No matter how small your business may be, the benefits of attending a trade show far outweigh any reason not to attend. These events have been developed to give owners, buyers and managers the opportunity to meet industry leaders, conduct business meetings, network with colleagues and investigate new products.

If you're operating your business with few or no employees, you may feel like there’s no time to attend a trade show. Consider hiring temporary help, ask family to assist or simply plan to close shop for a day, so you can attend the trade show. Before attending, you need to plan ahead and implement a strategy to get the most from your show experience.

Remember, knowing what you would like to accomplish before, during and after the show maximizes your time. Planning improves results

1. Pre-register for all show badges, seminars and special events to save time and money and avoid long lines.                                                                   
2. Plan to bring any employees who would greatly benefit from attending the trade show.
3. Come prepared. Bring your sales tax, vendor’s license number or resale certificate copies in case you want to do business with a new company that will require this information. If you plan to purchase any custom merchandise, bring artwork and other files on a flash drive. Most exhibitors are equipped with laptops and can quickly send the data to the appropriate department.
4. Have a large supply of business cards with complete contact information to give exhibitors.
5. Keep your show admittance badge in a standard place as soon as it’s removed, so it will be ready for the next day. Make sure your badge is in plain sight while browsing trade show booths.
6. Know your inventory needs before the show. Try to plan about six months in advance. This makes selection easier and establishes an outline for your product line, colors and promotions. Planning helps you stay within budget. More efficient purchasing saves money by grouping your orders to take advantage of discounts and special offers.
7. Come to the show with specific goals. This is the best way to evaluate what you originally set out to do. For example, find more competitive exhibitors, find a wider range of products to offer to your customers, or find new items to enlarge or expand your merchandise line.
8. Review the show directory before you begin viewing the exhibit displays. Mark the exhibitors you do not want to miss, so you reserve time to speak with them. Make these your priority. If possible, set appointments in advance. 
9. Some buyers like to make a quick pass through the exhibit hall first to filter out irrelevant items and note the booths they want to visit, so nothing is missed.
10. Carry a small tape recorder or notebook to capture the day's details. Make notes for the next day's actions and reminders of important to-do tasks upon returning home.
11. Check out "hot" selling items. Ask exhibitors what their best two or three items are and compare notes with others.
12. When considering a product or service expansion, ask questions to find out if this will increase your business. The response may disclose the marketing intent and help you decide if the product is right for you. Consider requested items that you might have previously passed on to others. Is it time to add those to your offerings now?
13. Check the freight costs in your area with each supplier and add that figure to the items you are buying. Compare the cost with other exhibitors that offer the same thing. Find out if there is a special that includes complimentary freight for orders placed at the show.
14. Ask about show specials. Many exhibitors offer special incentives for placing an order at the show, designed to save you serious money.
15. Ask if a co-op advertising program is available. If so, ask for requirements.
16. Delivery dates: Make sure your purchase does not have an impossible backorder list, especially if you need it right away. Find out average shipping time for new orders and re-orders. Check the backorder policy.
17. Minimum order requirements: Find what first orders and re-order requirements are.
18. Return policies: Get all the details upfront.
19. Total orders as you place them to avoid exceeding your budget. It is easy to do if you don't keep track while placing orders.
20. Review your order, then sign it. In the trade show rush, it is easy to make a mistake. Take a moment to go over the order to make sure everything you need is included, the right quantity or does not contain unneeded items. Find out the exhibitor’s policy for any errors you find after signing.
21. Know your re-payment plan. Decide before you shop how you will pay: by check, credit card or an open account. If you want to establish an account with new exhibitors, bring a copy of your other supplier credit references; you will need it for all new exhibitor credit applications.
22. Plan shipments. Sometimes you can take advantage of quantity-discount programs by planning split shipments over several months. Check with exhibitors—it can save you money.
23. Ask questions! You are among experts who are willing to answer questions about selling, market trends, business tactics and more.
24. Pack comfortable shoes, wear business-casual clothing and, remember, you are a representative for your business.
25. When possible, ask the exhibitor to mail catalogs, so you don’t have to carry them. If you can, bring a small wheeled tote to help with the load. Allow enough room in your suitcase to bring back more than you take. This includes literature, freebies and product samples.

TRAVEL AND HOTEL

1. Reserve your hotel room reservations early. Double check the cancellation policies.
2. Make airline reservations early, or if driving, plan your route.
3. Make reservations for shuttles or other airport transportation in advance.
4. Try to book a hotel close to the trade show.

MORE TIPS           

1. Take a break after a few hours to refresh, have a snack and get some fresh air.
2. Leave the show a little early to avoid long lines for buses and cabs.
3. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself to others.
4. Attend seminars and workshops if available. These educational presentations are why you came.
5. Don't linger too long at each booth, and don't stay in conversation with a company that you're not interested in doing business.