Originally Posted by Sue

Will you be exhibiting at Harrogate?

If you are I'll try to pop and see you

No I won't Im afraid. Am just edging my way in slowly, will be going to the big ones next year though!

[Sue]

Originally Posted by Fill-Your-Pants

No I won't Im afraid. Am just edging my way in slowly, will be going to the big ones next year though!

From what one of my suppliers was saying last year it's a costly business exhibiting at one of these things so I don't blame you.

Hope it goes really well for you

Let us know how you got on.

[Fuzzy]

Originally Posted by Fill-Your-Pants

See above pet, as a seller

Doh, posted same time ....you got some Promotional stuff from Sarah on here?..........

Firstly make a list of all the things you hope to get from from the event. Think about sales, networking, partnerships, building up your mailing list, promotional literature, banners, pr etc. Once you have your list decide how you will achieve them.
Knowing exactly what you want to get from the event and then planning ahead is key.

Instead of posting samples to other attendees make sure your allow an hour or so to go round individually and give them out. This would be an ideal networking situation and its always nice to have face to face contact with prospective clients. Try to brand everything you give away.


Have:
Loads of business cards
Enquiry forms/pads of paper
Promo leaflets
Giveaways
Comfy shoes
Bottles of water
Mobile phone + charger


* Definitely use the delegate list ahead of the show to drive people to your stand. Maybe include a voucher for something free if they visit. At the very least they’ll become more familiar with your brand.

* Collect as many business cards/contact details as you can, but most importantly remember to contact all of them after the event - it sounds crazy, but many people invest in these events but neglect to follow up their leads!

* It may sound obvious, but make sure your stand is as visible as possible . Also, don’t be shy about standing in the aisles rather than hiding at the back of the stand.

* Often the first half an hour in the morning and last hour of each day will be very quiet. So long as you have someone else on your stand this is the best time to go around and network with the other exhibitors – they’ll probably welcome the fact that you’re making them look busy!

[Fuzzy]

Some useful stuff/advice on here too:

http://www.crowdmagnets.com/index.html

Thanks everyone

Im thinking Ill have some kind of competition to win a baby carrier, do you think Id be better off making it a competition with one baby related question, and the option to sign up for the mailing list when writing answer and contact details, or no question and to just put people in the draw when they sign up? What do you think would get a better response? Does that even make sense?

[Fuzzy]

Originally Posted by Fill-Your-Pants

Thanks everyone

Im thinking Ill have some kind of competition to win a baby carrier, do you think Id be better off making it a competition with one baby related question, and the option to sign up for the mailing list when writing answer and contact details, or no question and to just put people in the draw when they sign up? What do you think would get a better response? Does that even make sense?

I think the easier the competition the more responses, so just names and contact details on cards would be fine. Don't forget the competition rules though

[pvcprinting]

Laura,

Dont forget as part of your T&C to ensure you comply with any Data Protection Act....I think you have to quote that details will not be passed on without prior permission and also allow them the option to opt out of any further correspondence?

Am looking for the exact details as I type this

[Chiggs]

I've exhibited at both trade (did Harrogate nursery fair a couple of years ago) and 'public' fairs.

Agree with Bellamiller, it's good to treat 'selling to the public' fairs as an advertising opportunity, too. I handed out leaflets with a 10% discount code on to use on the website-I knew a sale had come from the show if they used the code.

Fairs can also be a good networking opportunity- in quiet times you can visit other stall holders and have a chat - I added a couple of new stockists at a 'sell to the public' show

Another question re: the fairs......

Presumabley I need to give out receipts with any purchases- but will these just have to be handwritten ones? Will that be ok?

[Shop-Window-Posters]

I think it would be worth while for your business. Data capture, good PR and some sales leads hopefully

We have had a few orders for exhibitors already