Step 1: Pre-Show Hype

Building momentum before the event increases booth traffic. Proven tactics include:

• Personal outreach: Call or email registrants with booth invitations.
• Creative direct mail: Send giveaways with notes or use a fun hack, like mailing an empty box and asking visitors to bring it to your booth to get it filled.
• Digital promotion: Share booth details on your website and social media channels.

Pre-show marketing sets the tone and ensures attendees know where to find you.

Step 2: On-Show Action

Your booth should be a destination. To maximize impact:

• Interactive experiences: Host live demos, AV presentations, or food tastings.
• Memorable activities: Use games, entertainment, or contests to create buzz.
• Professional staffing: A friendly, knowledgeable team is your greatest asset for turning visitors into leads.

The goal is to make your booth unforgettable while reinforcing your brand message.

Step 3: Post-Show Follow-Up

The real value of trade shows comes after the event. Strong follow-up ensures leads become clients:

• Personalized communication: Send handwritten notes or info packets within a week.
• Top-lead priority: Call high-value prospects to strengthen relationships.
• Consistent touchpoints: Keep prospects engaged with helpful resources and timely check-ins.

Checklist: Trade Show Marketing Essentials

• Build pre-show buzz with outreach and online promotion
• Use creative giveaways to drive booth traffic
• Host interactive activities during the show
• Staff your booth with trained, energetic team members
• Follow up within one week with personalized messages
• Call top leads directly for maximum impact

Why It Matters

Trade show marketing isn’t just about flashy displays. Every step—from pre-show planning to follow-up—signals your dedication to quality and service. As Absolute Exhibits has seen with clients, exhibitors who prepare strategically and focus on engagement consistently achieve stronger results and higher ROI than those who rely on the booth alone.