The Sales Tradeshow Survival Guide
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Hey there, fellow sales warriors! After attending dozens of conferences expos and trade shows I have some stories for you.
Picture this: a whirlwind of booths, swag, and some seriously questionable dance moves at the after-parties. But amidst the chaos, one thing stood out like a beacon in the night: the highs and lows of salesmanship on the Expo floor.
Let's break it down, shall we? Here are some savvy tips to ensure you conquer your next trade show like a seasoned pro:
- Preparation
- Networking!
- Look your Best!
- Getting Attention!
- Sealing the Deal
- Socialize with a Purpose
- Just Because: You're Worth It!
Preparation: The Early Bird Gets the Deal

Alright, listen up! Before anything else, preparation is your secret sauce. Don't just stumble in on the day of the event like a lost tourist—get in the zone ahead of time. Arrive early, get comfy, maybe even do some recon on the competition while sipping that ridiculously expensive hotel coffee. Trust me, you'll be glad you did when you're sharp, focused, and poised to swoop in on those leads like a ninja!
Networking: Making Moves Before You Even Get There

Who says business can't be a bit like dating? Slide into those DMs—er, I mean, schedule those meetings before the show kicks off. Reach out to prospects, set up lunches, and cozy up to potential clients. It's not just about the free food (though that's a nice bonus)—it's about making meaningful connections that could lead to big wins.
Dress to Impress (Your Brand, That Is)

Sure, comfy shoes are a must (seriously, blisters are no joke), but don't forget to rock that branded gear. Show off your company pride and let everyone know you mean business. People are more likely to engage when they see you're part of the team and not just another booth lurker in khakis.
Getting Attention: From Swag to Swag-nificent

Let's talk tactics—how do you reel 'em in? Sure, swag is cool (who doesn't love a free pen?), but it's just the bait. Make eye contact, flash that winning smile, and for the love of commissions, don't be afraid to shout out a friendly greeting to passersby. You're not just selling a product, you're selling an experience—and that starts with engaging your audience.
Sealing the Deal: From Handshake to Contract

So, you've got their attention—now what? Time to work your magic. Remember names (yes, even if it's written on a badge), ask questions, and really listen. No one wants a hard sell right off the bat—build rapport, offer solutions, and when the time is right, don't be afraid to ask for that next meeting or even close the deal then and there. Confidence is key, my friends.
Party with a Purpose

Finally, don't overlook the power of those after-parties. Sure, they're a blast (trust me, I've seen things), but they're also prime time for networking. Shake hands, swap stories, and who knows? You might just meet your next big client—or at the very least, your new favorite karaoke partner.
General Survival Tips: Because You're Worth It

Remember to hydrate (water, not just the free beer), get enough sleep, and for the love of spreadsheets, eat a decent meal. You're not just surviving, you're thriving, and that takes energy.
And there you have it, folks—your crash course in conquering the Expo. So next time you're gearing up for a trade show, remember these tips, grab your comfiest shoes, and get ready to make waves. Because in sales, just like in life, it's not about just showing up—it's about showing out.
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Until next time, keep closing those deals and don't forget to have a little fun along the way. After all, that's what makes the best stories.
Catch you on the flip side!
If you'd like to learn even more trade show survival tips check out this video I made with Sales Feed a while back - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWcv0g87RkA&pp=ygUfdHJhZGUgc2hvdyBzdXJ2aXZhbCBndWlkZSBzYWxlcw%3D%3D