Staffing Strategies for your Next Trade Show

Originally published by 4imprint

Days on the trade show floor can be long and tiring, and the monotony can cause some booth staffers to lose momentum and become disengaged. You’re likely no stranger to the correlation between employee engagement and your bottom line, especially when it comes to trade shows, but did you know increased employee engagement could mean mean 2.5 times more revenue?

If that sort of increase appeals to you—and we think it will—keep reading. This article will offer ideas on staffing strategies to keep your booth team alert, engaged and ready for action.

• Set goals: Setting goals and clarifying expectations help booth staff know what is expected of them. Outline the number of interactions, qualified sales leads and follow-up appointments they are expected to make. And consider rewarding those who meet or exceed these expectations. A swanky writing set or logo’d desk caddy is a nice way to recognize a job well done.

• Use mobile devices for good: Mobile devices make great trade-show tools—when their powers are used for good. Encourage staffers to engage with attendees using lead generation apps, product demo videos and other relevant features. On the flip side, prohibit device use for personal tasks, such as texting or social media (unless the posts are about the show). After all, staff members engaged with their smartphones are likely not engaging with your guests.
• Prevent burnout: Offering frequent breaks or the opportunity to work in shifts can keep staffers alert and on their toes. Also, maintaining adequate blood-sugar levels and staying hydrated can boost energy levels and moods. Consider giveaways, such as Bottled Water and trail mix, that will help prevent fatigue for booth staffers and visitors alike.

• Provide interactive games: Interactive games or activities keep staffers (and guests) entertained and engaged. Consider a card game, like poker or black jack. Reward winners with a discount coupon or deck of cards. Prize Drops and Prize Wheels are fun, interactive games that also keep your staffers on their A-game.

We hope we’ve provided a few ideas for staffing strategies to keep your trade show team alert and engaged. Give one or more a try at your next event—your bottom line is sure to notice the difference!