The new year always brings around a variety of exhibitions, trade shows and events, and with that comes planning. Whether you are exhibiting yourself or just visiting, these events require forward thinking with appointments and transport arrangements to be made, planning your time to make the most of the event, and of course considering what promotional items to give away to potential clients that you speak to.
We will be attending our fair share of trade shows ourselves so here are some of our top tips and choices for promotional items to give away…
To make the most of your exhibition experience, you should know why you are going and what you need to come away with at the end of the day. Do you want to scout out potential new suppliers? Seek advice from local businesses on working within the community? Make connections with potential customers? Or do you simply want to expand your network within your industry? Whatever it is you need, seek out those that you know are relevant to your business and who can help you best. Make appointments and plan out your day to ensure you get to speak to all the right people. Take a branded notebook or journal to keep track of everything, jot things down and enhance your branding on the day.
Don’t forget to take business cards with you, and collect them from the people you speak to. This is essential for getting in touch after the exhibition, and following up on anything discussed. You never know who might be important for your business in the future – or who you might be useful to – so being organised with business cards is key! It’s always handy to keep these in one place, and what better way to advertise your company than with branded card cases for your colleagues to take with them to trade shows?
If you’re exhibiting at a trade show, giving away promotional items can provide great exposure and keep your business in potential clients minds for days, weeks, months… even years! You could go for the classic pen or branded keyring – which people will use and look at daily – or something more substantial such as a mug or shopper bag, which will last for a very long time and are truly useful products. Whatever you go for, choose something that reinforces your brand colours and message, and will catch the attention of the recipient.
Lastly, don’t forget to wear comfy shoes and take snacks as it’s likely to be a long day. Bring your smile along too! Being friendly and approachable can go a long way at these events, so put on your best cheesy grin and get chatting!
Gilt Edged can brand a wide range of products suitable for exhibitions and trade shows, from bags and folders for your employees, to giveaway promotional items. Get in touch today to discuss your needs by calling 01604 671671 or emailing sales@giltedged.co.uk
We hope to speak with you soon… whether that is on the phone or at a trade show!
