How Do I Get Into a Trade Show?

Posted on July 3, 2008
Filed Under Trade Shows

Judi asks:

“My husband and I are just getting started in the gift basket business, we would like to attend the trade show in Altanta. Are we allowed to attend seminars and the showroom if we’re not an actual business yet? Will we need credentials and what exactly are those? Do you have any helpful suggestions for us to make the best of our first tradeshow? Your books have been amazingly helpful. Thanks.”

AmericasMart Atlanta’s admission policy is listed here.

If you’re unable to present the seven credentials listed on the policy page, there is also a guest entrance option, which you’ll see by scrolling down the page.

Consider the guest pass charge an investment in your forthcoming business.

I paid the guess pass price when I first started in business and never looked back or considered the cost outlandish because I knew that when I stepped through the door, I’d find great products and supplies to build my firm.

Once you’re in, you are allowed to attend seminars (free or at cost) and visit showrooms.

If you must register as guests, here are some tips specifically for your badge.

1. Exhibitors will see your guest badge(s) and assume that you are not a buyer. In other words, some exhibitors may ignore you. That goes with the guest badge territory, so don’t be offended. Do what you’re there to do.

2. If your badge is within a plastic holder, place a business card in front of the guest badge so that exhibitors see a business card, which can get you better attention.

You’ll have to remove the business card from in front of the guest badge each time you enter a showroom floor so that security can see the actual badge.

3. Tell exhibitors whom you speak with that you’re in business, but your credentials haven’t yet arrived. I’m not telling you to fib. Isn’t what I just suggested you say true? And don’t say this as though you’re defending your guest status. Just say it in a matter-of-fact tone, and get back to talking about the merchandise.

If it wasn’t okay to be a guest, AmericasMart wouldn’t offer guest badges.

I hope you get to the show. After a full day of going in and out of buildings, showrooms, and temporary booths, wind down in the cash-and-carry section (jewelry and other baubles to buy for personal enjoyment).