200 - 12 Reasons Why Trade Shows are the BEST Marketing Tool

200 - 12 Reasons Why Trade Shows are the BEST Marketing Tool

Author: Jim Cermak February 20, 2023 Duration: 16:57

If you are not convinced, then please reach out to me!

1.    Connect with & qualify more of your target audience quickly

  • If you’re at the right show!  Only be at shows where your target audience is.
  • Video training

2.    Talk to the same Buyers and Decision Makers as the Big Guys

a.     If you’re a small player in an industry that has some giants, the people who are there to see the giants are walking right past your booth!

b.    And if some major retailers are going to be there walking the show, you may have your best opportunity to get their attention! 

3.    Get into deep meaningful conversations

  • Conversations that lead to appointments and sales!  With target audience and others as well.

4.    Effectively share your story – in multiple ways!  Through sights, sounds, takeaways, and giveaways, QR code

5.    Do up-close competitive research – if you’re there, your competitors probably are too.  Get over to their booth, take pics, grab literature, and look over what they are displaying.  And hey – introduce yourself!  Become a friendly competitor!  Never know where opportunities come from.

6.    Find prospective new vendors and suppliers – Most businesses miss this opportunity. While you’re there, why not see who else is there that can meet your business needs.

7.    Have conversations with Industry Leaders – associations, leading companies, researchers, and more

8.    Learn about Industry Trends – there is typically a breakout session talking about trends.  And if you don’t see one, find an industry leader to talk to about what is happening!  Don’t miss this!  Can help you craft your next product, service, or offer.

9.    Learn new skills to Improve Your Company – there are typically breakout sessions, seminars, and workshops.  And if you’re in an industry that needs CEU credits, may be able to find those as well.

10. Build deeper relationships through social opportunities – networking sessions, dinners, drinks, breakfasts, and more.  Go for a run!

11. Position your company as Experts and Thought Leaders – you know those breakout sessions?  Why not you or your company lead one of those? Get on Stage!! Check with show organizers as soon as you identify the show to see what opportunities are available!

a. Do this early!  As many shows close the window on this several months in advance.

12. Get Press and Media Coverage – last but certainly not least, there are industry journalists at every trade show – even at small ones.  And if you can get their attention by inviting them to your booth ahead of time, or scheduling a time to meet, you can get some amazing press!

a.     I have a fantastic episode that is a Master Class on how to do find the media at trade shows and get PR you can’t get any other way.  My friend Josh Weiss was featured back on episode 61 of TSU.  

Ok – now I hope you are convinced, and if I have your head shaking YES YES YES! Then don’t miss out and leave money on the table.  I help companies maximize their opportunities and ROI at shows by giving a fresh expert perspective.  Because you don’t know what you don’t...


Jim Cermak hosts Trade Show University for Virtual & Live Events, a deep and practical resource for anyone whose business depends on connecting with an audience, whether on a convention floor or through a screen. This isn't about vague inspiration; it's a working toolkit built from conversations with seasoned experts and Jim's own extensive experience. Each episode functions like a focused seminar, delivering actionable tips and training that exhibitors, marketers, and show planners can apply immediately to see a real difference in their engagement and return on investment. With a library spanning over 220 episodes, the podcast covers the full spectrum of modern event planning-from crafting a compelling virtual booth experience to mastering the logistics and psychology of a live trade show. You'll hear candid discussions on common pitfalls, innovative strategies that are working right now, and breakdowns of what truly moves the needle for businesses. Beyond the audio, the community around this podcast extends into consulting and collaborative training, emphasizing real-world application. For professionals tired of wasting time and budget on events that don't deliver, this series offers a clear path forward, turning every appearance into a measurable success.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Trade Show University for Virtual & Live Events
Podcast Episodes
PRO TIP - Send your New Employees to your next Trade Show [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:10
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229 - Behavior Change Design for Events - with Kristin Malek [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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228 - How AI will Improve Trade Shows & Events - with Kalon Welch [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:45
Should you be afraid of A.I. (Artificial Intelligence)? Will AI cost you your job? Will AI destroy the events industry? OR...can AI and AI tools be used to make our trade shows and events better than ever? My guest, Kalo…
227 - Creating Engaging Trade Show Booths - with Branden Cobb [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:59
What are attendees saying about your Trade Show Booth? Probably NOTHING!! Sorry, but it's true. Let's change that!Branden Cobb, a seasoned marketing professional has been instrumental in driving market share, fostering c…
226 - PRO TIP - Win the Show Before You Go! Fill Your Calendar [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:44
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224 - Powerful Goal Setting using The DEB Method - with Deb Eckerling [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:20
Goal Setting is one of the Top things you can do for success at your next trade show or event -- IF you do it right!! Excited for this week's guest to give us a fresh perspective with her own method.Goal strategist Debra…
223 - Finding & Deciding on Event Tech - with Merijn van Buuren [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:55
How do you find and decide on the best tech tools and platforms for your upcoming trade show or event? Listen in!While helping physical event professionals embrace virtual events during the pandemic, Merijn van Buuren re…
222 - PRO TIP 10 - Don't Pre-judge Attendees - all about Engagement [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:26
Trade Show PRO Tip #10 - Don't Pre-Judge AttendeesOne of the top things I see exhibitors doing which holds them back from reaching their potential, but really goes unnoticed, is they pre-judge the attendees walking past…
221 - Coaching Follow Up!  Results after the Show with The Groom's Man [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:22
In this episode, we are following up on our Exhibitor Coaching Session with Reginald Ferguson of The Groom's Man! If you missed that episode, you can Check out Episode #220 Here.Jim and Reginald discuss how The Groom's M…