Five People You’ll Meet at Every Trade Show

Posted by Cat Virca in Tips, Trends

As an event exhibitor, one of your main goals is to generate leads. Trade shows are unique business opportunities that give you access to countless potential buyers. Blogger Kristie Jones-Damalas describes the people you’re likely to encounter in her article, “The 5 Types of People You’ll Meet At A Trade Show.”

1. The Tire Kicker. This is the type of person who goes out and test-drives cars for fun. Tire kickers typically stop by your booth out of curiosity or to kill time during the show. These people may be drawn in by your booth’s appearance, but they don’t have any actual interest in your company. They will likely walk leisurely through your exhibit and wander out just as quickly.
2. The Trick-Or-Treater. This trade show attendee is only here for the free stuff. Trick-or-treaters are on the hunt for giveaways and promotional items. They may stay long enough to chat and listen to you pitch your product, but they aren’t serious about your business.
3. The Information Gatherer. The information gatherer’s goal is to collect data. He or she is on a mission to find the best product at the most competitive price. They will be highly engaging and ask detailed questions about facts, figures and price points.
4. The Competitor. Competitors will casually stroll up to your exhibit and attempt to look unimpressed. They may ask specific questions about your company that you wouldn’t expect from an ordinary customer, such as pricing or production costs. You might even see them at their own booth later on in the day.
5. The Serious Buyer. This person is your favorite kind of visitor because they want to buy your product. The Serious Buyer knows his or her objectives and addresses the elements of the “BANT” concept: budget, authority, need, and time. They will take initiative and be upfront with their follow up plans.

Read the full article.