Trade Show Checklist

 Creating a comprehensive trade show checklist can help ensure that your company is well-prepared for the event. Here's a suggested checklist broken down into categories:

Pre-Event Planning:

1. Set Objectives:Define clear goals that can be measured for the trade show (e.g., generate leads, build brand awareness, network).

2. Budget Allocation:Determine budget for booth rental, promotional materials, travel expenses, etc.

3. Choose the Right Trade Show: This is a no-brainer but ensure the event aligns with your target audience and industry.

4. Booth Selection and Design: Reserve booth space and design booth layout, graphics, and signage.Sometimes being the booth next to the bathrroms isn't such a bad thing, but might be better to be next to the coffee bar.

5. Staffing: Determine who will represent the company at the event and schedule shifts.

6. Promotional Materials: Order and design promotional materials (brochures, business cards, giveaways).

Booth Setup:

1. Booth Components: Ensure you have all necessary booth components (tables, chairs, displays, lighting, etc.).

2. Technology Setup: Check electrical requirements for equipment (computers, screens, etc.) and ensure Wi-Fi access.

3. Branding: Display company logo, banners, and signage prominently.

4. Demo Stations: Set up product demonstration areas if applicable.

5. Giveaway Setup: Arrange promotional giveaways and ensure they are easily accessible. We always tell our customers to make sure it's something people will use. Pens are great but you're logoed pen will be thrown in a bag with 50 other pens. Depending on your budget, make it a multi-color pen, or one with a light, you want to stand out. 

Marketing and Promotion:

1. Pre-Show Promotion: Promote your participation on social media, through email campaigns, and on your website.

2. Press Releases: Prepare press releases or announcements about your participation.

3. Networking: Schedule meetings with potential clients, partners, or leads.

4. Event-Specific Materials: Prepare any special offers or promotions exclusive to the trade show.

5. Lead Capture: Set up lead capture tools such as QR codes, lead forms, or scanners.

During the Event:

1. Staff Briefing: Review goals, talking points, and expectations with booth staff.

2. Engagement Strategy: Train staff on engaging with attendees and conducting demos or presentations.

3. Lead Management: Establish a system for collecting and managing leads effectively.

4. Networking: Actively network with other exhibitors and attendees.

5. Social Media Updates: Post updates and photos from the event on social media platforms.

Post-Event Follow-Up:

1. Lead Follow-Up: Follow up with leads promptly after the event. Asimple "Thanks for stopping by" email will do tons of good.

2. Evaluation: Debrief with the team to discuss what worked well and areas for improvement.

3. ROI Analysis: Evaluate the success of the event based on ROI and achievement of objectives.

4.Thank You Notes: Send thank you notes to attendees, leads, and partners you connected with.

Miscellaneous:

1. Emergency Kit: Pack essentials like scissors, tape, pens, paper, first aid kit, etc.But above all...Duct Tape!

2. Snacks and Water: Keep snacks and water for booth staff to stay energized, save the beer for after the show.

3. Comfort Items: Comfortable shoes, extra clothing layers, and any other items to ensure booth staff are comfortable throughout the event. No sweatpants.

Customize this checklist based on your specific needs and the requirements of the trade show you're attending. Additionally, consider creating a timeline to ensure tasks are completed on schedule leading up to the event.