Become a Trade Show Rock Star
Become a Trade Show Rock Star
Dear Ms. Marketing: I have been going to some of the trade shows but I don't really know how to talk to the sales people or even how to work the room. Do you have any advice on what to do?
First of all you have to work the room like a rock star. Remember the six point checklist for a party and or a trade show.
1. Who is going to be there? Check the list of vendors see if there is anyone you need to talk to about business. Also, check to see who will be speaking. Do you want to meet and talk to the speaker? Talk to your peers to see if they know of anyone who is coming that you want to meet.
2. When should you arrive? Are your friends coming in early? Check with the schedule to see if you want to wait for friends or arrive early and take care of business. If it is more social for you, you may want to leave your departure time open.
3. What should I take with me? A rock star will be all about him or her so they would bring more personal items. You will still need some of these items, breath mints, comb, brush, lipstick and lots of business cards. You may just want a business card with just your name and a phone number. This is sure to keep them guessing.
4. Why is the meeting being put on? Is it a trade show, business meeting, a cocktail party. Rock stars always know about the why. It may be unlined, but when you talk up the event and talk about what it was like last year or the year before, you become the one that the host wants back year after year. When you support the real why of the event you become the rock star.
5. Where is the collective mind? Will there be dentist at the trade show? If you can find out any information about the attendees and come prepared for any questions or information about the attendees you will once again be the rock star.
6. How am I going to follow up after the meeting? Now for the grand finale. You have talked to people collected business cards and even said, "We should stay in touch." This good intention seldom happens. So here is what I do, I gather all of my cards and put them in order to which I really want to stay in touch. From there I call or send e-mails and really do follow up. Remember you have spent time and money to get these good contacts so don't just throw them out or not act on them. You may never know what kind of friend or business contact you have in those cards.
I hope I have help with your trade show question. Go out there and be a rock star.
If you have questions for Ms. Marketing you can reach me at Dena@TheLab2000.com.
