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October 2014

Where'd You Get That?

October 14, 2014
There was once a Southern Christmas Show exhibitor who made wooden holiday-themed yard signs. They were attractive and reasonably priced, but in reality not any nicer than hundreds of other items available at the show. And yet,  they sold a ton of them.
The reason? Because they were tall and did not fit in a bag, everyone saw them as they were being carried around by show guests. Every time one was sold, it became a walking billboard, with the happy buyer telling all who asked where they could buy one. In fact, the exhibitor told me that if early morning sales did not start off strong, he would just give signs away to generate awareness.
A&J Designs is another company that figured this out. As you can see in the photograph, he places his birdhouses in clear plastic bags so everyone can see his product.
David J Zimmerman
Southern Shows Inc.
Selling   


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Stand Up and be Recognized

October 28, 2014

Being approachable is a key ingredient to success at shows. That involves how you’re dressed, not being distracted by your cell phone or other staff members, and especially your body language.

One key factor on your ‘approachable’ list is to be standing. Why? Because you’re on eye-level with show guests as they walk by. And, since most people are nice, if they see you comfortably sitting in a chair, they don’t want to disturb you.

I know – the thought of standing for hours in an exhibit is not a pleasant one. And – at a certain point your unpleasant demeanor caused by aching feet will be worse than the disadvantage of sitting down. So here are some tips:
1. If your exhibit has carpet, put carpet padding under it.
2. Spend some money on comfortable and supportive shoes – tips at this link: SHOES
3. If you absolutely must sit down, get a high stool or director’s chair. You’re still on eye-level, and it’s a lot easier to get off a stool than out of a chair.


David J Zimmerman
Southern Shows Inc.

Selling   


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