest designs in the market. If it is flashy you are looking for, consider checking out our newest product, the Alumalite. For one low price, you get the aluminum hardware, inkjet graphics, a trapeze canopy cover, and frosted plex a glass header and wings. LCD plasma monitors, 200 watt halogen lights and counters can also be added for that cutting edge look. If you don’t have time to design your graphics, let us do it for you. Consider Smash Hit Displays for all of your trade show needs!

Getting Rid of "Garbage Leads"

2008-09-26T07:27:00.000-07:00

Due to the abundance of people who will be visiting your trade show display, it isn’t always easy to determine which attendees are there because they are genuinely interested in your product. A great way to get contact information on people who you may not have a chance to talk to at the trade show is called the BCIFB method; otherwise known as the business-card-in-the-fish-bowl method. As the name states, you will need a fish bowl or some other devise to be used to hold tons of business cards from those individuals who visited your booth. The idea of this is to collect as much info on those who genuinely want to find out more about your product.
Of course, this method will not guarantee that everyone who put their contact info in the bowl is interested in your products. If this is a concern for you, instead of using business cards, you may want to have short forms for attendees to fill out that, not only will give their contact info, but will check a box on the form that says “Yes, I am interested.”
Richard Hendershot, author of the article Gathering Trade Show Leads, has several useful tips to getting prospective leads instead of “garbage leads.” To read more on these tips, go to http://www.tradeshow-display-experts.com/trade-show-leads.html.

Can Attracting Too Many People Be More Harmful than Helpful?

2008-08-26T14:02:00.001-07:00

There would be no point in exhibiting at trade shows if, while showing off your products and display, you drew every single attendee to your exhibit. Many of those attendees may just be responding to your larger-than-life, brightly colored display without having any intention of buying from you. In fact, you may end u p wasting so much time and energy talking to someone who doesn’t want your product and ignoring those who were interested in what you have to say. The best way to draw in your target market is through a custom-built display. Smash Hit Displays can create a custom display based solely on your specifications. We guarantee you will get the product you want by providing you with renderings of what the finished product will look like. We will make any changes necessary to make our client happy. If you would like to view some examples of custom displays, go to http://www.smashhitdisplays.com/displays/custom-displays/index.html.

Cover all the Senses to Create an Effective Exhibit

2008-08-19T07:20:00.000-07:00

With less than three seconds to grab the attention of the attendees, your marketing message must be conveyed as concisely as possible. Your trade show display should intrigue all the senses in order to be successful. Less is more when it comes to your graphics. According to the Trade Show Advisor, the words used should be to-the-point and minimal. Bold, colorful graphics must serve as the focal point of your exhibit, which will cover the sense of sight.
The odds of someone purchasing your product will significantly go up if they get a chance to touch the product and actually use it. The use of sound can be a great way to enhance your exhibit. Not only does this include music, but having a speaker or live presentation will promote your product and company in an effective way. Keep these ideas in mind as you begin to prepare for your next trade show or conference.

Cover all the Senses to Create an Effective Exhibit

2008-08-19T07:17:00.000-07:00

The Secret to Becoming an International Success

2008-08-12T08:13:00.000-07:00

Going to a different continent for a trade show can be a very exciting (and stressful) time. However, if you plan to do well at the exhibit, you must do some research on the cultural differences in the country you will be traveling to. It is crucial you plan what clothes you will be wearing in conjunction with their customs. For example, white clothes are worn at funerals in China. If you do not wear something that will be accepted, you may offend this society. If you offend them, you can kiss the chances of doing well at this show bye-bye.
The colors of your display are just as important as the colors of your clothes. Hire a designer who understands and is familiar with the colors, symbols, and designs that are accepted in the specific country you plan to visit.
Another tip for taking your trade show display international is to not underestimate the significance of your marketing message. According to Trade-Show-Advisor.com, it would be a good idea to find an expert translator who can help you translate your marketing message. Do not risk showing up at the exhibit without knowing if your translation is correct on the trade show booth.
The point I am trying to make very clear is the fact that you must do research on the country. Remember that you are representing your company, and if you offend the unique society you are visiting, your entire company may be looked down on.

The Pros of Using Fabric Tension Displays

2008-08-06T13:35:00.000-07:00

Fabric tension displays are rapidly becoming a favorite among exhibitors. Some of the many reasons are due to the lightweight, sturdy frame and the dramatic, bold graphics. The best part about the fabric used for the graphics is the fact that it is wrinkle-resistant and will stretch across the frame, giving your trade show display a clean, crisp look.
If you are looking for a booth that will blow your audience away without blowing your bank account away, consider the Entasi Fabric Tension Display. There are several frame shapes to choose from; including sloped, curved, or flat. Most of the Entasi displays come with standoff shelves, giving your exhibit that extra “oomph.”
If you are looking for something more low key, you have the option of getting a tabletop Entasi display as well.

How to Get the Most From Your Exhibiting Experience

2008-08-05T08:36:00.001-07:00

With a rocky economy, more and more people are trying to save money. Therefore, the number of exhibitors and attendees are at a record low. This being said, it is more important than ever to market your products and/or services before and after the actual trade show. Giveaways have a very high success rate, and if the prize is valuable enough, will give your customers and potential customers reason enough to visit your display at the exhibit. Consider using press releases, direct mail, or advertisements to notify the public of your location at the trade show, what times you will be available, the dates of the show, and what you plan to give away.
The marketing efforts don’t stop after the event, it is crucial to follow-up with those attendees you spoke to. One strategy that I have found very useful in my days as a salesperson are the use of Thank You cards. Send out these cards thanking the customers or potential customers for taking the time to visit your booth and speak to you at the trade show. I have witnessed a large number of people who purchased a product from specific sales associates because these individuals took the time to thank them. This little technique will do wonders for the amount of business you receive from the exhibit.

The New Display on the Block

2008-08-01T12:06:00.000-07:00

Are you having a difficult time deciding on a design for your trade show display that will “wow” your audience? Look no further than the innovative design of the Linear Hybrid display. These lightweight displays are painless to assemble and do not require you to take out a loan to cover the cost of shipping. In fact, Smash Hit Displays offers free ground shipping anywhere in the United States. This is one of the most cost-effective displays on the market. With the option of using a ten-foot or twenty-foot display, the graphics will come alive with the bold look of a center graphic and the use of wings on each side, emphasizing the visual. Included in the Linear trade show display packages are Lumina lights, cases, graphics, wings, a header, and a sturdy aluminum frame.

Custom Trade Show Displays

2008-07-30T10:18:00.000-07:00

Custom trade show displays may be costly, but will be well worth the money. The object of exhibiting at a trade show is to gain attention from attendees who you wouldn’t have met otherwise. Pop-up displays, panel systems, and truss systems are “safe”, reliable trade show displays that will be used by several businesses at the same trade show you are exhibiting at. Customizing your trade show booth will give you a unique look, setting you apart from the competition and making your company easier to remember. Smash Hit Displays will design your trade show booth based on your specifications. Let us take the stresses of designing your exhibit off of your shoulders.

Planning for Success

2008-07-29T08:42:00.001-07:00

Although it takes months of planning for three seconds of fame, trade shows are one of the best ways to get your product and name out there. Some components that must be considered when planning are size, graphics and staffing. With hundreds of designs to choose from, carefully decide what trade show booth will fulfill your needs (and space requirements). The truss system consists of a very well-built frame metal frame, shipping cases, and crisp graphics that are sure to win over your audience. Although it is a fairly large exhibit, no tools are required to assemble the frame. Pop up displays are also great to use if you need something that can quickly be set up, yet has an impressive look.
Graphics are probably the most important element of your trade show booth because this is what will gain the attention of the audience. The picture should be large and distinct, yet the text should be very limited.
The employees you choose to go to the trade show will be representing your company. How they dress, how warm and inviting they are, and how much energy they have are all characteristics they must possess.

Outdoor Banner Stands

2008-07-21T13:04:00.000-07:00

Outdoor Banner Stands are a great way to gain attention outside of the office or trade show. With a heavy duty base and high quality graphic material, this type of display can withstand even the worst weather conditions. If you are serious about outdoor advertising, consider the Spinnaker billboard. You also have the option of using both sides of the billboard for your presentation or advertising needs. If you are looking for something a little more low key, the Bowhead outdoor banner stand would be a perfect match. The unique characteristic of the Bowhead is the fact that the graphic will bleed through, allowing everyone to see it from both sides. They are perfect being positioned in front of your store. All outdoor banner stands come in a number of different sizes.

Preparing for Your First Trade Show

2008-05-28T10:40:00.001-07:00

If you are brand new to the trade show game, there is no such thing as too much preparation. Goals must be made, research must be done, and a trade show marketing plan must be set. Exhibiting at a show that is irrelevant to your products and company would be a waste of time and money. Research as many trade shows as possible in order to find the one that will be the most beneficial. One way to find the most appropriate trade shows is by talking to trade show organizers and asking questions that will help determine what types of companies and attendees will participate.
The exhibit must be designed around the marketing objectives, not the other way around. Once these goals are decided, your graphics and booth layout should clearly identify the message you are trying to communicate to the attendees. If you would like to read more tips on how to prepare for your first show, go to http://www.tradeshowmarketing.com/5-ways-a-business-can-prepare-for-its-first-trade-show.shtml.

What to Steer Clear of at Trade Shows

2008-05-22T08:27:00.000-07:00

When attending a trade show, what booth are you most likely to stop at: one that looks similar to all of the other booths or one that has a different look to it. It’s not only your booth that should have a unique look to it; you should also promote products that are unique and cutting edge. According to research done by Susan Friedmann, 76 percent of people attend trade shows in order to discover what’s new and exciting. Even if your product isn’t ready to be used by the public, using trade shows to promote it may make it more successful when it is ready to be used.
“Assume” is not a word that should be in your vocabulary; in fact, it is this word that may hurt you more than help you. When at a trade show, focus on the features of your products. Explain them as if you were explaining them to a 6-year-old. It is important to refrain from using words you would only know in your industry. If possible, innovate your current product(s). Even the slightest change will get your customers to buy your product, just so they can try out the new “ingredient”. If you would like more tips on how to succeed at trade shows, go to http://www.thetradeshowcoach.com/article69.html.

Trade Show Checklist

2008-05-20T06:56:00.000-07:00

Before attending a trade show, you should set goals on what you expect the outcome to be. According to Trade Show Advisor, some questions you may want to ask yourself would be as follows; “How many leads do I plan to get from exhibiting?” “How many current customers would I like to attend the trade show?” “Do I want media exposure?” These are all valid questions that may help you reach your objectives.
It is also important to determine who your target audience will be; this way, you will know how your marketing message should be conveyed. This should have already been determined because your trade show booth should have been designed around this target market.
Do your homework before even setting foot in a trade show. Ask the trade show committee for a list of who has attended in the past, find out what types of booths are used; ask about power sources and exhibitor fees. This will give you a better feel for the types of attendees that will be there and how your booth should be designed.
Let the professional staff of Smash Hit Displays design your next trade show booth. We have thousands of exhibits to choose from, including banner stands, pop ups, panel systems, Alumalites, and truss systems. Our graphic designers knows what it takes to get noticed. Whether you have your own graphics or need them designed by scratch, Smash Hit Displays can do it all. Remember Smash Hit Displays for all of your trade show needs.

You Have to Spend a Little to Get a Lot

2008-05-07T12:40:00.001-07:00

Tabletop popup displays are easy to travel with, efficient to set up, and you don’t have to sell your house to afford one. Although they are one of the least expensive trade show displays, there are also a few reasons why they may not be practical for you to purchase. If you are looking to purchase a display that will last through multiple shows and/or multiple years, you may want to purchase something that is much stronger and able to last through the demanding and strenuous trade show season. With a tabletop display, you may end up spending more money on repairing your display, updating your graphics to include your latest products, etc.

Alumalite displays are the way to go if you are serious about trade show exhibiting. Included with the display is an aluminum frame, a trapeze canopy, inkjet graphics, and a frosted plex a glass header and wings to give your display that extra oomph. Smash Hit Displays sells these innovative displays as well as hundreds of other displays, both big and small, at competitive prices.
We have everything from flooring, including hardwood, free standing and fixed counters, 200 watt and 75 watt halogen lights, and any other accessory you can think of. Smash Hit Displays also has a reliable, professional graphics department that can either design your graphics from scratch or print up graphics you already have. Let Smash Hit Displays help make your next trade show exhibit a smash hit!