2009’s Consumer Electronics Show in Vegas
was quieter than usual.
That was expected
with many regular exhibitors bailing
and companies sending fewer representatives.
During the Sunday wrap up,
I interviewed exhibitors.
There were two very clear camps
those that thought
this was the WORST show ever
and those that thought
this was the BEST show ever.
The difference?
The worst show booths were staffed
with trade show ‘professionals.’
As they were only tracking numbers,
they saw the decreased attendance
as a failure.
The best show booths were staffed
with company employees,
salespeople, engineers, new product developers
(my idea of paradise).
Yes, they agreed that
attendees were WAY down
but that was offset by the quality.
There were more buyers
(Wal-Mart and Costco buyers were HUNGRY)
and they had more time to talk to them.
No placeholders.
If you’re exhibiting at a tradeshow in 2009,
staff your booths with
people who are there
to sell.