Virtual Trade Shows

Posted by Bill Barrett in Planning, Tips, Trends

Virtual trade shows are quickly becoming the latest industry trend. But what exactly happens at a virtual trade show?

Reggie Lyons offers some insight into virtual trade shows in the article, “Considering Virtual Trade Shows?” Reggie states that “A virtual trade show is an online environment where users enter an online exhibition hall and connect with other users on the Internet.” Incorporating live chats and video streams enables attendees to learn about your products through interaction. Virtual trade shows are a cost effective alternative to attending trade shows that have a questionable ROI. The remote capabilities of virtual trade shows provide exhibitors with the opportunity to reach a much wider audience than a typical trade show. However, virtual trade shows do not provide the one-to-one customer touch points that traditional trade shows offer. Depending on your global marketing goals and objectives, virtual trade shows might be a good option to add to your trade show mix.

Reggie recommends that you attend a virtual trade show before you exhibit at one so you have the opportunity to learn about virtual trade shows before you decide to exhibit at one. Be sure to ask questions as well as recommendations for good virtual trade shows. Do your homework and give virtual trade shows a try.

Read more about virtual trade shows in an excerpt from the article.

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If you plan on adding a virtual event to your show schedule, as always, do your homework.  Attend an industry-related virtual event yourself to get a feel for the interactions.  Reach out to industry people that you trust that can recommend a good virtual event developer who can provide a booth preview.  Ask questions about the set up and design costs involved.  As you would with a traditional trade show, find out about booth location and potential sponsorship opportunities to give yourself the best exposure.

Virtual has its rightful place in our industry and its reach is undeniable.  But, you can’t deny the power and impact of one-to-one human interaction either!

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Read the full article.