Attending a trade show is an excellent way to raise your company's profile in your industry. It exposes you to potential clients, investors, and peers that can offer you valuable advice as you build your business. Your presence at the event will also likely be broadcast through local and trade news media, so creating an outstanding impression is crucial to making the most of these events.

When you purchase space at a trade show, expo, or convention, not much will be provided for your organization besides floor space and perhaps a table and chairs. A common rookie mistake for businesses is to not invest in an impactful and inventive display. With a multitude of companies to visit, visitors usually only spend a few seconds glancing at a booth before deciding whether or not to approach.

Obviously, you want yours to be the one surrounded by people, so you can provide them with information about your company, products, or services. How can you accomplish this?

Components of a Dazzling Trade Show Booth

There are a few characteristics successful trade show booths have in common, including:

• A unique design. Well-designed trade show displays use size, color, and quality graphics to tell their company's story before a word leaves their representatives' mouths.

• Brand cohesion. Your banners, displays, table runner, or tablecloth should prominently feature your logo, business name, and slogan or tagline. Including your web address or a QR code makes it easy for visitors to find more information about your company during or after the event.

• Lighting. Not all exposition booths include lighting, which is exactly why you should factor it into your display. This will immediately draw attention to you and make your exhibit more visible.

• Dynamic features. Setting up product demonstrations or incorporating other captivating features into your display will draw more interest than a stationary exhibition.

• Promotional materials. Get creative when selecting promotional materials. From basic items like pens, water bottles, and cups to more substantial products like messenger bags and hoodies, "swag" is an effective way to create goodwill with your visitors and spread your name.

• Samples. If you have a large quantity of product you can afford to give away, don't hesitate to do so. Your recipients may become future customers or tell others about you.

As you prepare for your next trade show, don't forget to put as much ingenuity and skill into your exhibit as you do your company. If you accomplish this, you'll be sure to leave a lasting impression on everyone who passes your booth.