In America, trade shows are a great way to acquire interest in your company. Whether you sell products or provide some type of service, trade shows in the USA have helped many companies obtain a new customer base. Trade shows not only generate possible leads but also get your company publicity while allowing you to meet and check out your competitors to see what they are doing right and wrong. Even if you already have a large customer base, a trade show will allow you to roll out any new product or service in front of an audience of new potential customers.

Make a great first impression by preparing for your company's first American trade show prior to making a public appearance. There are a few simple steps to take first:

1. Gather America trade show information before signing up to make sure the show is right for your company.

2. Obtain supplies prior to the show.

3. Market before your company attends an American trade show.

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

Ensure that you sign up for the right American trade show

Prior to reserving a booth at a show in America, trade show information is crucial to obtain. One of the most important things to know about a trade show is whether it is the right one for your company to attend. If you own a home improvement store, you clearly do not want to sign up for a car trade show. A good rule of thumb to think about before signing up for a show is whether your competitors will be present. If not, there may be a reason. Just remember that before putting your name on the attendee list at the USA trade show, information about the event is key.

I recommend: Find possible trade shows to attend by visiting Tradeshow Week. Search trade shows easily by industry with EventsEye.

Acquire the necessary equipment before attending any American trade shows

Once you have checked out the list of participants of the show that you have chosen to attend and made sure it is the right one for you, it's time to purchase the proper supplies. Just to name a few, you will need a lightweight table or booth; a table cover, perhaps customized with your company logo; and marketing materials like brochures. You can typically find such products online from stores that specialize in America trade show services and supplies.

I recommend: Displays2Go sells myriad trade show supplies. Customize your exhibit with products from Extraordinary Show Productions.

Advertise your attendance prior to the American trade show

You want to ensure that as many people as possible come by your booth, including both old and new customers. To do this, post reminders about your show attendance on your website, send out press releases and email all current customers. Consider offering a special low price or free gift for those who stop by your booth.

I recommend: When it comes to doing business in America, trade show advice can be very helpful. Check out the Center for Exhibition Industry Research to find out what type of advertising and promotion tactics work for events. Hire an experienced company like Concept Marketing Group to write and distribute press releases before the show.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you are looking to save money when attending American trade shows, consider renting or borrowing equipment from a company or business partner. Trades are also an option, such as offering a service or product for a quality press release in return.