SME Can Profit from Trade Shows during Economic Crisis
During this economic crisis, small businesses are wondering if it is practical to spend money on trade shows and consumer shows. Small business owners are wondering if they are good investments particularly since consumers today are thinking twice bout spending their money.
So should you or should you not attend
Despite the hard up times, attending or participating in exhibits or trade shows is one of best marketing tools small business owners should actually invest in. Why? Because these shows and exhibits are the cheapest way to put small businesses out in the larger market, learn about the latest trends and establishing networks of contacts, from suppliers to unexpected buyers. So despite the seemingly pricey investment, small business owners can actually utilize them for establishing long term profits. Moreover, since many corporate exhibitors are cutting back on expenses and are not participating, it opens great opportunities for small businesses to tap into the market that was once dominated by these large companies.
Spending Less, Earning More
For small businesses the main concern is how to participate in a show without spending too much. The first thing then is prospecting for the best show that offers the best returns. The way to do this is by reviewing past shows, inquiring if the attendees are buyers and by inquiring experiences of past attendees. It is advisable to seek other exhibitors and offer sharing of space. This will automatically cut the cost of the fee by half. In terms of display, buy from discount shops and purchase only used materials.
For businesses that offer services, ask if it is possible to take part in the program as a guest speaker. This will not only promote the company but there are even shows that pay for such speaking engagement. If that is not possible, walk around and introduce the services to buyers and the media.
So should you or should you not attend
Despite the hard up times, attending or participating in exhibits or trade shows is one of best marketing tools small business owners should actually invest in. Why? Because these shows and exhibits are the cheapest way to put small businesses out in the larger market, learn about the latest trends and establishing networks of contacts, from suppliers to unexpected buyers. So despite the seemingly pricey investment, small business owners can actually utilize them for establishing long term profits. Moreover, since many corporate exhibitors are cutting back on expenses and are not participating, it opens great opportunities for small businesses to tap into the market that was once dominated by these large companies.
Spending Less, Earning More
For small businesses the main concern is how to participate in a show without spending too much. The first thing then is prospecting for the best show that offers the best returns. The way to do this is by reviewing past shows, inquiring if the attendees are buyers and by inquiring experiences of past attendees. It is advisable to seek other exhibitors and offer sharing of space. This will automatically cut the cost of the fee by half. In terms of display, buy from discount shops and purchase only used materials.
For businesses that offer services, ask if it is possible to take part in the program as a guest speaker. This will not only promote the company but there are even shows that pay for such speaking engagement. If that is not possible, walk around and introduce the services to buyers and the media.
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