Experts & Opinions

Jul 26, 2013
I think we can all agree that trade show communication (pre, during and post) is vital to increase booth traffic and lead generation.  So, how do you work to get that necessary trade show communication just right (or write, as the case may be)?  This is important whether you are developing the copy yourself or using the services of the professional writer, as you can use these tips for your own work or to review someone else’s work.  Get your thoughts in order.  You need to work on getting your thoughts down and organized.  When you are doing this, think of… more
Jul 26, 2013
Planning and executing a successful trade show isn't smoke and mirrors. People love attending trade shows, and vendors are excited to show their stuff and make new leads and connections. So, the basis for your show already is in place. All you have to do is set it up and market it smartly. Choose a Convenient Venue Small cities and towns may offer only a single venue suitable for a trade show. But if you're in a larger city, you'll want to select a venue that's easy for non-locals to find, and convenient for everyone to get to. Make sure it's accessible by tractor-… more
Jul 20, 2013
There is a very interesting tidal shift in the U.S tradeshow industry. It’s a well sailed ocean in Europe, but a new current here.  What’s the big splash? Cities investing in tradeshows. I am not talking about wooing shows to the city. I am talking about money on the table types of partnerships.  As we all know, the German Messe’s have long owned and operated tradeshows on behalf their cities.  In addition, they have branched out all over the world with excellent results. Messe Deusseldorf alone has events in 13 OTHER countries (now including the U.S.) than… more
Jul 20, 2013
Earlier this year, I wrote a surprisingly popular blog post called “44 Things A Booth Staffer Does.” Some readers were amazed at the wide range of skills and tasks booth staffers require, while other readers wanted to share with their naïve peers just how much staffers actually do. That led me to think about the job of your biggest booth staffer.  And I’m not talking about that body builder from sales, or the big cheese CEO.  I’m talking about your trade show booth. Trade show displays are multitasking marvels made of metal, wood, fabric and more.… more
Jul 13, 2013
Tradeshows are a great way to reconnect with your existing clients, while also reaching out to new customers. We all know that these events take a lot of planning and organization, but your hard work really pays off when you build your brand and expand your customer base. Tradeshows also can take a toll on the environment, though, as they are responsible for generating tons of waste. In fact, according to data from Smash Hit Displays, the tradeshow industry is second only to the construction industry in the amount of waste we create.  So what can we do? Here are five easy ways to reduce… more
Jul 13, 2013
Perhaps you are an exhibit marketer who has yet to send your first Tweet, write your first blog post, or record your first YouTube video.  Or maybe social media has already become a regular part of your trade show promotions.  Either way, what’s next? Whether you are a social media rookie, a digital native, or somewhere in between, there is a progression of tactics you can follow to expand your reach, influence, relationships, and results. Here are the seven levels of social media, for business to business marketers, and especially trade show marketers: Level 1:  … more
Jul 05, 2013
I recently attended the HITEC conference in Minneapolis, and I got to participate in the SCANVenger Hunt platform they had for attendees and exhibitors.  This was my first onsite gaming experience and something I really enjoyed and wanted to share with TSNN’s readers.  In speaking with Frank Wolfe, CAE, CEO of HFTP, this was HITEC’s first use of the game application at the show, and it was introduced after having seen it at another show, and Frank was impressed by the interactions brought on by the platform.  That got me thinking about the game platform and how it… more
Jun 28, 2013
Marketing-savvy consumer brands are already socially enabling their employees - not to mention customers and other stakeholders - as a way to increase their return on social. How can trade show professionals utilize decentralization to not only grow attendance, but to increase exhibitor participation, build buzz, strengthen loyalty, improve employee retention, enhance customer service and more? By using the following tips and best practices … 1. Utilize a hub and spoke social media model: Your marketing/public relations team (or agency) will still play a vital, albeit different,… more
Jun 22, 2013
Let’s talk knuckle busters, zip zaps, and scanners - because I speak your language. Event organizers, registration contractors and purveyors of lead recording hardware and software bandy about the term “lead retrieval.” But for the most part the people who actually use these systems - the trade show exhibitors - well, they do not. They haven’t heard the term. If someone called you up on the phone, trying to interest you in a “brougham,” would you know they were referring to an automobile? I sure wouldn't. In the credit card business, I manufacture… more
Jun 22, 2013
One of the best things about our industry is that we’re not limited by geography or cultural boundaries. Because each country has its own exhibiting style, rules and practices, it’s important to acquaint yourself and your team with the differences so you don’t go into this process blindly. During my career, I’ve had the opportunity to manage global brand activations for many clients, and I’ve developed practices that provide the best opportunity for success. Here are my top four that you need to know if you’re exhibiting internationally: 1. Understand… more
Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.