Heading to NYC for Toy Fair...here is how I prepare for a show

As I get ready for my trip to NYC for Toy Fair this weekend, I am reminded of the many things I have to do before I head out. Granted, I am not exhibiting but walking the show…and spending a lot of time in
the booth of Brainy Baby who I represent their great products to the
specialty retailers in the USA. Trade shows are one of the best
opportunities to meet up with retail store buyers, the media, and other
people who can help propel your business. This is why being properly
prepared is so important. Here is some of what I do just a few days
prior to a trade show:

– Gather plenty of business cards, brochures, and other collateral materials. There is almost no excuse for not having great looking cards and brochures/sell sheets as they are the first thing someone may see
when they meet you. Make them look good and bring plenty of them.
– Pick out my wardrobe. Yes, I actually plan it all out! I always wear
either a suit or something dressy since you can almost never be
overdressed. Appearance matters…
– I pull up a map of the trade show floor online and create my plan of
attack. Instead of walking from one end to the other ten times a day I
seek out what companies I want to visit with and try to start at one
end of the hall and end up at the end of the day at the other. It is
easy to walk a few miles a day or more in a trade show and you may get
tired or worse cramped feet so plan out your route before you start
your day.
– Make appointments with anyone I can so I can be sure to get that
person’s direct attention – even if it is for only 15 minutes.
– I make sure that I have info on anyone I want to visit with and know
something about their business and the leaders of that business.
Looking like you did your homework goes a long way sometimes!

There are many little things you need to think about but being on time, being open minded, and walking the entire show floor are some ideals I try to live by. You just never know who you will meet at a
show and that one meeting can turn into a huge opportunity. Be
ready…and make it a great show!!

Jim

www.jimdebetta.com