Trade Show Pitfalls

Your beautiful booth can quickly become messy, because often people just leave their trash on your table rather than looking for a waste can. So keep an empty box under the table and toss your used paper, cups, etc. in there.

Always honor trade show protocol. Never try to sell while during the show unless you know it’s expected. The purpose of most shows are to gather prospect names only. If someone seems to be a good prospect, write the information on the back of his or her business card.

If you get tired of answering the same question over and over again, take a break. Walk away for a few minutes. Try walking outside and get some fresh air. Do whatever you need to do to stay alert and attentive throughout the show. Many times, the last person I talked with turned out to be the best contact of the event.

Even if attendees dwindle to a trickle before closing time, never tear down your booth before the show is actually over. This is forbidden, and most event planners will never allow you to return if you do so. And you never know who might show up at the last minute.