1. Spend time checking out the trade show’s website. What companies are going to be there? Are there specific products you want to see?
  2. Register in advance.  Attend Breakfast of Champions.  Attend educational sessions.
  3. NETWORK NETWORK NETWORK – Stay at the host hotel associated with the event.  After the day’s events, attendees will meet in the lounge for a cocktail, be there!
  4. Make a plan. The worst way to go to a trade show is unprepared. You need a goal and objectives! Arrive early and get your hands on a map and show directory. I map out which booths I am going to hit and in what order, because trade shows are massive and I can’t afford to needlessly tire myself out. Start walking the floor as soon as possible. Once you’ve visited the companies on your list, feel free to walk the floor at your leisure.
  5. Dress the part. Business casual attire is recommended.
  6. Wear comfortable shoes.   Walking the floor will exhaust you.
  7. Always have business cards with you. Important contacts are everywhere–the lobby, the bar, or even the elevator.  You never know, so be prepared.
  8. Approaching a booth can be intimidating.  Be prepared with specific questions.   Don’t wait for a salesperson to engage you. Introduce yourself and let them know why their products are of interest to you and see if they can help.  If not, move on to the next stop on your list.
  9. Always make sure to get a card. It’s not enough to give someone your information. If you work a trade show hard, you should walk away with dozens of cards. That’s why networking, education, and trade shows are powerful.
  10. Follow up. Once you have someone’s card, you must follow up.  If you don’t, your efforts will be for nothing.

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