Trade Show Scheduling

Why search all over the internet for what trade shows are going on and where?  Why not just come and visit us here and find out about some of the best trade shows going on?  You can find out where they are, when they are, and a little bit about each one.  Check back often as we’ll be updating regularly.

Handling Unruly People at Trade Shows

Trade shows generally have security guards on the payroll. That way undesirable people can’t get in, the expensive trade show booths are protected, and safety is assured. Except for the fact that most security guards at trade shows stay around the perimeters, watching from a distance. That doesn’t do you much good if you have trouble in your booth when a perimeter security guard isn’t looking. What do you do when someone gets out of control at a trade show?

First, stay calm. Focus on trying to diffuse the situation in a calm, safe, rational way. If the person you are dealing with is simply upset about something that has happened, try to get a trade show or venue employee over to handle the situation and address the person’s complaint. If all else fails, call security and have them handle it. All in all, if you or one of your staff members has done something to invoke the ire of a trade show attendee, you should try to handle it if the person is sane and rational, yet very upset. You shouldn’t involve security when you or one of your people has made a mistake and someone is reacting in a way that can be construed as normal.

When someone files off the handle, on the other end of the spectrum, and you fear for your safety, the safety of your staff, and the safety of the people around you, it is important that you call security over right away. If you can’t get security to come in time, you’d best call the police to assist. Trade shows are not different from other public venues in that you only have but so much control, and when help is needed it is up to you to ask for it.

Hiring Your Trade Show Staff

Many companies will outsource their trade show work not only in that they will have a company build their trade show booth, but they will also hire people to work their booth for them. This is usually either because the company is understaffed and too busy, or if the trade show is a high-profile event and the principals of the company are uncomfortable working with the public.
Some trade shows are high-profile in a different way – there are lots of trade show situations where a certain type of talent is appreciated and respected—in the form of physical beauty. Many companies will hire a model or two to work their exhibit, thinking that the pretty faces and skimpy clothes will draw in potential customers..

Other times, companies will hire a keynote speaker or representative from within the industry to represent them. This lends credibility to the company that hired this individual, and it makes the company look like a player in their field. A company must be careful, however, when hiring outside staff to work their trade show.

Anyone who is working the trade show on behalf of your company ought to at least be familiar with the basics. What your company does, who the main players are, and what incentives or offers are available to trade show attendees are some things that everyone working the booth should know.

Additionally, you should take care not to misrepresent your company to potential clients. Make your message clear, and make sure that your trade show graphics, booth, and staff are in line with your corporate identity, brand, and mission.