If you are looking at attending a trade show or business event this summer, you have already likely been thinking about the impression you can make. When you attend events like this you are becoming a representative of your entire company, and this means that the way you come across is more important than ever. Here are some of the things you can do to make a great impression this year.
1. Be likable
Yes, it sounds easier than it is, but the thing you need to keep at the back of your mind throughout the whole day is that you want to be liked by your visitors. It is all well and good putting on a professional persona at events like this, but if the people you meet don’t like you as a person you will not get any business out of them. Therefore you need to think about being friendly, welcoming and make sure to smile!
2. Be unique
When it comes to creating your exhibiton stand and making an impression on our audience, you need to be unique. Think outside the regular stands and come up with something which is totally unique and which grabs the attention of everyone who passes you. You could create an illusion room, a life-size bathroom or something totally different. This will make a great first impression even before someone comes to speak to you.
3. Think back to good experiences
Take a moment to think back to the different interactions you have has in the past. Did any of them stand out to you as amazing? Take this idea and use it as inspiration for your own impression. You can use the good impressions of other people to inspire you in ways that you are able to give a good impression yourself.
4. Body language
You need to ensure that you pay attention to your body language when you speak to new people. Don’t cross your arms and look down, don’t slump, and make sure that you smile. The vibe you give off by crossing your arms is guarding and this can come across as closed off. If you want to make a good impression you are better off studying some good body language and making sure that you come across open and happy.
5. Flattery is key
Although you don’t want to come across as slimy, a few carefully placed compliments can make a huge difference to your conversation and the impression you give off. Flattery is great if you do it well and it will make the other person feel great about themselves and this can increase your bond with them right away.
6. Prepare
Practice your conversational techniques with other workers and with your friends are family. This will make a big difference to your overall confidence on the day and it will make everything much less stressful for you when you go into the event. It is always worth preparing and making sure that you are ready for the day.