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An Exhibitor Guide to Success

Whether you’re looking to make sales, increase brand awareness, collect leads, or simply position yourself as a leader in the diving, travel, and action water sports industry, exhibiting at DEMA Show is an advantageous and profitable endeavor. With thousands of qualified buyers planning their trip to Las Vegas this November, DEMA Show is your ultimate opportunity to shine!

If you're reading this, chances are you've already secured your exhibit space at DEMA Show, which means you're already on the path to success! Now it’s time to maximize your return on this investment by separating yourself from the competition. Whether this is your first time exhibiting or you’re a DEMA Show veteran, this guide offers practical tips and proven strategies to help you make the most of your trade show experience before, during, and even after the Show wraps.

Before DEMA Show

Essential Pre-Show Activities

As a DEMA Show exhibitor, you have the unique opportunity to introduce your brand and offerings to a captivated audience of buyers and professionals coming from all corners of the world. From booth design and promotional materials to staff training and engagement tactics, the tips below will help your brand shine brightly amidst the bustling energy at this premier event.

Set Clear Goals

Start by establishing clearly defined goals. This will help guide all your efforts, keep you on task, and allow you to allocate resources effectively at DEMA Show. Make your goals specific and measurable. Consider using SMART goals as a framework—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timeline-bound.

Create an Action Plan and Designate Roles

With your goals defined, it's time to dig deeper to decide how you'll achieve them. Who will be responsible for different parts of the equation? When will we start executing our plan? Where will we conduct our marketing and which channels should we use? Will we accept and schedule booth appointments, and if so, how will this look? Answering these questions will help you develop your DEMA Show marketing plan, which will not only guide your marketing budget but also help you select the most effective promotional tools to employ, including DEMA Show sponsorships, which provide immediate and lasting visibility and pave the way for engaging new customers and expanding your sales opportunities.

TIP: Leveraging sponsorships and other key opportunities like the Undersea Grand Prix during this phase ensures sustained brand visibility before, during, and after the event, further enhancing your reach and overall impact.

At this stage, you’ll also want to draft a timeline for executing your DEMA Show marketing plan and begin designating roles and responsibilities within your team. One of the first items on your timeline should be announcing your plans to exhibit at DEMA Show and promoting your presence to existing and potential customers.

TIP: This is also the ideal time to decide if you will set up a schedule for booth appointments. The last thing you want to do is tell attendees early on that you aren't taking appointments only to have them show up at your booth and ask if they have an appointment—or vice versa. This will lead to frustration and reflect poorly on your brand, which is the exact opposite of what you're coming to DEMA Show to accomplish. If you choose to accept booth appointments, confirm the meeting details (date, time, etc) with all parties (the person/people you're meeting with and your internal team) to ensure everyone is in the know. 

Determine Marketing Channels

While drafting your marketing plan, you likely considered the channels you'll use to promote your presence at DEMA Show, and the products or services you intend to feature. As you now dig deeper into the specifics, find out which channels your current and prospective customers are using most often and plan to target them there (essentially, meeting them where they are most likely to receive your communications). On a broad level, this includes email, social media, and websites, and it's a good idea to research further into the behaviors of your target market to ensure you aren't missing out on an easy opportunity. 

If your current marketing practices are working well, you'll want to maintain these efforts in the months leading up to DEMA Show. If they aren't working well, now is the time to analyze your efforts and explore ways to improve them. Regardless of which applies to you, this is a prime opportunity to build and strengthen your pipeline, as evidenced by the fact that the most successful exhibitors adopt a holistic approach that integrates internal marketing efforts and strategic DEMA Show activations.

TIP: As you consider the different DEMA Show opportunities, evaluate which will be the most effective for your business and allow you to reach a larger target audience with greater accuracy and ease (i.e., less effort, more results). While each item below is unique, they all include specific marketing activations for your brand.

  • Sponsorship Packages: In addition to the individual benefits that accompany each package, ALL DEMA Show sponsorships include core benefits—your logo featured on the DEMA Show website and linked to your website, your logo displayed in the Mobile App, in attendee emails, and through onsite signage, drawing extra attention to your brand 24/7 before, during, and even after the Show!
     
  • Exhibitor Show Specials: Everybody loves a deal—and if you’re planning on offering one, two, three, or more DEMA Show-only Specials, we will help you market it to attendees so they know exactly what you're offering and where to find you on the Show Floor!
     

  • New Product Showcase: Are you planning to launch a new product or service at DEMA Show? If so, this is an incredible opportunity to showcase it to the world! In addition to being featured in a stand-alone glass case on the Show Floor, you'll get extra attention through targeted attendee emails to help drive excitement and traffic to your booth. 
     

  • Resource Center Snapshot Sessions: As an exhibitor at DEMA Show, you have the unique opportunity to provide snapshot sessions for attendees. The call for papers is only available for a limited time—act now to secure a spot before it's too late!
     

  • Silent Auction: This is a great way to increase exposure for your brand while giving back to the industry. Auction items are displayed onsite, and bidding takes place during the first three days of DEMA Show. All proceeds go to DEMA’s disaster assistance program.
     

  • Author’s Corner: If you’ve authored a diving-related book that the industry needs to know about, this is an incredible and unique marketing opportunity!
     

In addition to the opportunities above, take advantage of DEMA Show resources available to you through the  Brand Center. Here, you'll find customizable templates and marketing assets to help you promote your presence to existing and potential customers and drive their excitement before the Show even starts!

Also be sure to follow DEMA Show on social media and stay engaged by sharing, commenting, and reposting content with your own unique spin. And don’t forget to step up your social media marketing! Create fun and exciting content leading up to DEMA Show by giving teasers of what you have planned for attendees or going behind the scenes as you prep your booth or swag.

Design Your Booth and Handle Logistics

To ensure a successful show, it’s important to have all your bases covered when it comes to booth logistics.

Booth Layout 

Will you rent, build, or re-use existing structures? When planning your booth, consider accessibility, visibility, and location on the show floor. To stand out from the crowd, you'll also want to make your booth visually appealing, aligned with your brand, inviting to attendees, and functional for visitors and staff alike.

Use attention-grabbing signage, banners, and lighting, and consider interactive displays, product demos, and multimedia presentations to capture the attention of passers-by and help visitors better understand your offerings before they even enter your booth. Organize your booth layout for easy flow and navigation, and if possible, create dedicated spaces for discussions, demos, and private meetings.

This is also a great time to review your goals and make sure you’re showcasing the right products/services while aligning with the wants and needs of your audience. When planning your booth, it's important to create an in-booth experience that not only captivates visitors but also keeps them engaged for more than a fleeting moment.

One foundational component that is often overlooked is signage. This essential component is the first impression attendees have of your booth when exploring the Show Floor. Signage should not only convey your brand's message and unique selling points but also the most basic identification information—your company name and logo. With all the photos being taken on the Show Floor, it's just one more way to make a lasting impression.

TIP: Review the Exhibitor Rules & Regulations to note specific booth design and setup regulations as early as possible.

Technology Setup

Ensure you have all the technical equipment you'll need, such as screens, projectors, and demo setups, and test them out well in advance to ensure they are functioning properly. If you need to order new items, do so early to avoid scrambling or overpaying for items at the last minute.

TIP: If you plan to schedule meetings in your booth, determine any technology you will need to ensure a seamless process for you, your team, and your guests.
 

Comfort

Keep the comfort of your staff and visitors in mind when planning your booth design. Create an inviting atmosphere that encourages engagement and fosters positive interactions.

  • Incorporate ample seating areas where attendees can relax, network, or engage in discussions.
  • Consider offering refreshments such as water, coffee, or light snacks to keep energy levels up and provide a welcoming touch.
  • Pay attention to the layout and flow of the booth to ensure ease of navigation and accessibility for all visitors.

Prioritizing comfort and hospitality in your booth design will enhance the overall experience and leave a lasting impression on visitors.
 

Order Booth Supplies and Services

Make note of DEMA Show’s official contractors and order any booth furnishings, equipment, or services needed by the deadline. Many suppliers offer discounted rates when orders are placed by a specific date so be sure to note these deadlines and order early to maximize savings.
 

Logistics and Shipping

Coordinate logistics like shipping your booth materials, product samples, and any onsite equipment you'll need. Confirm shipping requirements, and if possible, ship early to avoid unexpected delays. When planning, keep in mind that surprises do happen—you’ll want to have a backup plan at the ready in case of delays or damage.
 

Important Dates and Deadlines

Make a list of all important deadlines around DEMA Show and consider adding reminders to your calendar so nothing gets missed.

TIP: use our key dates and deadlines checklist in your Exhibitor Services Manual for a quick at-a-glance reference.
 

Review DEMA Show Policies

Review all DEMA Show policies and FAQs and keep a list of DEMA Show contacts to ensure you have essential event information and know who to contact when help is needed.
 

Create & Review Your Budget

When formulating your budget, remember to incorporate known expenses such as travel, exhibit space rentals, show services, marketing materials, giveaways, promotions, sponsorships, and other relevant costs. It's also a good idea to allocate additional funds for miscellaneous expenses that may arise on-site.
 

Make Travel Arrangements Early

Take advantage of the DEMA Show hotel block to ensure favorable rates and availability and book rooms early for anyone traveling with you to DEMA Show. The 2024 booking deadline is October 21, 2024, but rooms are subject to availability and may be sold out as we get closer to show dates. Book now to lock in rooms and savings.

If you're traveling to DEMA Show from outside the United States, be sure to check any travel requirements and plan early to prevent delays. For your convenience, we have specific resources to help get you to DEMA Show. NOTE: The time to receive a Visa or ESTA approval can be quite lengthy. We encourage you to contact us as soon as possible and start the application process well in advance to prevent delays.
 

Prepare Marketing and Promotions

Prepare Marketing Materials

Develop a range of marketing collateral, such as high-quality brochures, flyers, business cards, and other informative materials that showcase your products and services. Ensure these materials clearly reflect your brand identity and are readily available to booth visitors, whether in print or digital format, or a combination of both. 

 

Promote Your Presence at DEMA Show

To generate buzz ahead of DEMA Show and get attendees eager to visit your booth, implement a multi-channel promotional strategy to engage with existing customers and pique the curiosity of new prospects.

Use social media, email, website, SMS, and more to let your audience know you’ll be at DEMA Show and take advantage of our customizable DEMA Show assets and graphics to start spreading the word and building anticipation  Share teasers, event details, and sneak peeks of what you’ll be showcasing to help build anticipation.

Some strategies you may consider employing include:

  • Social Media Campaigns: Utilize platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X to announce your participation, share sneak peeks of what attendees can expect, and interact with potential visitors. Be sure to tag DEMA Show and use the DEMA Show hashtag #DEMAShow2024.

    • TIP: Did you know DEMA Show has a la carte social media sponsorships?? With a single post, you can reach tens of thousands PLUS get all the added sponsor benefits!
       

  • Email Marketing: Send targeted email campaigns to your customer base and prospects, highlighting your presence, announcing special promotions, and inviting people to visit your booth.

  • Website Updates: Keep website visitors informed of your plans to exhibit at DEMA Show by providing key details like your booth number, product highlights, and exclusive offers for attendees.
     

  • Press Releases: Issue press releases to industry publications and news outlets, announcing your participation, new products, or significant announcements for the event.
     

  • Collaborations: Partner with fellow exhibitors or industry influencers to mutually promote each other's presence and broaden your audience reach.
     

  • Content Marketing: Produce valuable content like blogs, videos, or infographics related to DEMA Show topics, positioning your company as a leader in the industry.
     

  • Attendee Engagement: Engage with interested attendees on social media and other channels, answering questions and providing compelling reasons to visit your booth.

 

Giveaways and Contests

Consider offering branded giveaways or hosting contests to attract visitors to your booth. Ensure these items align with your business and are useful to your target audience.

TIP: When you submit the information about your DEMA Show specials, we'll advertise it for FREE to all potential and confirmed attendees!

Prepare Your Team

Designate and Train Staff

Whether your team includes one person or fifty, everyone should understand their roles and responsibilities before arriving on-site. Assign specific roles, such as greeting, demoing, and lead capture, to ensure smooth booth operations. Your booth staff should be knowledgeable, approachable, and well-trained to answer questions, engage in conversations, and handle various attendee interactions professionally. Equip them with the product knowledge, effective communication skills, and friendly demeanor your brand embodies. 
 

Dress Code

Ensure booth staff is dressed appropriately and in alignment with your brand's image by reviewing the expected dress code with them well in advance of leaving for the Show. 
 

Elevator Pitch

Prepare a concise and compelling elevator pitch that clearly communicates what your company does and why it's valuable, and make sure all booth staff have an elevator pitch at the ready.
 

Pre-Show Meeting

Schedule a pre-show meeting with all booth staff and any company representatives who will be on-site or handling logistics. Review the Show schedule, priorities, and activations, and conduct any pre-show training to help set your team up for a fruitful experience.

Additional Planning Items

To amplify your preparation and prevent frantic last-minute efforts on-site, take some time to consider the following in your pre-show planning.

  • What is our post-show follow-up plan? Develop a plan for following up with leads after DEMA Show, sending thank-you notes, and nurturing potential customers who show interest on-site. Having this strategy in place beforehand will facilitate accurate data collection during DEMA Show.
     

  • How will we collect contact information? Decide on the system you will use to collect attendee contact information, such as a lead capture app or physical forms. This will help you follow up with potential leads after the Show.

    • TIP: Take advantage of our Lead Capture offerings to simplify the process and ensure you get all the important info in a snap.
       

  • Are there any important meetings we want to have? Reach out to potential clients, partners, or leads in advance to schedule meetings during DEMA Show. This ensures dedicated time for meaningful conversations.
     

  • Do we have backup supplies? Carry extra supplies like stationery, charging cables, and basic tools in case any unexpected needs arise.

The success of your DEMA Show participation largely depends on the effort you put into planning, execution, and engagement. With thoughtful preparation, you can achieve your goals and have fun at the same time!

During DEMA Show

Don't Skip These On-Site Activities

Once you’re on-site at DEMA Show, it’s time to put all your planning into action! Your activities and interactions are crucial for ensuring a smooth operation while making a lasting impression and achieving your goals. Below are some tips for maximizing your impact during the show.

Engage and Interact

Focus on Attendees

Greet visitors with a smile, initiate conversations, and be prepared to provide information about your products and services. Ask open-ended questions to understand their needs and tailor your responses accordingly. Above all else, put attendees' needs first. Practice active listening and offer solutions that align with their interests and challenges. Manage your time effectively by spending an appropriate amount of time with each attendee—don't monopolize their time, but also don't rush them.

TIP: Ever experienced how good it feels when someone gives you their undivided attention? While a trade show is a bustling environment with people constantly coming and going, the ability to provide this same level of service can do wonders. Amidst distractions and competing booths, dedicating your time and focus to each visitor creates a memorable experience for them, as it demonstrates your respect for their time and an interest in their needs, making them feel valued and appreciated.

Engaging with attendees is more than just initiating a conversation or answering a few questions—it involves sustained interaction and avoiding the temptation to abandon conversations when familiar faces pass by. While networking is crucial, maintaining focus on the attendee you're currently engaged with demonstrates professionalism and respect, and assures them that their questions and interests are your priority, fostering a deeper connection and trust.

Understandably, DEMA Show presents endless networking opportunities, but ensuring attendees feel acknowledged and heard should remain paramount. By balancing networking with attentive interaction, you can maximize your impact and leave a positive impression that extends far beyond the event itself.

Body Language

Maintain positive body language. Stand attentively, make eye contact, and avoid crossing your arms, which can appear closed-off.
 

Booth Etiquette

Avoid clustering with your colleagues. Give attendees space to enter and feel welcome. Avoid sitting down whenever possible or appearing disengaged. Stand near the aisle, ready to engage with passersby. Keep your booth (and yourself) tidy throughout the event. A clean and organized booth reflects professionalism.
 

Engaging Presentations

If you're giving presentations, workshops, or talks, keep them engaging, informative, and concise, and leave time for questions. Give ample time for the Q&A portion, as this is often the most captivating and lucrative part of the presentation, fostering deeper engagement and providing valuable insights for both the speaker and the audience.
 

Promotional Items

Use giveaways wisely, offering them after a meaningful conversation, as a thank-you for stopping by your booth, or as an incentive to drive traffic to your booth and keep them there longer.
 

Interactive Demos

If you're offering product demonstrations, involve attendees actively rather than simply presenting to them. Allow them to interact with the product and experience the benefits and features for themselves. Bear in mind that when individuals engage with a product or service firsthand, they are more likely to form an emotional connection that influences their decision-making process when considering a purchase.
 

Qualify and Collect Leads

Not everyone who visits your booth will be a potential lead. Ask qualifying questions to determine if there's a genuine interest and need for your offerings. Use the lead capture system you selected during your pre-show planning to gather attendee information and ensure you get accurate details for effective follow-up. Jot down key points from conversations, which will be helpful when following up after DEMA Show.
 

Technology Assistance

If you're using technology, make sure your booth staff is proficient in its use and can troubleshoot minor issues on the fly. This will allow you and your team to stay focused on what you came here to do.
 

Networking

Engage with attendees and fellow exhibitors! Establishing connections within the industry can lead to valuable partnerships, collaborations, and customers that can last long after DEMA Show wraps.
 

Stay Energized

Trade shows are exhilarating, but they can also be exhausting. Stay hydrated and stretch often, take breaks when needed, and try to sustain your enthusiasm throughout.
 

Have Fun

Savor the experience! Trade shows are incredible business opportunities but they’re also meant to be fun. Plus, enthusiasm is contagious and can attract more visitors to your booth. So, embrace the excitement and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way!
 

Capture Content

Curate Photo and Video Content

Capture photos and videos during the event and share them in real-time on social media and your website. This can help grow your audience during DEMA Show and extend the life of your participation long after it wraps. A few tips include:

  • Capture a Variety of Content: Consider showcasing behind-the-scenes footage, product demos, candid moments, interactions with attendees, and more. Be sure to highlight what makes your brand unique and sets you apart from competitors.
     
  • Be Authentic: Capture real moments and genuine interactions with attendees. Avoid overly scripted content and focus on showcasing the actual experiences and values your company offers.

Social Media Updates

Share updates about your experiences in real-time on social media using the event hashtag #DEMAShow2024, tagging DEMA Show, and tagging other relevant individuals or companies to widen your reach.

Always ask for consent before capturing photos or videos of attendees. Please respect their privacy and only use content with their permission.

 

Be Mindful of Your Brand / General Tips

  • Respect Competitors: Be respectful to neighboring exhibitors, even if they are competitors. Refrain from making negative comments and maintain a professional, courteous demeanor.
     

  • Problem Resolution: If issues arise, such as technical glitches or attendee concerns, address them promptly and professionally. Swift resolution demonstrates your commitment to customer satisfaction. 
     

  • Follow Your Plan: Stick to your pre-show plan but be flexible enough to adapt based on real-time feedback and attendee engagement.

DEMA Show is a prime opportunity to cultivate relationships and showcase your brand. Each interaction contributes to an attendees' overall perception of your company. Stay focused, attentive, and enthusiastic throughout the event to help ensure your brand leaves a lasting positive impression.

 

After DEMA Show

Critical Post-Show Exercises

The period after DEMA Show wraps is equally important as the event itself. It's the time when you'll strengthen relationships, follow up on leads, and evaluate your performance. Use the tips below to make the most of the post-show phase.

Follow Up

Organize and Nurture Leads

Sort and categorize the leads you collected based on their level of interest and potential to help you prioritize your follow-up efforts. Keep in mind that not all leads will be ready to buy immediately. Create a nurturing strategy that provides ongoing value and keeps your brand top of mind in the months that follow DEMA Show.
 

Set Next Steps

Clearly communicate the next steps in the sales process or engagement with your leads. This will help manage expectations and keep the momentum going.
 

Follow-Up Promptly

Within a few days after the event wraps, contact the leads you collected on-site. Send personalized follow-up emails or make calls to continue the conversation and address their wants and needs. This ensures your brand remains top of mind for attendees and demonstrates your promptness and commitment to engaging with potential customers.
 

Personalize Communications

Reference specific discussions or interests your booth visitors expressed at DEMA Show. This demonstrates your attentiveness and underscores that you value the connection.
 

Provide Value

Offer something of value in your follow-up, such as a relevant resource, an exclusive offer, or a solution to a problem they discussed with you. This reinforces your commitment to meeting their needs.

 

Address Questions

Did attendees ask you any specific questions that you promised to address later? If so, ensure you follow up and provide thorough and accurate answers to foster trust and confidence in your brand.

 

Utilize Multiple Channels

In addition to email, leverage social media, phone calls, or even direct mail to cut through the digital clutter and make a lasting impression.

 

Collect Feedback

Reach out to booth visitors and ask for feedback on their Show experience. This valuable information can guide future improvements and enhance your engagement strategies.

 

Express Gratitude

Send personalized thank-you notes to booth visitors, especially those with whom you had meaningful interactions. Express genuine appreciation for their time and interest in your offerings.

 

Pursue Partnerships

If you discussed potential partnerships with other exhibitors, reach out to continue the conversations and explore collaboration opportunities further. Cultivating these relationships can lead to mutually beneficial ventures.
 

Stay Connected

Continue nurturing and strengthening the relationships you established at DEMA Show by staying connected with contacts on social media and through your business network. Consistent engagement reinforces your brand presence and fosters long-term connections.

Utilize Content

Stay Active on Social Media

Maintain an active presence on social media platforms after DEMA Show. Keep the momentum going by engaging with attendees and sharing relevant content related to DEMA Show, the Show theme, or pertinent industry topics.
 

Leverage Captured Content

Utilize the photos and videos you captured on-site at DEMA Show to prolong its impact. Continue sharing and re-sharing this visual content across your social media channels, website, and email newsletters. Showcasing highlights from DEMA Show will enable you to extend your reach and reinforce key messages with your audience.

Evaluate Your Performance

Measure ROI

Evaluate the success of your DEMA Show participation by measuring metrics like leads generated, sales closed, engagement levels, and ROI, and compare it to your Show-related expenses. And since some buyers aren’t ready to buy immediately, you’ll want to continue measuring the results over the next several months to get an accurate analysis. 
 

Gather Feedback

Hold a post-show team meeting to discuss what worked, what didn’t, and what could have been done better. Seek input from all who contributed to the production, as each individual encountered distinct experiences that could be quite valuable. Use this feedback to refine your approach for future shows. 
 

Evaluate Goals

Compare your DEMA Show outcomes to the goals you set before the event. Celebrate your successes and identify areas for improvement.
 

Update Your Database

Ensure all lead information is accurate in your customer relationship manager (CRM) for easy tracking and ongoing communication.
 

Analyze Conversations

Review your booth staff's notes on conversations to identify common questions, concerns, and interests. Use this data to refine your messaging and address any areas for improvement.
 

Plan for DEMA Show 2025! 

Use the information above to start planning your strategy for the next DEMA Show, taking place November 11–14, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. Budget for any value-added promotions, advertising, and sponsorship opportunities ahead of time so you get extra bang for your buck.

A successful DEMA Show experience involves thorough planning, active engagement, and strategic follow-up. Each phase is interconnected and contributes to the overall effectiveness and success of your participation. For additional resources to help you make the most of your DEMA Show 2024 experience, visit our Exhibitor Resources page.

Special Thanks to Our 2024 Sponsors & Media Partners


 

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