A distance learning trade show allows school district and college officials to view the latest in distance educational technology and supplies. Distance learning permits educators to include more students in learning activities. If your company provides distance learning equipment or services, educational and distance learning trade shows are an excellent way to market your business.

To find distance learning trade show information and a list of shows, consult a distance learning trade show directory. Remember that the shows are often grouped with other educational trade shows. Once you choose the shows to target, the hard work begins. To be a success at distance learning trade shows, keep the following things in mind:

1. Investigate booth or display equipment to show your product at a distance learning tradeshow.

2. If your equipment at a distance learning trade show is heavy or needs special set up, hire a service company.

3. Firms associated with distance learning trade shows offer an array of staffing services, from booth personnel to actors.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy or rent booth or display equipment to use at a distance learning tradeshow

There are several varieties of trade show exhibits, from portable models that are easy to install and easy to transport to large modular booths. Decide the type of exhibit equipment that fits your company's budget and products.

I recommend: The Godfrey Group offers trade show advice, including a 120-page trade show guide with the latest equipment and presentation techniques and suggestions for shows. Once your company has decided on a plan, check Search4vendor.com for suppliers of booths, displays and almost any other trade show service.

Hire a company to provide set up help and other distance learning trade show services

If your exhibit staff is small or inexperienced, consider hiring a company that specializes in trade show setup services. In addition to distance learning trade show advice, they will unpack your materials, make sure all the technology is connected and working, and repack and ship your materials at the end of the show.

I recommend: The folks with Trade Show Setup Service will help your company from start to finish, from unpacking and setting up your booth or display to packing and shipping. Read the testimonials at Trade Show Services to get a feel for the scope of services and their success.

Find the talent and professional presenters you need at distance learning tradeshows

You can find businesses that offer trained presenters, booth attendants and actors for trade shows. They will learn your marketing plan for the show and execute it. (In most case, you have to provide the costumes).

I recommend: Contact the Carambola Tradeshow Group for expertise in the educational tradeshow business. They've been in that market for 25 years and provide complete services, including a very helpful exhibitor manual. You can get help with marketing and staffing, including talent for special "characters" at Vollmer.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  A big part of distance learning trade shows focuses on technology. Be sure to secure the services of on-site IT help.