Many small business owners rely on trade shows to market their companies. Having a small booth at a large convention can make a world of difference for an independent entrepreneur who wants to break into new markets. In most cases, consumers from all over the country attend these events so small businesses can reach leads without expanding into a new area.
There are many features that entrepreneurs should have in their booths. A large sign, business cards and brochures can be extremely beneficial for forging relationships with potential clients. Additionally, promotional items are great tools for opening a dialog with attendees.
Who should receive a giveaway
A common misconception is that every consumer should receive a giveaway. Business owners believe that they can generate more leads by marketing to a large group of attendees. However, this isn’t always the case. The Trade Show Advisor notes that promotional marketing products should be hidden and unavailable to every passerby. The branded items should only be distributed to attendees who speak to a company’s employees. For instance, if a potential buyer asks a representative about pricing then a small gift can be given. People who are just walking by shouldn’t receive presents from a business.
Lead generation at a trade show is more about quality than quantity. Entrepreneurs who distribute giveaways to every attendee aren’t necessarily starting the strongest possible relationships. By limiting who receives a promotional item, a company is establishing a rapport with high-quality prospects who are likely to become loyal buyers down the road. This means that the branded products can result in a high return on investment. Ultimately, being selective with giveaways allows small business owners to find the best leads at every trade show.
Think about attendees
According to the Small Biz Bee, entrepreneurs should think about their customers when selecting unique promotional products. Before attending a trade show, small business owners should research their clients to determine what giveaways would be most effective for generating new leads. Choosing the right items can help ensure that attendees are interested in a company and help forge potential relationships. The news source also recommends conducting a survey to determine what products consumers like the most. A quick poll would allow entrepreneurs to understand what giveaways to bring to a convention. Additionally, this information can be used for other marketing campaigns to solidify a brand in the future.