Being a trade show success takes more than just setting up your booth, collecting business cards, and handing out freebies. To get the most targeted traffic at trade show displays, having a proper marketing campaign is essential. Promoting the booth before, during, and after the event is important because this is what brings awareness to your audience about your presence at the trade show. So, what is the best way to do this? I have narrowed down the top 5 things you could do that are cost-effective and will draw in more traffic.

1.       Social Media

Most people can be found on their Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn accounts on a daily basis. This is why connecting with your audience using these websites can help get the attention of thousands of people who originally didn’t have any intention on going to the trade show. Use hashtags related to the expo on Twitter in order to get the attention of those who are not fans or followers … yet.

2.       Email

This method is not my favorite because, unless you are really close to your customers, there’s a good chance your email will get overlooked, deleted, or put directly into their spam folder. Use a subject line that will clearly tell email recipients what it’s about and why they should take a look at it. If they could win a prize or discount at your display system, let them know by working that into the subject line.

3.       E-Newsletter

Send out e-newsletters to all of your subscribers with information about your booth. Let them know your booth number, where it will be located, and why they should choose your exhibit over that of your competitors. Also, don’t forget to let your audience know of the date and time the event will take place.

4.       Mobile Apps

These days, you will find most people surfing the web, looking at their social media, or checking emails on their smart phones. Many trade show organizers have created mobile apps that will allow attendees to check out trade show schedules, a map of the floor, and other show information. Ask these organizers about advertising or sponsorship opportunities in these apps.

5.       Website

Put a link to the show’s website on your site in order to make it easy for your audience to get more information about the show and to add you to the list of exhibitors they plan on visiting at the event. If you have a blog, writing about the show will also bring awareness to your booth.

Whatever method you plan on using, give yourself plenty of time to promote your show booth. This will give your customers a chance to pencil your booth into their schedules. Also, consider having a free gift at your display in order to get more people to stop by.