People come to tradeshows and conferences to network and to learn. They also come for a more tangible, personal connection to a brand – something you just can’t get online. Forbes magazine notes that the allure of tradeshows persists because “people, relationships and first-hand impressions matter.” Help your brand story shine in a bold new way and pull in the tradeshow heroes: your booth guests! Make your tradeshow booth the best it can be, with some new thinking we’ve assembled for your consideration.
Make your booth a must-see
1. Quiz show.
No one liked a pop quiz at school, but asking relevant questions in an interactive format can effectively grab attention.
- Bold graphics
- Hands-on quiz users have to click through and learn about
Gets people engaged in a hands-on way, so they form a positive impression of you.
2. Video simplicity.
Make sure your videos tell an important story. No one wants to watch an overstuffed video that drones on and on.
- A 20 – 30 second microvideo
- Clean, crisp copy
Tells your story in a moment of time – more engaging than longer videos.
3. Interactive wall with a human connection.
Make sure that visitors spend time with the wall – but have the wall connect them to the human participants as well.
- Large-form look
- Visitors can touch and play
- Representatives on hand to answer questions
People get to live your message. That way, they will be inspired to share about you.
4. Booth layout is very important.
It needs to feel open and spacious. Let people interact with you in an uncommitted way.
- At least one wall has to be open.
- Don’t give your space a cave-like feel.
Psychology says that people like to have an out. Make them feel chill in your space.
5. Push notifications.
Not only does your booth have to be cool: you have to alert people to your booth and get them to stop by.
- Work via mobile apps
- Gamify (treasure hunt)?
Become embedded in their daily phone activity and they will come to you… to claim a prize or just say hello.
6. Use bright, attractive signage.
Think “Times Square” big. Coca-Cola, anyone?
- Big, simple imagery rules right now. Convey your brand in an image. Two. Three, at most.
When your copy and design are clean and simple, people are drawn to you.
A great tradeshow booth can mean the difference between visitors who engage with your messaging – and those who just smile as they walk by.
