Exhibiting Tips

10 Tips to Maximize Your Exhibiting Experience

Compiled by TASBO, with assistance from AI resources

In today's public sector sales environment, engaging effectively with attendees at trade shows can be crucial for success. Whether you're presenting at a trade show, conference, or networking event, having a well-thought-out strategy can make all the difference. Below are ten essential tips to ensure you maximize your event engagement and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

1. Start Strong at our Sneak Preview Reception

  • The reception is your best chance to make an early impression—be present, approachable, and start conversations!
  • Ask open-ended questions to learn about attendees’ challenges before jumping into solutions.

2. Be Where the Attendees Are

  • Take advantage of meals and networking opportunities in the exhibit hall. Sit with attendees rather than other exhibitors.
  • Engage in breakout sessions and the Engagement Classroom to gain insights and connect beyond the booth.

3. Focus on Quality Over Quantity

  • A few meaningful conversations are better than dozens of quick interactions.
  • Take notes on who you meet—jot down key details to make follow-ups more personal.

4. Offer a Simple, Memorable Takeaway

  • If you’re handing out anything, make sure it’s relevant and useful—something attendees will actually keep.
  • A digital takeaway? Use a QR code for an exclusive resource, not just your website.

5. Be Mindful of Time

  • Know when attendees are engaged vs. when they need to move on.
  • If someone seems rushed, offer a way to follow up later instead of forcing a long pitch.

6. Leverage your Learning Session

  • If your company has a session, encourage booth visitors to attend. If not, listen in to others and use what you learn to spark new conversations. If you don't have a session this year, call for proposals for 2026 Engage in Grapevine opens in the spring.

7. Build Relationships, Not Just Leads

  • People remember genuine conversations more than a sales pitch. Focus on connections, and the business will follow.
  • Relationship-building is a very important step in the sales process. Do not skip it.

8. Plan Your Follow-Up Before You Leave

  • Before the event ends, review your contacts and categorize them: Hot Leads, Warm Connections, Future Prospects.
  • Draft a post-event email or LinkedIn message while details are fresh in your mind.

9. Capture Notes for Next Time

  • What worked? What didn’t? Make a quick list of adjustments for your next event while it’s fresh.
  • Did you hear common attendee concerns? Use those insights to tweak your messaging for future events.

10. Keep the Momentum Going

  • Don’t just follow up once—find ways to stay on their radar through valuable content, a webinar invite, or a friendly check-in.
  • If attendees missed your booth, let them know how they can still connect with you after the event.
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