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Feeling like a trade show rookie? Planning your exhibit presence and the logistics involved can feel overwhelming. But the reward of bringing your brand to life at a trade show is creating a branded destination to connect face-to-face with customers and prospects.
If you’re ready to go (trade show) pro, use our handy checklist of priorities and helpful tips to conquer your first exhibition.
This starter kit breaks down the key tasks before, during, and after the show to make the most of your investment.
TIP: The official service contractor is the show management’s partner and exclusive provider of rigging, furniture rental, signage, labor, carpet, displays, transportation, and material handling. In some cases, official service contractors also provide audiovisual, electrical, and utilities.
TIP: When earmarking funds for booth space, travel, shipping, etc., remember to budget for smaller yet important items such as graphic design, promotion, and other miscellaneous needs that could arise on-site.
TIP: Shipping to the advance warehouse up to 30 days before exhibitor move-in can save costs. Choosing advance shipments also ensures packages arrive in time for move-in.
TIP: Before containers are taken to storage, remove every item needed for the show because you won’t have access to them during the event.
TIP: Before the event, create a post-show email that’s ready to send once the show closes — thank visitors for stopping by, recap key messages, and include a clear and enticing call-to-action.
With all the new terminology, paperwork, and advance work required, you can feel adrift in the trade show planning process. But navigating the steps with a little insider guidance will prepare you to generate more leads, build bigger buzz, and deliver better results for your first exhibit adventure.
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Apply these takeaways to your next event