When you are attending a trade show as an exhibitor, there are a lot of things you need that you might not have thought of. We have complied a list of essentials for you to gather and a to-do list before you go.
First up, stating the obvious, remember your banners, hardware and marketing signage. Odds are, you probably have some table covers, floor graphics, kiosks or other trade show graphics to help show off your products and services. A great way to make sure that you haven’t forgotten anything is to draw a bird’s-eye view of your booth space and get a sense for where everything will be placed. Having this will not only get you more familiar with your space, but you’ll also be able to check items off the list when you’re packing everything up.
While you are busy worrying about the big stuff you need to bring, don’t forget the little things that will be crucial to your success. Be sure to stock up on pens, business cards, note pads, sticky notes, paper clips, rubber bands, staples or any other office supplies that you know will come in handy while you’re at the show. Consider if you’ll be handing anything out and what you’ll need to make that process go smoothly. You might even consider literature racks if you have brochures and fliers that you’re handing out. This will make it so people can gather information about your business if you are already speaking with someone else.
Next, you’ll want to consider your setup. An actual tool kit with a screw driver, hammer, pliers, etc. will typically come in handy and always provide for a much more efficient setup. The last thing you are going to want to be doing while you’re setting up is running around trying to track down a tool. Some other great items to have on hand, just in case, include velcro, tape (preferably tape that matches your banner stands and setup), baby wipes, box cutters… you see where we are going with this. Try to think of what your setup will consist of and the tools and accessories you can bring to help aid your process.
If your trade show display has any type of electronics involved, make sure you have all of your adapters. If you have certain equipment that is essential for your display, it is never a bad idea to have a backup if possible. Having a monitor or speaker go out in the middle of a show could be catastrophic. Extra extension cords are also never a bad idea. Just remember to tape them to the floor so that people are not tripping over your cords or damaging your equipment.
It is always handy to have a list of local vendors that are close to the convention center or your hotel in case you have any last minute needs or emergencies. Small and large format printers are great contacts to have as well as any specialty items that you can think of. Doing your research prior to the show will help ease your stress if something unexpected comes up before or during the show.
Last, but not least, don’t forget to take care of yourself and the team. A first aid kit is always a great thing to have on hand in case someone ends up getting a headache, sore throat from talking or encounters and unforeseen injury during the show. Throat lozenges, bandaids, aspirin, ibuprofen, and eye drops are all worthy attributes to a trade show first aid kit. While considering the health and well-being of the booth staff, make sure that you are stocked up with plenty of easily accessible water and power bars. As the show goes on, you’ll most likely end up getting shorter and less breaks than you had anticipated. Be sure to stay hydrated and nourished!
If you’re questioning whether or not you should bring something, it is better to be safe than sorry. Being over-prepared is a good strategy when it comes to preparing your trade show tool kit. Remember to always refresh your tool kit after the show so that there isn’t anything missing the next time.