(I’ve
been doing it since 1985 – maybe if I had worn more sensible shoes,
I wouldn’t be suffering with bunions now – but that’s another
story – mustn’t waffle)
Choose the right
exhibition stand space – Location is paramount
(I know budget is as
well).
When choosing your space it is so important to ascertain the flow of
visitors, after all you don’t want to be missed. Beware of
‘dead’ areas, this can happen when there is a big activity feature
to one side of the hall attracting visitors.
A good place is by the eating/drinking areas where visitors
stop for a while (and sometimes exhibitors!).
Check for building obstructions, pillars, stairwells etc.
Always ensure your stand is well lit, do not rely on the
existing hall lighting.
Check
what Companies are exhibiting around you.
Will they conflict with your service or products. A good
location is at the end of a row, then you can have two sides open
ensuring maximum visibility to your stand and for you to grab your
unsuspecting potential client.
Bear
in mind that if you are in the centre of a row, you have to be quick
to catch the visitor walking past. If you prefer to be in an open
space rather than within a shell scheme, please remember not every
venue is carpeted so you will be responsible for this and if electrics
are required you may need a platform to be built on your area.
Please ensure you check this. Great, now go on to the next
step.
You
have now selected the best location for your exhibition stand (and of
course your budget).
What
are you going to put onto the stand?
Exhibiting needn’t be expensive, remember with your initial
outlay for right product, you can use it again and again.
What are you selling? Product or Service? Too many people make
the mistake of thinking that they must exhibit everything they can
supply, this can be a very big mistake, the stand looks messy and the
few seconds you have to attract the potential client could cause them
just to be confused.
You
know
what it is that sets
you
apart from your competitors,
so push this message across. If your message is strong enough your
potential clients will want to know more.
Remember a picture speaks a thousand words and it is the first
thing people look at on an exhibition stand, so if you have lots of
products, show them in the picture.
Do you need to display leaflets? Do you need a counter to
present your portfolio, take names etc.? Do you need power points for
lighting, computers etc.?
Ensure
you book these early or you could end up with a late booking penalty.
Check all of this in your Exhibitor’s Manual.
Next
read part 2 - Choosing your exhibition stand
New to exhibiting
advice on purchasing
banner stands
outdoor banners
and
popup systems