Strategy & Revenue Growth Consultant for Industrial Manufacturers | Veteran | Independent Director | Podcast Host
Episode 34 - Trade Show Strategies from Chris Dunn, an industry veteran Summary Ed Marsh and Chris Dunn, the VP of Sales and Business Development of BlueHive Exhibits discuss the trade show industry and the misconception that trade shows are dying. Chris emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interactions and the need for human connection and highlights common mistakes companies make when planning for trade shows. Chris shares insights on optimizing trade show outcomes, including using technology, experiential activations, and targeted messaging. They also discuss the challenges of lead collection and handoff and the changing behaviors of trade show attendees. Chris dives deep into the importance of creativity and differentiation and emphasizes the need for choreographed online experiences that engage virtual attendees as much as in-person participants. He also highlights the value of creating on-floor content and using trade shows as a platform for content creation. Chris touches on the use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in trade show displays and the importance of lighting and display design, as well as the integration of digital technology into trade show booths, such as QR codes and meeting scheduling links. Effective lead follow-up is critical to success. Chris concludes by encouraging companies to think creatively and take risks to stand out in the trade show industry. Takeaways - Trade shows are not dying; face-to-face interactions and human connection are still important in the digital age. - Technology, experiential activations, and targeted messaging can enhance the trade show experience and make companies more memorable. - Lead collection and handoff should be strategic and focused on capturing relevant information to facilitate effective follow-up. - Trade show attendees are more focused and selective, attending with specific goals and seeking solutions to their challenges. - Creating choreographed online experiences that engage virtual attendees is crucial for successful hybrid events. - Trade shows can be used as a platform for content creation, including on-floor content that can be shared during and after the event. - Lighting is often overlooked in display design, but it plays a significant role in attracting and engaging attendees. - Integrating digital technology into trade show booths, such as QR codes and meeting scheduling links, can enhance the attendee experience. - Effective lead follow-up is crucial for maximizing the value of trade show leads. - Bringing a diverse team to trade shows, including representatives from different departments, can provide a more comprehensive and engaging experience for attendees. - Creativity and differentiation are key to effective trade show strategies. Takeaway Quote from Chris Dunn "Most companies don't plan enough for trade shows." and much, much, more! Industrial Growth Institute Podcast #TradeShowStrategies #IndustrialTradeShows #TradeShowMarketing
Episode 34 - Chris Dunn on Trade Show Strategies in a Digital Buyer World
podbean.com
Chris Dunn
1mo
Thanks again for having me on the pod Ed! It has been a real blessing to reconnect with you after a bunch of years. I've enjoyed the synergies of our two worlds meeting, at the intersection of manufacturing and Events!
Chris Dunn
1mo
Brandon Lee … interestingly, Ed and I do a deep dive into shows and linked in… and how they are related and where that what the intersection of the two might look like. Pretty good synergies with where your focus is these days. And you got a good mention here as well!! 🤣
Helping Exhibitors and Marketers Create Buzz, Build Amazing Experiences and Drive Engagement | VP of Sales and Business Development | Builder of Trust | Ski bum, mediocre golfer, craft beer lover
1moEd and I recorded this podcast and I’m listening to it now that it’s fun to go back and I don’t give myself some grades around the talking points but also remember conversations. Shut up to our common friend Jon Selig who gets some pretty good play here! Also my old boss and mentor who got me into this business Don Woodard !!