Tradeshow Survival Kit-Promotionally Yours

7 Must-Haves: Trade Show Survival Kit Posted: 06 Jan 2016 01:37 PM PST If you’re not in the promotional products industry, you may be unaware that next week is the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) Expo, one of the largest annual trade shows in the promotional products industry. Nearly every industry has trade shows, and if you’ve never attended one, you are surely missing out. The benefits of going depend on your industry, but they can range from being the first to know about new products, saving on purchases through show-only specials, attending classes taught by industry leaders, and mingling with / learning from your peers. As we finish our last-minute packing for the PPAI Expo, we wanted to provide you with a checklist for your next show. These are the things to remember to bring to the show if you’re an attendee (exhibiting is a completely different ball game). Before you leave for the show, remember to pack: 1.      A Plan – Utilize the show schedule, map, exhibitor listing or any other show materials available to create a plan of action. Knowing whom you need to see and what you want to accomplish long before you head to the show will ensure that you get things done. Today, many shows develop an exclusive app so you can always have your schedule and map in digital form, too. 2.     Tablet/Phone/Jotter/Chisel & Stone Slab – Always have a way to take notes, and remember to actually take them. There is far too much going on to keep it all straight; these notes will be a lifesaver back at the office. 3.      Camera and Sticky-Notes – Taking pictures of what’s new and awesome is always a great idea, but pictures without labels inevitably lead to questions such as “Who makes this?” or “What was special about that thing?” Placing sticky notes by products when you snap a photo will help you organize your thoughts after the show. Also, consider making a video at your favorite exhibits to share with colleagues and customers later. 4.     A Large, Comfortable Bag – Giveaways are almost guaranteed at any tradeshow. Bring a large, travel-friendly bag so you can bring home all the promotional literature and branded items your heart desires. Consider a backpack or something on wheels, but check the show floor guidelines first. Some shows have exclusions for the types of bags you can carry. 5.      Business Cards – You never know when a networking opportunity will present itself. Make sure you have a healthy supply of business cards to hand out. Even if a show offers badge-scanning technology to eliminate the need for piles of business cards, those scanners don’t always work. It’s good to have at least some cards on hand. Remember to be choosy about who you hand your card to or let scan your badge; too many scans can lead to unwanted email spam or catalogs in your mailbox. 6.     Access to Work – During the show, you will be generally unavailable, but consider bringing something you can work on while waiting in the airport or during downtime in the hotel room. Simply catching up on emails while you’re out of the office will make your return less stressful. 7.      Company Gear, Comfortable Shoes and a Smile – You should always wear your company uniform or colors when you attend a show, and comfortable shoes ensure all that walking don’t leave your feet aching. There is no better brand ambassador then a happy and energetic employee proudly wearing company gear. You’ll usually have a trade show badge, but a company nametag or embroidered shirt is a nice added touch, too. Encourage your employees or colleagues to wear the same color so your company representatives are easily recognized throughout the show. What’s on your trade show survival list?  Share your ideas in the comment section below.