Trade shows and conferences can become a blur of booths after a while. After hours on a show floor, attendees will be looking for something to catch their eye and draw them in. There are a few little tricks that will help you increase traffic.
Be open
The first thing people will respond to is the person manning your booth. This person needs to be open, friendly and approachable. This means smiling with lots of eye contact, not stuck behind a desk playing on their phone. Stand toward the edge of the booth to greet attendees and show them you’re interested in having a conversation.
Create an experience
People are looking to be entertained by interactive booth experiences. This doesn’t mean you need a big song and dance number; it can be as simple as filling out a survey or spinning a wheel to win a prize, or testing out a new product. Photo booths or quick competitive games (like a putting green or ball toss) are also big winners. Attendees will remember your booth because of the experience had there.
iStock: Zephyr18
Keep it clean
You’d think that all the bells, whistles and flashing lights would draw attention, and it might; but it may also scare people off. Stick with a set colour palette and don’t overcrowd or overcomplicate your space.
Offer a place to sit
Comfy chairs make it easier to have an intimate discussion, particularly when people have been on their feet all day. A seating area can be a welcome rest, plus it automatically increases the length of your conversation. Again, only bring in chairs if you have enough space.
Provide a charge
Want someone to come in for more than a few seconds? Set up a phone charging station. People are on their phones all day while walking the floor and may need some juice. As they charge, you can chat.
iStock: Koh Sze Kiat
Promote on social media
Pre-show, promote your booth on your social platforms. During the show, run a selfie contest or create a hashtag to be used by your attendees. Creating a little buzz around your booth never hurt anyone.
Serve some snacks
We are all suckers for free food, admit it. Have treats on hand or bottled water. People will make a point to stop in and you’ll get some of that much-needed face-to-face time.
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