So you’ve decided to conduct a presentation in your 10-foot booth. Now you’re wondering how you’ll fit a stage, sound system and special lighting in a space the size of a large closet (and still have room for the audience)? Here are some practical setup guidelines:

1. Stage. You don’t need (or want) a raised stage in a 10- or 20-foot booth. A raised platform creates an imaginary “distance” between the presenter and the audience. Strive for a more intimate setting – appropriate to your small booth.

2. Sound system. In a 10-foot booth, the surrounding noise can be a big distraction. Your presenter must be amplified if you want to hold your audience’s attention. Your sound system should include a wired headset microphone. With a headset microphone, the presenter doesn’t have to worry about holding anything and it only picks up the presenter’s voice. Lapel microphones can “lose” sound when the presenter turns his or her head. A wired headset microphone won’t be affected by other wireless systems on the show floor. Finally, a wired microphone is more affordable than a wireless. Let’s face it, your presenter isn’t going anywhere in a 10-foot booth, so the wire won’t even be noticed. You will also need a speaker/amp combination which is a very basic sound system. The speaker should be as small as possible. Remember, you only need to project to the end of your booth. The cost for this type of sound system will vary, but the rental price should be no more than $350 per week.

3. Lighting. Nothing sets your presentation apart more easily and affordably than lighting. Yet, most small exhibitors forget this critical element. Consider a portable truss system to hang your lighting.

4. Multimedia. Today’s sophisticated audiences “want their MTV.” Use a combination of visually compelling graphics (they draw people from a distance and during breaks in the presentation) and multimedia. A 25-inch monitor will do the trick in a 10- or 20-foot booth.