Choosing the Best Location for a Trade Show Booth

Have you ever left a trade show and wondered why you hardly attracted any leads?  Did you do something wrong?  Was your booth not attractive enough?  Did you not use effective signs?  Maybe the problem was the location where you setup your booth.

If you have previously worked a specific trade show, build upon your experience of that show and repeat your efforts when it is presented in the same exhibit hall again.  Were you satisfied with the amount of traffic and the number of quality leads?  If so, leave well enough alone and guard your secret diligently.  If your results were less than stellar, maybe it’s time to try a new strategy.

Look closely at the floor plan for the show.  This is probably available online.  Look for familiar companies and see where they position themselves.  Most shows have similar themed companies grouped together. You don’t want to set up too close to a competitor, but you also don’t want to isolate yourself and make it hard for visitors to find you.

Do not choose a space right at the entrance of the main hall.  You will receive a flood of traffic all at once that will overwhelm you and then everyone will pass on by.  When visitors have seen the rest of the show, they will be tired and probably have little time to stop and talk to you on the way out.  Do not choose a space that is close to restrooms or a food court.  Things like that have a tendency to distract people.  Do not choose a space in a side hall that is connected to the main hall by a door or hallway unless you just want some quiet time to reflect on your thoughts.

Take advantage of a space drawing for booth availability if it is provided and try to choose a booth   Choose the side that faces early morning traffic so that you attract the people who just rushed the entrance and then slowed down after passing the first few aisles to look around.  Use a company sign that is very specific in describing what your company offers.

that is close to the end of an aisle and near the front of the main hall, but at least two or three aisles away from the entrance.

Spend some time walking the show and take note of which companies have the largest crowd and how much time people spend at the booth.  It is a good idea to set up near them next time, but directly next to them.  You want to benefit from the large numbers of concentrated people, but you also don’t want your visitors noticing something interesting in a larger both and losing interest in you.  Pay attention to the companies who have annoying attractions or people in their booth.  Make a note of it and avoid setting up near them.  Annoying people usually don’t change their habits year after year and nothing is more aggravating than to have a talkative exhibitor from another company in your booth, distracting you while valuable potential customers size you up and then keep walking.  One last thing, if you are a small company and you transport your booth an set it up yourself, pay attention to the proximity of the loading area to your booth.  Being near the loading area can make a huge difference to you on the first and the last day of the show.

How to Get Through Airport Security Checkpoints Quickly

Seeing the airport security checkpoint is intimidating for those who don’t travel by air very often.  Long lines and frustrated travelers make the checkpoint seem like an unfriendly place.  Security screenings don’t have to be an overwhelming experience if you are prepared.

Visit the website for the airport where your flight will depart.  They should have a list of regulations for passengers.  These rules are subject to change, so don’t assume if you’ve flown before that you know what to do and what not to do.

Dress appropriately.  Don’t wear shirts with offensive messages or outfits that are too revealing.  Think comfort and simplicity.  Check all of your pockets before leaving for the trip and remove all metal objects and anything that could be considered dangerous or questionable.  Sandals or flip flops are great footwear for flights because they can be slipped on and off quickly and easily.  Carry a backpack or duffel bag and put your loose change, keys, mobile phone, and anything metal in your bag.  This will be your carry-on bag.  Make sure there is nothing dangerous in the bag.  Pack all liquids, toiletries, razors, etc. in the luggage that you check at the counter when you receive your boarding pass.  You don’t need any of those things on the plane, so why let them slow you down?  If you require medication during the flight, have all of the necessary information about the medicine with you and be sure the name on the bottle is your own.

Arrive at the airport least an hour and a half before your flight boards.  Be serious when passing through the security check point and pay attention to everything going on around you.  There will be plenty of time for jokes and horseplay once you get to the gate.  Watch the security agents for cues, respond when they talk to you, and follow all directions.  If they select you for additional screening, don’t get angry or ask why.  It’s a random procedure that is enforced in order to keep us all safe and it usually only takes an extra few minutes at most.  Be polite to everyone around you and speak in a normal voice.

Have your boarding pass and ID in your hand because it will be reviewed by several security agents as you advance through the check point.  Remove your sandals or flips flops and put them in a plastic bin.  Place your backpack or duffel bag in a separate plastic bin.  If you have a laptop computer, remove it from its carrying case and place it in a plastic bin.  All of these items should be placed on the moving belt.  Be sure to remove your belt if the belt buckle is prone to trigger the metal detectors.

If you are selected for extra screening or if someone traveling with you is, then watch each other’s belongings as you wait.  Following these simple tips will make passing airport security check points faster and easier and it will increase the chances of you making your flight if you’re in a hurry.

Tips

• Treat airport security agents with respect. They are there to protect you.

• Don't make jokes or act stupid while passing through security checkpoints, especially about anything related to the airport or the airplane! Security agents take your words and actions very seriously and may not let you through!