Trade Show University for Virtual & Live Events

Ep 071 - 6 Shocking & Powerful Lessons from Expo! Expo![00:00:00] So I attended a very, very large virtual event this past week. And I have to share with you six shocking and powerful lessons that I learned from attending this event. It was fantastic. It was eye opening, and you're going to love it. So stay tuned.Let's talk about Expo! Expo! It was just a phenomenal virtual event. It was supposed to be held live down in Louisville, Kentucky. And, it was, they were pushing and pushing and doing everything they could to have a live event. And just at the, really the last minute it was within about four weeks or so that they finally shifted and said, you know, we can't do it.[00:03:27] there's too much going on. Too much risk, eh, going on in the country to have people coming in for a live event at this point. So they switched over to virtual and I have got to tell you, I was so incredibly impressed, especially knowing how quickly they shifted from live to virtual. But let me tell you about this event. So this event and had over a hundred sessions, keynotes and workshops covering multiple tracks. So no matter where you were in the industry, what kind of a [00:04:00] focus you wanted, you were able to attend some really amazing. Amazing workshops. They had over a hundred exhibitors in their exhibit hall, which was fantastic.[00:04:11] And they had over 1200 attendees at this event. So it was a great event. , and it was a trade show. It was the trade show for trade shows. And really, like I said, one of the best virtual events I've ever attended, , they had. So much going on and gave so many opportunities to interact and engage with the speakers with other attendees and with the exhibitors, of course.[00:04:38] And it was just, it was fantastic. Learned so much from the different sessions. And made a ton of great connections. So, in fact, I'm going to be featuring several of the exhibitors in their own episode coming up and they share each of them shares a tip that they've got to, to help you with your results and your success in the industry.So you will want to be on the lookout for that episode coming up very, very soon. And the whole thing went off very smoothly. They have a fantastic team there. Everyone was, well-prepared used a great platform from swap card that made everything very, very smooth. And I mean, it had to take ups and I'll talk about that in a little bit, but it was really, really fantastic event.[00:05:23]So during this event, I took away six lessons. Like I said, some are shocking, all of them, very, very powerful. And here's what I learned. And I want you to take away for future events, especially if you are hosting events, whether that's something as simple as a, is the one hour webinar all the way up to a multi-day summit or trade show.[00:05:45] That you're doing online virtually here's six lessons. I want you to learn.[00:05:50]Number one, hold an intro session and take everybody through your platform. You may want to do multiple. If you're, if you're doing an event that's like a trade [00:06:00] show or a multi-day summit, you may want to have one session just for all those who are, are involved in putting it on your exhibitors, your sponsors, your speakers.[00:06:09] So they have an understanding of how to work the platform from their standpoint. And then when the event starts having an intro session for all of your attendees, so they understand how to navigate through the platform, how to attend sessions, how to get into the exhibit hall, how to interact with people, what to look for.[00:06:29] This was something they did very, very well. And they took the time to go through every feature and what to look for and when to check in and certain spots. So it was very, very well done. And this is something everyone needs to do because there's so many amazing platforms out there. And it seems like new ones...

Episode 070 - Future Event Industry Leader profile - an interview with Linda TongLinda Tong is a 2020 recipient of the IAEE Helen Brett Scholarship awarded to outstanding individuals pursuing an education and career in the Exhibitions and Events Industry.Linda Tong is a recent graduate of Iowa State University double majoring in Event Management and Music. In her years at college she has been involved in many organizations and events including the top choir at Iowa State, was a Special Event Director, and other activities such as The Fashion Show and PCMA. She also started a business while in school that is quickly growing and that she is now pursuing as a career after graduation. Linda's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindatongplanners/Linda Tong Planners website: https://www.lindatongplanners.com/ Sign up for the Trade Show University email newsletter and get our Free Ultimate Goal Setting Workbook!Just go to https://tradeshowu.biz/** This Episode Sponsored by the Virtual Events Institute **Become THE expert in Virtual Events! Special Offer just for Trade Show University listeners - Save $140 off the Virtual Events Institute Certification Program!Go to: virtualeventsinstitute.com and enter Promo Code VP02Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Episode 069 - Future Event Industry Leader profile - an interview with Danielle BellettiereDanielle Bellettiere is a 2020 recipient of the IAEE Helen Brett Scholarship awarded to outstanding individuals pursuing an education and career in the Exhibitions and Events Industry.Danielle is a student in her third year at the University of Central Florida’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management. She is pursuing a double major in Hospitality Management and Event Management. Originally from New York, Danielle has been able to gain industry related work experience as she's continued networking in Orlando.Danielle's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-bellettiere/Sign up for the Trade Show University email newsletter and get our Free Ultimate Goal Setting Workbook!Just go to https://tradeshowu.biz/Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Episode 068 - Future Event Industry Leader profile - an interview with Sarah GurneySarah Gurney is a 2020 recipient of the IAEE Helen Brett Scholarship awarded to outstanding individuals pursuing an education and career in the Exhibitions and Events Industry.Sarah Gurney is a senior at Johnson & Wales University majoring in Event Management. On campus, she is the president IAEE, the director of membership of LEA, and the Secretary of IAVM.Sarah's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcgurney/Sign up for the Trade Show University email newsletter and get a Free Gift!Just go to https://tradeshowu.biz/Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Episode 067 - Future Event Industry Leader profile - an interview with Amber PankeyAmber Pankey is a 2020 recipient of the IAEE Helen Brett Scholarship awarded to outstanding individuals pursuing an education and career in the Exhibitions and Events Industry.Amber is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Meeting and Event Management with San Diego State University. She is highly passionate about event planning and has worked in various facets in the industry, including weddings, university events, church service production, and now tradeshows/conventions. Currently works at event planning company, Your Meeting Pro (yourmeetingpro.com).Amber's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amberpankey/Sign up for the Trade Show University email newsletter and get a Free Gift!Just go to https://tradeshowu.biz/Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Episode 066 - Future Event Industry Leader profile - an interview with Ferdinando Castro GonzalezFerdinando Castro Gonzalez is a 2020 recipient of the IAEE Helen Brett Scholarship awarded to outstanding individuals pursuing an education and career in the Exhibitions and Events Industry.Ferdinando is in international student from Venezuela Majoring in Hospitality, Exhibitions, and Event management at Dallas College. His passion for the industry started at IAEE Expo Expo 2018, where many professionals taught him how these events could benefit our communities tremendously. Ferdinando's volunteer work resulted in many awards, internationally and nationally.** This Episode Sponsored by the Virtual Events Institute **Become THE expert in Virtual Events! Special Offer just for Trade Show University listeners - Save $140 off the Virtual Events Institute Certification Program!Go to: virtualeventsinstitute.com and enter Promo Code VP02Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Episode 065 - Future Event Industry Leader profile - an interview with Shiloh SchlauderaffShiloh Schlauderaff is a 2020 recipient of the IAEE Helen Brett Scholarship awarded to outstanding individuals pursuing an education and career in the Exhibitions and Events Industry.Shiloh is a senior studying Event Management with a minor in Hospitality Management at Iowa State University. She also took Spanish courses during these past three years to improve her fluency in hopes of working in events abroad. ** This Episode Sponsored by Audible **Listeners can get a Free Audiobook and Free 30-day risk-free Trial! Grab your Free Audiobook today at www.audibletrial.com/tradeshowuMentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Tips & Trends #4 brought to you by our sponsor - Groove Funnels!!Grab your Free Lifetime account to build web pages and funnels, AND it has an affiliate program attached - so you can also make money!Go to: Get My Free Lifetime Account!Going to give you a couple of powerful tips to make your current and future virtual events better!Tip #1 – Utilize the power of networking. Remember at live events, some of the best things that came from them were the relationships built and new connections made. So if you’re hosting an event, set aside time for networking. Whether that’s through zoom rooms, or a virtual after hours mixer, get your attendees networking with each other! Too many times it’s not natural to do in a virtual setting, so you need to be the one to make it happen.For you attendees, seek out networking opportunities. Maybe even through chat if you see another attendee make a great comment, often you can private message them. Remember if you are at the same event, odds are you have similar needs and interests.So please don’t forget about networking at your virtual events!Tip #2 – At the end of each event, get feedback from your team. If you’re hosting the event, find out what worked, what didn’t, what did you like about the platform, what would you do differently, document everything so you can learn and improve in the future. And do the same thing if you are an attendee.Trend – going back to live events! One in Singapore was held recently with 1000 attendees, and here are the main things they did to make it happen safely:·       Of course, mandatory mask wearing, tons of sanitizer stations and QR codes used throughout·       Daily on-site antigen rapid tests to make sure everyone was still healthy·       Staggered start times·       Everyone had to have the app for contact tracing and crowd management purposes·       Lots of signage and roping to create clear entry and exit paths. ·       Safe itineraries for out of town visitors included arranged sightseeing to ensure maximum safety was achievedDuring a talk at the event, Singapore's Minister for Trade and Industry said, "The industry can’t afford to wait for a vaccine and should focus on managing risk, rather than eliminating it."I love that sound, common sense approach! So now you have a glimpse of some of what you may see at live events in the future. Stay tuned because things can change daily!Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

With Virtual Events, the world is sitting and staring at a computer screen. Now more than ever, we need solid tips for helping keep everyone healthy and engaged! My guest is Brittany Liberatore, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist in Cleveland Ohio, CEO & Founder of Your Life Nutrition, and a Nutrition professor at Case Western Reserve University. Episode 005 with Brittany - https://tradeshowu.biz/episodes/episode-005-how-to-maintain-your-energy-at-trade-shows-with-brittany-cermak-rdn/Brittany’s top tips for Virtual Events:1 – Keep your eyes healthy!Being in front of a screen so much makes your eyes fatigued. So definitely keep your appointments with your eye doctor is to make sure that you are staying well in that regard.2 – Have a plan for your day.If you have no plan going into the day all of a sudden you’re just distracted by doing the laundry or doing things that are not necessarily a part of your to-do list during the day, its really easy for that time to fly by. So try to map out your responsibilities for the day. I try and do this tonight before so I can really wake up and start getting at my to do list as soon as possible. 3 – Plan time for social media.Social media is a huge distraction for me and maybe for you too. I found that carving out sometime during the day for brakes to check my social media for a set Of time is much better as opposed to opening up my social media every single time. 4 – Make time for movement!Right now most of us are sitting all day. Im working behind a desk and a computer and especially if you on transition to working from home, you’re probably no longer walking down the hall to your co-workers office or walking to the break room or walking from the parking lot or around your building. So those ways that we were probably active before and getting steps in and just being you don’t getting up and moving during the day may not Be the case. You might be taking about 20 steps from your bedroom to your desk and sitting there all day long. So talk about packing on the pounds. I start my day every day with a 20 to 30 minute walk. I wake up just a few minutes earlier in order to squeeze a saint before my Dave and get started so that I can help myself feel awake and energized and then I already know that I’ve gotten at least some activity in for the day since I spend a lot of my day sitting.Maybe you’re able to carve out time in the morning or ride your lunch or maybe another break during the day or even after work to get in and work out or walk. 5 – Take advantage of free online resources and apps.There are many different free resources online on there have been many apps out there and different online programs that will are offering free Fitness videos and different things like that. Google a free workout videos, or you can go on YouTube pretty much find any type of exercise your heart desires on there. 6 – Find an exercise you enjoy doing.You will stick with something longer if you enjoy doing it!7 – Utilize your technology.Many devices like Fitbits and Apple watches have personal trainers and coaches built in that will coach you through a quick workout. I mean how awesome is that? You’ve already paid $200 for a Fitbit and there is like a little workout app on your on your actual device that can walk you through doing the work out. 8 – HYDRATE!!!I cannot stress...

Tips & Trends #3 – The Thanksgiving edition! Because giving Thanks is always in season - even for virtual and live event professionals!Tip 1 – Start every day and every event with an attitude of gratitude! Say thank you first thing when you wake up! In fact say it several times. Remember things you are thankful for. Like thanks for allowing me to wake up. To get out of bed. For my family. For a roof over my head. And if you can’t think of anything, just say Thank You over and over. Let it permeate your mind. Guarantee your entire day will be better!And when planning an event – virtual or live – start by giving thanks for the opportunity to plan the event! Say thanks for the attendees who will be showing up, and give thanks all along the way. Do this and I bet you will get the best feedback and results! Try it!Tip #2 – This Thanksgiving and throughout the holiday season, remember those who might be lonely. This has been a very tough year for the majority of us, and especially those who have not been able to leave home because of health reasons. Or those in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living. Reach out to them. Say hi. Even if it’s someone you haven’t talked to in a while. Even if its uncomfortable.Do it anyway. It’s for them – not for you. Give a little bit of yourself for someone who is craving human connection. Ask questions. Share stories. Just be there and listen. You will get great rewards.Tip #3 comes from Registered Dietitian Brittany Liberatore of Your Life Nutrition. Her Thanksgiving Tip is all about Mindset. OLD MINDSET - I can't eat dessert and stay on track with my goals. I have to avoid all treats because I am on a diet."NEW MINDSET - I CAN enjoy dessert, eat it MINDFULLY and stop eating when I am full and satisfied. A portion of dessert won't get me off track!So don’t deprive yourself of the yummy foods on Thanksgiving and during the holidays! Just don’t overdo it! Eat until your satisfied. And if you do go a little overboard, don’t beat yourself up. Just get back on track! You got this!Our Trend – eating healthier and living a healthier lifestyle during the holiday season this year! More people than ever are making a commitment to get a jump start on what they usually do after new years – make those resolutions to get in better shape! Think how much better shape you will be in if you exercise more and eat healthier starting now! Even if you do indulge here and there, you’ll love the shape you’re in come January 1st!And to help you out, Brittany from Your Life Nutrition has agreed to share her exclusive Master Class on How to enjoy the holidays and stay on track with your goals!! Just click on the link and learn so many amazing tips right from a Registered Dietitian – and at no cost!Access the Exclusive Webinar here --> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_OEd5We-RB8zNB_QEji978yEfULQRwaW/view?usp=sharingSo there you go! 3 amazing tips about being Thankful and a trend to get you ready for 2021!And I just can’t end an episode about Thanks without thanking all of you who have listened and helped Trade Show University grow!I also want to thank my beautiful bride Mary Ann, and my kids Brittany and Jake for their love and support throughout the year, and my family and friends who have been there along the way.Also need to thank my incredible sponsors and the amazing offers they are making for...

Josh Weiss is the President of 10 to 1 Public Relations - a company which provides strategic communications planning, media relations, crisis communication management and other PR services. Josh Weiss that it takes 10 good things to be said about a company to equal one negative comment and that it’s essential build up a good will bank to grow and protect your business - and that's the reason behind his company's name. --------------------Get your FREE Lifetime Access to the new and powerful website and funnel building platform - GrooveFunnels! Save $100's per month vs the competitors!Check out all you get at http://tradeshowu.biz/groove/ <-- CLICK HERESponsored by GrooveFunnels--------------------Top PR Tips for Live & Virtual Events:The HIDDEN Media - all the industry magazines and publications are there at the event. You just can't see them because the show has a special room for them. Here's how to find them and get press:Start reaching out to industry media about 8 weeks prior to live events, 4 weeks prior for virtualIf you are an exhibitor, ask the show management for a Media List, then start digging and contactingCall them to invite them to your booth for a 10-15 minute meeting. Give them something specific you would like to show them or talk to them about.Get on their calendar Early!Follow up with a Thank You noteThe Press is the great equalizer for smaller companies. Gives you Social Proof you can use over and over.Speaking Opportunities:Nearly every show has speaking opportunitiesGiving a talk or hosting a workshop or seminar positions you as credible, newsworthy, and a thought leaderMake sure you are bringing VALUEDo NOT just give a long sales pitchPick one topic and submit multiple versions - one "punny", one serious/formal, one conversational.You submit multiple to give yourself a better chance of getting chosen. You don't know who is on the selection committee and what kind of tone they are setting for the event.Bring your BEST content!! Don't leave it out. People will want to do business with you!Contact Josh Weiss:Web: www.10to1pr.comPhone: 480-550-6500 Email: [email protected] Media: 10to1prMentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Keeping your Virtual Event audience engaged is so difficult with all the distractions they face. Here are two powerful tips plus a current trend all which you can use to your advantage in keeping your audience plugged in and wanting more!Tip 1 – Have shorter segments and more breaks·       Thanks to Jason Scott of JCS Marketing – He gave this tip and others on Trade Show U Episode #057·       Think about how we watch videos on Youtube·       We have an incredibly short attention span, and its only getting shorter!·       Break down your talk or topic into bullet points and then make each bullet point its own talk!·       Keep your audience engaged and attentive by continually changing speakers, tone, format and topicsTip 2 – Use your breaks to do market research – in a fun way·       Ask questions about your products and services·       Do polling·       Surveys·       GamesTrend – new entertainment options for virtual events! So many ideas used at live events can be now utilized for Virtual Events as well!·       Magicians - check out one of the top trade show magicians - Scott Tokar - and his interview on Trade Show University Episode #025·       Music·       Comedians·       Madlibbing·       GamesOur Sponsor: The Virtual Events Institute! Special Offer - Get 10% off the Virtual Events Institute Certification Program!Go to: virtualeventsinstitute.com and enter Promo Code VP02Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Tom Corcoran is the Founder and President of Corcoran Expositions, Inc. He has been successfully producing trade shows for more than 40 years and is a recognized leader in the industry. As President, Tom is involved in all aspects of the company and uses his experience and expertise to develop solutions for our client’s shows. Before establishing Corcoran in 1990, Tom served as Convention Director for the National Restaurant Association for 12 years. Tom has received the IAEE Pinnacle Award, presented by the International Association of Exhibitions and Events in recognition of extraordinary achievement in the exhibitions and events management field, and has been inducted into the University of Illinois’ Chicago Area Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame.www.corcexpo.com Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Tips & Trends #1 - quick episodes with the tips you need and the trends to watch!How do we get more people to Show Up at our Webinars and Virtual Events? I give 2 powerful tips to reduce your No-Shows! Plus I talk about GBAC - what it is and why it's important for returning to Live Events!Tip 1 - Send a physical program to registered Virtual Event attendees!Don't simply send email reminders for your virtual events - these get lost in the millions of emails we get daily!When people are registering, ask for their physical address (remember - it might be their home address)Then send them a physical agenda or event program in the mail!This will help them remember your event, and make you stand out in the sea of virtual events happening!Tip 2 - Offer multiple times for your Virtual Events!If people can't make the time you are having the event, there is 100% chance they won't show up!So unless it's a multi-day event, offer the event at multiple timesALSO - offer replays of your eventThese ideas give you a greater chance of getting more attendees!TREND - Health and Safety - GBACYou may have seen the letters GBAC pertaining to a facility.GBAC is the Global Biorisk Advisory CouncilGBAC is a network of scientists, experts and specialists who offer consulting, training, education and auditing for environments which require higher level of cleaning and disinfectionGBAC is working with facilities to certify them (GBAC Star Certification) so Live Events can come back quicker!HAVE A TIP OR TREND YOU'D LIKE TO SEE FEATURED ON THE PODCAST?Send an email to [email protected] in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Jason Scott - owner of JCS Marketing - has run dozens of live regional events over the years. But in 2020, he had to pivot to doing a Virtual trade show for the very first time so he could continue to serve his sponsors, exhibitors and customers.Jason shares with us all of the Lessons Learned while venturing into this new territory for the first time, as well as the challenges he faced.Practice Practice!Pre-Record as much material as possibleGo through a complete run-through ahead of timeHave your vendor let you experience one of their productions so you can see how things operateTake good notes and learn for future events!Have more staffing than you think you needEven more takeaways...To Connect with Jason:Email: [email protected]: jcsmarketinginc.com*** GET 10% OFF a Virtual Event Certification ***Visit virtualeventsinstitute.comUse promo code VP02Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

I was watching a speech from Tony Robbins - the most successful life coach and motivational speaker in the world - and even though he wasn't talking directly to the Trade Show and Events industry, it sure seemed like it to me! Among his many points, he gave three powerful lessons which I want to share with you in this episode - and show you how you can incorporate these into your upcoming virtual and live events!1.    You act different based on where you think you are in a relationship·      What will you do for someone at the beginning of a relationship? ANYTHING!!·      But as time goes on we lose that·      Think cell phones and cable companies. They lure us in with huge promotions and then seem to forget about us.·      What are you doing to build long-lasting relationships with your sponsors and exhibitors? With attendees? Customers?·      Successful marriage counselors try to get couples to remember what things were like at the beginning at start doing those things again!2.    Why do kids beat us in video games? They Anticipate!Ever play a little kid in a video game you have never played before? Why can they play for 45 minutes when we can't last 45 seconds?·      They have already played the game·      They know the road ahead·      They have ANTICIPATION·      WINNERS anticipate – LOSERS react·      Roger’s Top 20 Questions – episodes 9 & 10Check out my interview with Roger Miller:Part 1 - https://tradeshowu.biz/episodes/episode-009-using-the-power-of-improv-at-trade-shows-with-roger-miller-of-tues7/Part 2 - https://tradeshowu.biz/episodes/episode-010-using-the-power-of-improv-at-trade-shows-part-2-with-roger-miller-of-tues7/·      Can be more efficient and effective, and get people out of your booth3.    Engagement is the key to Breakthrough in business·      Think about this – being first or having the most resources isn’t enough·      MySpace vs FB·      Vimeo vs YT·      Yahoo vs Google·      Each of these was successful because they were better at Engagement·      The greater the engagement, the more fulfilling·      Think about it – we like being around those who take interest in us·      Business imitates life because people buy from peopleTake these three things away…1.    Always act like you’re at the beginning of the relationship2.    Anticipate what is going to happen next. Brainstorm with your team on those top 20 questions3.    Engage and stay engagedBecome an EXPERT in Virtual Events! Get your Certification from the Virtual Events Institute! Use code VP02 for 10%...

Joining the podcast today is one of the most successful podcasters of all time – the one and only John Lee Dumas – host of the Entrepreneurs on Fire podcast!John Lee Dumas has recorded nearly 3000 episodes and has over 1 million downloads per month. He shares tons of tips and value nuggets for success including his secret weapon to maintaining high energy!There is a Common Path to Uncommon Success. The common path is following the systems that already work. Most will not do what it takes.Be Intentional with everything you doPut in the Reps! The best way to get better at what you do is to continue doing it!Remember no matter what you are going through - This Too Shall Pass. This is true for good times and bad. Always be prepared.To keep energy high - you must learn how to batch.For growth in whatever industry you are in - Become a Person of ValueFor everything John Lee Dumas has to offer:Visit EOFire.comGrab a Free Audiobook: audibletrial.com/tradeshowuMentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

In this State of the Live Events & Trade Shows Industry, two of the leaders of IAEE - which is THE industry association globally - share the amazing great lengths they are going through to ensure a safe return to Live face-to-face events for everyone. Welcome to Episode 54 of Trade Show University!David DuBois is the CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events – the Global association for the industry. David has 45 years of hospitality, tourism, exhibitions and business events experience. IAEE has Members from over 50 countries that represent and support the global exhibitions industry.Scott Craighead is the VP of Exhibitions and Events for IAEE. Involved in the industry for 18 years producing exhibitions and events in the U.S. and globally. Currently responsible for budgeting, show development and design, technology solutions, personnel, contracts and overall logistics for IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition Expo! Expo! and other IAEE produced events. Here are Links to the Events and Organizations mentioned in the episode:Expo! Expo! - myexpoexpo.comIAEE - iaee.comExhibitions Mean Business - www.iaee.com/exhibitions-mean-business/Go Live Together - golivetogether.comGBAC (Global Biorisk Advisory Council) - gbac.issa.com Free Goal Setting Workbook - tradeshowu.bizCheck out Expo! Expo! and see the Future of Live Events!Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

RD Whitney is the Co-Founder of the Virtual Events Institute (VEI) and the CEO of Media 365. RD has a long and successful track record in establishing, managing and delivering business community solutions across many markets and industries. RD joins host Jim Cermak in a discussion about the future of Virtual Events, how to get better results from them, and what Certification programs are happening at the Virtual Events Institute.RD was an accomplished leader at global media companies Tarsus, Diversified Communications and several other media groups, and served 6 years on board of Onstream (pioneers of webcasting and virtual). He has also launched and managed 5 successful national certification programs and brings 30 years of experience connecting buyer and seller together through the gravity of professional training, events (f2f and virtual), education, peer learning and data.RD's Top Takeaways:In shifting to Virtual Events, seek to Transform, not Translate!Trade Shows can - and should - become a community that interacts all year long.Identify best practices, share them with others, and learn from others.Look into the Certification programs offered by VEI which can benefit Trade Show, Expo, Event and Conference producers, organizers, exhibitors, sponsors and marketers.Hybrid events are the future. Learn how to make your future live and in-person events follow the hybrid model.Visit These Websites:www.VirtualEventsInstitute.comwww.Media365.comContact RD Whitney:Email: [email protected]: RD WhitneyTwitter: rdwhitneyMentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Trade Show U host Jim Cermak shares powerful tips and information on how to successfully shift from Live to Virtual Events while being interviewed on the My Ag Life podcast by host Jason Scott!So a little bit different episode - it's my podcast featuring someone else's podcast!This episode will bring great value to Show Producers & Organizers, Exhibitors, and Sponsors.If Agriculture is your thing, then definitely check out the My Ag Life podcast! http://www.myaglife.com/Get a FREE Audiobook & FREE 30-day Trial to Audible!www.audibletrial.com/tradeshowuMentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Kate Erickson is the engine at Entrepreneurs On Fire, an award winning podcast where John Lee Dumas interviews inspiring Entrepreneurs who are truly ON FIRE. She is also the host of the podcast Ditch Busy and co-author of The Podcast Journal: Idea to Launch in 50 Days. Her goal: to help entrepreneurs ditch busy and achieve financial and lifestyle freedom.Kate's Tips:Have the right Systems in place to create efficiencies so you can Grow!Focus on just one thing at a time. With all of the programs, courses and membership sites that make up the Entrepreneurs on Fire domain, they have never created more than one thing at a time. Plan, create, launch and measure before moving on to the next thing.Consider starting a podcast for credibility! Go to: freepodcastcourse.comCheck out the Entrepreneurs on Fire podcast with host John Lee Dumas: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/entrepreneurs-on-fire-online-business-podcast/id564001633Check out Kate's Ditch Busy podcast!https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ditch-busy/id1493463273Today's Sponsor - DesignPod Studio! An unconventional marketing, branding and design company:Check out their website: designpod.studioMentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

What are Funnels and how can they be a secret weapon in driving traffic to your webinars and virtual events?Cory Carter is the COO of Hindsight Hacking Media and Co-Host of the podcast Hindsight Hacking. At HHM they provide business coaching, sales funnels, graphics design, logo and branding work, Facebook Ads, Social Media content and execution and all things podcasting. Finding partnerships the right way and utilizing the people and other businesses to compliment your offersPhysical or digital, online or brick and mortar let's talk about increasing your visibility, traffic and salesJoin Cory's upcoming Challenge:Go to https://facebook.com/groups/now22 to register and for more details!How should people get in touch with you? https://nowmydream22.comhttps://facebook.com/groups/now22https://coryecarter.comMentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

As you transition from Live Trade Shows and Events to Virtual Events and Webinars, are you frustrated with the lack of results and ROI you're experiencing? Here are 4 Critical things you must do, shift, and focus on to see your results be maximized!!(1) Higher Your Expectations and Change Your Mindset! Changing your mindset is the first thing you need to do. No - virtual events are NOT live events. Yes - it's more difficult to interact with your attendees. But that doesn't mean you don't go into your event with higher expectations! Shift your mindset to one of positivity, and make sure that goes for your team as well!(2) Set Solid GoalsThis is a MUST for any event - virtual or live! Pick the right metric and then go after it with all you can muster! But you won't ever hit your goals if you don't have any.(3) Engage! Engage! Engage!Just like with live events, engagement with your attendees is what will lead to more leads, more demos and more sales! Figure out your technology platform and then engage with every person that is on your webinar or walks into your "virtual booth"!(4) Follow Up!Have a solid follow-up strategy for after the event. More critical with virtual events than even with live events to be memorable, timely and effective with your follow ups!(BONUS!) Hold a Contest for those working the EventYou want better results? Then hold a contest and give incentives for those who strive to hit the mark! Just be sure the contest ties directly to your goals!Let me know how you're doing during this pandemic! Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimcermak/Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.cermak.3979Email me: [email protected] in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

FOR THE SPECIAL VIDEO TIPS OFFER – Visit: https://www.flexmediacle.com/tradeshowu/-------------------------------------------NOTE: The transcription below is from an automated transcription service. I apologize in advance for any errors.On the podcast today are Kathie Zipp and Bill Baraona, owner of Flex Media. Kathie is a writer and producer with Flex Media with a decade of trade, publishing and marketing experience under her belt. With her journalism background. She combines technical writing and creativity to craft words that help companies tell stories and market messages. And Bill Baraona has over a decade of professional video production experience. And he along with his wife, Jackie founded flex media, but he's not watching YouTube tutorials and listening to marketing podcast which constantly allows him to be trying new things like combining different production styles with emerging technologies to deliver clients type of live video event he loves spending time with his family. Tell us a little bit first about flex media and all the things that you guys do.Flex media is a video marketing company. We're located in Cleveland, Ohio. And really the company was kind of founded, at least from my perspective, when I originally started it under the idea of helping clients get more out of their videos that they were creating at the turn. At that time. I didn't really know too much about video marketing or even what that looked like. But I just knew that when a client would get a video and they had worked with the larger production house because I had worked for some in the past that they would spend 10s 20s 30,000 For a video, they put that on YouTube. And then they would get maybe 10 2030 views, most of them probably from family members and friends. And I just it bothered me that they weren't getting a return on investment. And it really just didn't make sense to me. Why would you spend all this money for a vanity piece? You know, it's more than video. You know, when people buy a product, they're not necessarily always looking for the specific thing they're buying, they're looking for a solution to their problem. So at flex media, we try and provide those solutions by implementing video marketing and strategy into our videos. Before we even start creating the scripts or creating the video that way our customers are successful with the choices that they're making and the people they're trying to bring in.I like that, and that sounds a little bit different than just as the traditional, hey, build me a video that you're actually starting with the strategy in mind for the for that your customer to really help them get out of those results. So we're thinking about virtual events. We're thinking about these these times when we are we don't we're not face to face with our customer. How can video help in that engagement and keep people engaged during the the webinar during the event, things like that.The big thing with video is and this is kind of across the industry and what a lot of professionals have said is it's the way that most people prefer to learn. It gives your mind a mental break really like you don't have to read you don't have to necessarily always be paying 100% attention because the visuals help with a knowledge transfer. So by using video in your webinars by even including it, like if you're going live, for example, and you say hey, we're gonna take a break here so I can show you a short video. There's a lot of people said there's like a, I guess, connection between watching a video and professionally and actually watching a video like a movie. So you really don't feel like you're working you feel like you're getting to kind of like slack off. But really the...

Adam Sublett is an Account Manager at Benchmark Craftsmen - a trade show display builder that has been working with some of the largest brands in the US for decades. Adam talks about pivoting for survival during this pandemic.Adam started full time at Benchmark in 2007, but has always been involved in the industry being third generation in the business. His career started on the service side supervising installations and dismantles of tradeshow booths and other exhibits all over the country. After that, Adam took what he learned on the road and relayed that experience into managing production for the better part of a decade. He has managed key accounts for the company over the past few years including Diebold Nixdorf in North Canton, Ohio and Harley-Davidson Motor Company in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Most recently, Adam has been focusing on the overall operations of the company.Adam's top tips:Tip #1 – Be steady and kind. The work we do in the trade show industry is challenging enough, certainly it can be stressful at times – a bad attitude makes that 10x worse. That’s something I have been trying to work on myself over the past few years (some days are better than others, admittedly). Try to have some fun with it all.Tip #2 - Travelers out there – keep a notebook and write down all the cool restaurants or scenic spots that you go to. I feel like I failed miserably at this early in my career when I was traveling a lot – I would go to some great restaurant and never bother to write the name down. I would always try to remember that spot the next time I was in that particular city – and I never could. I worked with a guy that did actually keep a restaurant journal and now I have to bother him every time I travel and get the name of a cool spot in Chicago or Atlanta.The top 1-2 takeaways you have for the listenersI think as an industry, we find ourselves in a frustrating situation that we can not just work harder, or longer to fix the problem. Our industry is not loaded with patient people, I know I am not – but that is what we have to do right now. We are born problem solvers, so it is hard for us all to sit and spectate from the sidelines.I think that our community has been impacted harder than most other industries during this time. We were one of the first to be shut down and will most likely one of the last back to relevance. I think it’s important to reach out to our elected officials and ask that they support the live events industry in the coming months. For so many small businesses, it is literally one day at a time and we will need the help to stay alive until live events return.Check out the HiVe 360 demo:https://benchmark-virtual.com/DEMO/The HiVe 360° online experience is a tool to communicate, connect and engage. HiVe 360° expands your message.Our goal is to merge the practicality of a live event with the functionality and innovation of the emerging virtual technologies.Using your investments in custom event assets as the building blocks these will be pre-set, merchandised and digitally captured using your existing and new properties and demos to create an exclusive experience reflecting what your customers are familiar with.The hybrid approach of functional reality and virtual engagement brings the hybrid event platform to life without feeling like a video game or phone app.How to Get in Touch with Adam:[email protected] Sublett on LinkedInMentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel...

Never thought 5 months ago we would still be in a place where we didn’t know when live events were going to be back full steam again. Thought a month or two at most, but we were all wrong – and not in a good way. So where are we headed? What are the emerging trends in the industry? I’m going to talk about 5 trends I’m seeing – and these are backed by industry research. But before I get to that…Over the past few months I have had people ask if I was going to continue doing my podcast since Covid wrecked the trade show industry. And I gotta tell you – I wondered that myself at the beginning. Many stopped listening, but many new listeners came around when I started doing more episodes about virtual events and how to get the best results from those. I never stopped because so many depend on trade shows coming back. And I know that live events will come back eventually, and companies are going to need help more than ever doing them right and getting the info on how live events will be changing! But the reason Why I do this podcast has not changed from day 1. I saw an opportunity to help companies get better results from their trade shows, conferences and events. I would see exhibitors make the same mistakes over and over at every single show leaving with results far below what they could get. I thought, you know what Jim – these companies could probably double their results if they just knew how to do things better. So I created this podcast and continue adding value every week just to help you all. I want to see you win! I don’t ever put out an episode with the intention of giving no value. I’m sure some resonate more than others. But I just want to help!! And right out of the gate I got testimonials of real results coming from the information in the podcast. That is awesome! And now I’m hearing of results coming from virtual events as well.So I want to ask you 3 quick easy favors.1.     Let me know how I can help you. What are your biggest challenges when it comes to trade shows or virtual events? What are you struggling with most? Please let me know so I can hit those topics or bring on the best experts to get the answers you need! Search for me (James Cermak) on Facebook, connect, and shoot me a DM! Or email me at [email protected].     Please share this podcast with others! Who do you know that’s in business that does 3.     Please subscribe!And if you haven’t gotten my absolutely free Goal Setting Workbook for Trade Shows – get over to my website at tradeshowu.biz and put in your email! Then I’ll email you your guide in 24 hours – just be on the lookout for an email from me! Ok – so for those of you who have hung with me throughout this crazy journey – thanks! And for those who are just now coming on board, go back and listen to past episodes and learn! Take notes! I have had people say it’s like a Masterclass on Trade Shows. That’s why I say I’m here to help you get your PhD in ROI!But right now today in August 2020, where are we? Still so many unknowns. It’s really frustrating. Virtual has become the norm for trade shows, conferences and events for right now.I was listening to an interview yesterday with John Maxwell, one of the world’s top experts on leadership, and he said something that really spoke to me. He said think about being in an unknown place and you have to head home, it’s night, it’s dark and no streetlights. Your headlights on your car will only shine about 300 feet, but that’s enough to get...

How do you monetize a virtual event? You’re still putting in a lot of time, money, energy and resources, and now in a new platform that you’re not completely familiar or comfortable with. So you may need to recoup some of those costs or how about even making a profit?? Some of you considering a virtual event may be a single company looking to reach out to your audience. Others of you may be trade show organizers trying to make the change to virtual events.But talking with some folks who are going virtual for the first time, they are having a really tough time getting vendors and companies that were sponsors in the past for live events to sponsor virtual events. Some just don’t understand what they can get for their money, what kind of exposure they will have – and its up to you as the event organizer to educate them on this. That is your only chance.1.      Show value to the sponsor2.      Make the amounts appropriate. Your costs are probably going to be considerably less, so if you charged a sponsor $5000 last year to sponsoring a networking event, maybe bring the total down to something more reasonable. You can still make the same profit from your event!3.      Appeal to continuity of long-term sponsors. Important to continue building relationships – especially during this time4.      Consider bartering, trading in-kind servicesWith the world and business landscape changing, Companies all over are looking for new ways to reach out to new customers. Make it easy for them!So what can you offer to potential sponsors? Many of the traditional sponsor opportunities aren’t available – or are they. Things Like lunch, lanyards, tote bags and more may seem unavailable but I’m hoping to get you to think in new ways today!So here’s 9 Creative ways to offer sponsorship opportunities for your Virtual event. Many of these are creative takes on what is done at live in-person events. So be sure to not stop at just these 9 – grab your team or reach out to your vendors and past sponsors and brainstorm new ways and opportunities to make this a powerful event for all!1.      Mail out an event Program – this can be extremely powerful! At in-person events, there typically is an event program handed out to everyone. Many of these never get read, or maybe just skimmed over. But with a virtual event, having a physical program arrive in the mail will grab people’s attention! Not only will they read through it prior to your event, but you can reference it often during your event. Love this!2.      Mail out sponsored gifts – use your creativity to send out logo’d items that meet the theme of your event or bring value to your attendees. Or can be special ones just from your sponsors.3.      Event Swag Bag – you know the tote bag or backpack full of literature and promo items you get when you show up at an event. You can do this! And you can do it physically or digitally.·        To do it physically would be how show organizers do it today. Have sponsors pay to have their literature or giveaway items put into a special event bag – and that bag would be mailed out to all attendees. Again – having something show up in the mail can have tremendous impact. ·        To do it digitally means that everything your sponsors would include in the swag bag would be digital or electronic. Things like pdfs of literature, access to white papers or exclusive videos and training, discount offers, e-gift cards and more. Get creative and offer value to your...

Head with me to Charleston, SC to Hall’s Chophouse! Hall's Chophouse is a 5-star, family-owned and operated restaurant in downtown Charleston. They are known for their steaks, service and overall great food.So how did this amazing restaurant teach me so much about getting better results at Trade Shows and in Business? Let me go through my experience again and tell you some powerful takeaways you can use.Waiting in line outside when one of the owners – a member of the Hall family – popped out of the door and greeted every single person in line.  --- How are you greeting people at your exhibit? Do they feel special? Or like just anyone else? Or like they’re bothering you? Be happy and excited! If you knew that this was going to be your best customer ever, how would you greet them?---  If you’re running a promo like a prize wheel or something that causes a line of people to form, send someone out to greet each person and thank them for coming. Also get them qualified and ask them questions while they’re standing there.---  Think about it – at Hall’s, it was my first time being there and I’m waiting in line outside. My first thought was, maybe we should go somewhere else. But when someone came out and greeted me and sincerely thanked me for being there, there was no way I was getting out of line.Inside there was a jazz trio playing right by the door, and A lot of talking, a lot of laughing, smiles, people all around having a great time.  ---  So how are you setting the tone at your booth?---  What’s the atmosphere you’re setting at your booth? The lighting, the mood of your staff, the messaging, the colors. Is it inviting? Does it draw people in? ---  How about this question – if you were walking by your booth, would you want to walk up to it?Once seated, had two people serving our table. Again – setting the tone that this would not be average service. --- Do your customers know more than just you at your company?Brought out a cutting board with several steaks and our Main Server went through their specials describing each dish in a way that made your mouth water.  ---  How are you describing your products and services? Are you separating yourself from your competitors, or fitting right in with the pack?---  Think about it – you may have the best product on the market, but if you’re just using generic terms to describe it, then you’re now a commodity. And you’ll be fighting on price instead of getting a price you deserve.Everything that arrived at our table was a feast for the eyes!  ---  Are you putting your best foot forward? Does your booth look good? Is your literature neat and filled? Are your giveaways neatly placed out? Did someone leave a coffee cup in the middle of your counter? Be sure to have someone in charge of getting the booth straightened up and keeping it looking the best at least a couple of times during the show.And of course, the food tasted as good or better than expected.  ---  Make sure if you’re doing product demos that your product works! I have seen things go wrong a couple of times over the years. One time the product which was sent out to do demos was defective. So frustrating! Another time saw a company with a software product and they were relying on their own internet hotspot to run their demos. However in the hall the internet reception was horrible. So they kept getting stuck. Not a good look and can be avoided! ---  Here’s a Pro Tip – if you are going to be relying on internet service, go...

Welcome to TSU. This is going to be a different kind of episode, but we are in different times right now! I’m going to give you a quick update on what is happening out there in the Trade Show and Live Event industry, share some comments from one of the industry leaders, and then give you some words to help fuel your results.If you’ve been listening to some of my episodes over the past few months, you know I am a big proponent of getting back to live events. I’m also a big proponent of getting results! I understand that right now for the vast majority, virtual is where its at. That’s why I have been featuring tips and techniques for getting better results from your virtual events. And I’ll continue to be doing that and featuring new platforms and initiatives in the upcoming months.However, I want to point out once again how critical it is to get back to live events. There are so many jobs affected and so much economic impact not gained whenever a live event is cancelled.It starts with the event venues and their staffs, the marketing and planning companies, the printing and display companies, everyone involved in travel – including airlines, rental cars, uber and taxi, hotels, parking, restaurants, catering, and the list goes on and on. Not to mention all the tax benefits an influx of cash does for the host cities. Back in Episode 41 I had on 3 leaders of the Go Live Together initiative including the CEO of IAEE, CEO of CEIR (Center for Exhibition and Industry Research) and Sr. VP of Strategy for Freeman. They talked about the over $1 Trillion impact live shows and events has on the world economy. $1 Trillion! Think about that number. And over 1 million jobs affected. So virtual is great, and it’s getting more effective. And you gotta take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. But it’s never going to completely replace the opportunities and impact of live events!Here’s the kicker – and it was brought up in the Go Live Together episode. Think about those serendipitous opportunities – those chance encounters that just happen. Someone you sat next to at lunch or at a workshop or wherever. Those simply don’t happen virtually.And how about the small company you never heard of that lands a huge account because they were at the show and did something to grab the attention of an attendee. Or the huge account was that person they sat next to at lunch! All these opportunities pretty much disappear.Health and safety is the main hurdle right now. Show organizers around the world, and organizations like Go Live Together, are working with each other and with government leaders to make these venues and events as safe as possible so we can get people working again, get that $1 Trillion back into the economy, and get the opportunities back for everyone.In a research study just done recently by Enigma Research and Exhibitor Magazine they state that 89% of people who have traveled to a live event in the past 2 years would travel to another event in the future. So the desire is there! I encourage you to go back and check out Episode 41 on Go Live Together – such an important episode! And if you are doing Virtual trade shows, I have several episodes with tips and tricks to get the most out of these events.Before we go on to the next topic, let’s talk about something that plagues so many exhibitors out there – and that is having results that underperform and are underwhelming. You know the #1 reason companies underperform at shows? The #1 Reason why companies don't get the results they want from these events is that they don’t set good solid GOALS!I’m here to help IMPROVE YOUR RESULTS! 👈Get my exclusive Ultimate Goal Setting Workbook for Trade Shows, Events and Expos at NO

Eddie Thomason is a best-selling author and inspirational speaker who helps empower youth and young adults to shed self-limiting beliefs to pursue a life that they’re passionate about living. He is a connector of people, and knows all about the importance of mindset.Eddie's Top Tips:- To best engage with your audience, share Your Story. Your story helps start the relationship building which is critical to sales.- Products Tell – Stories Sell!- You don’t get what you Want in life…You get what you Expect! At Trade Shows, if you expect to have a bad show, you’ll have a bad show. Expect greatness!!- Always be thinking, “How Can I Serve?”- Leave A Legacy! What is your brand?? Get Eddie’s Book Unlock Yourself: Go get Eddie’s book: Unlock Yourself: How to Earn the Success You Were Born to Create  bit.ly/unlockyourselfbookAlso, there’s a free workbook to download @ https://eddiethomason.com/unlockyourself where they can APPLY the knowledge they learn inside of the book.Contact Eddie and to learn more:Call or Text: (607) 624-4168Email: [email protected]: Eddie ThomasonInstagram @eddiethomason_Facebook: @thomasoneddieYouTube: Eddie ThomasonMentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Go Live Together is a critical and growing initiative which has the potential of over $1 Trillion in Economic Impact, plus positively impacting literally millions of jobs around the world who are part of what they are calling the Live Events Ecosystem.Honored to have these 3 leaders as my guests today:Cathy Breden - CEO, Center for Exhibition Industry Research Foundation (CEIR) – Exec Vice Pres/Chief Operating Officer at International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE)In her work over the past 12 plus years with CEIR, she has been leading the primary research studies that prove the effectiveness and efficiency of exhibitions as a marketing medium. She and her team then incorporate those findings to promote the image, value and growth of exhibitions.Sue Sung – Senior Vice President of Strategy at Freeman, a global brand and leader in the live events industry. If you have any experience at all in planning exhibits for any period of time, you most likely have worked with Freeman in some aspect. In her role, Sue works with senior executives to set the strategic direction for the company. She partners with business leaders to identify, develop, and execute programs that drive performance in support of Freeman’s overall goals. Sue has extensive experience in strategy consulting across a broad range of industries, and is making a difference in the trade show and live events industry.David DuBois is the President and CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE).As IAEE’s president, DuBois is responsible advocating for the industry and the organization’s members, providing organizational leadership and strategic counsel to the board. Also, he serves as the association’s representative with industry coalitions, partner organizations and strategic alliances. In other words, he’s going out every day sticking up for all of us in the industry! In 2019, DuBois was inducted into the Events Industry Council’s “Hall of Leaders,” one of the industry’s most prestigious honors.WATCH THIS VIDEO: https://www.freeman.com/insights/what-the-future-of-events-will-look-likeHow did the idea of Go Live Together come about?We knew we had a responsibility to the live events industry (and to the economy at large) as we navigated the unprecedented impact of COVID-19. We wanted to do what we could to prepare for and accelerate recovery post-pandemic, and knew that our collective impact and message would be greater than individual ones. From there, we formed the coalition and have seen an outpouring of support across the industry. Why is this initiative so important for the industry?Go LIVE Together has assembled leaders from across the diverse and vibrant live events ecosystem to drive local, state, and federal legislative actions that will not only be critical to our ability to put millions of people back to work, but also for our country’s economic recovery.The beauty of the coalition is that it is not anchored to any one company, but truly represents our collective industry. How did you get such key industry associations and partners to get involved?We engaged with leaders across the events industry, and word spread quickly across social media as well. People believed in our message and goals and were eager to get involved. Go LIVE Together now has over 1,500 organizations representing tens of thousands of companies and millions of jobs, and over 2,500 members. What are the main goals of Go Live Together?Go LIVE Together focuses on...

Ben Thomas currently serves as the Sr. Director of Publishing for MarketScale, a B2B publisher and strategic marketing firm, overseeing 16 publications. He has over a decade of award winning experience in visual direction and media creation for large scale events, Over The Top & live streaming platforms, marketing, network television, and social media. Ben decided on his career path at the age of 7, and to date has led some of the most influential brands in the world to billions of content interactions.Ben's Top Tips:- Think about what your audience wants to see or learn.- Remember to Educate, Inform and Inspire!- Try going LIVE! Grab your phone, do a Zoom call live, or if you are too apprehensive to go Live, record a video and then work the chat during the "live" broadcast- Don't replicate what you do at Traditional Trade Shows. This looks like you're not making any effort. Have to do more to Engage with your audience!- Own your channel! Learn more about BrandLive: Visit: https://www.marketscale.com/solutions/live-video/Contact Ben and to learn more:Email [email protected]: https://www.marketscale.com/Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

The Trade Show industry is moving toward Hybrid Trade Shows and Events, but what are they? And could they be our Future?Welcome to Trade Show University! I am your host Jim Cermak and we continue to talk virtual as the entire trade show industry continues to morph and reinvent itself. Ultimately we will get back to live events – we need to get back to live events! So much of the economy relies on live events happening. In fact – there is a new effort happening called Go Live Together (https://www.golivetogether.com/) which is being spearheaded by leadership from some of the largest trade show industry associations! I am super excited and honored to bring you a special episode in a few weeks featuring an interview with some of the people behind Go Live Together – you will not want to miss that very important episode! So be sure to subscribe to Trade Show university on iTunes, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you listen to this podcast!Also please stay tuned to later in this podcast where I’m going to give share a story of how an organization put on a successful trade show in the middle of Covid! You will learn so much about what you can possibly do right now.Before we dive in to today’s main topic, let’s talk about something that plagues so many exhibitors out there – and that is having results that underperform and are underwhelming. You know the #1 reason companies underperform at shows? The #1 Reason why companies don't get the results they want from these events is that they don’t set good solid GOALS!I’m here to help IMPROVE YOUR RESULTS! 👈Get my exclusive Ultimate Goal Setting Workbook for Trade Shows, Events and Expos at NO CHARGE!! 🔥This Workbook takes you through the SMART Goal setting process for: ✅ Creating your Main Metrics ✅ Pre-Show Goals ✅ In-Show Goals ✅ Post-Show Goals ✅ Individual Goals ✅ And more! ⭐️ Plus a BRAND NEW section on Must-Do’s for VIRTUAL Trade Shows & Events!This will be a tremendous resource for your company that will help you Improve Your Results. Plus you get it absolutely Free!💥 Just go to www.TradeShowU.biz to get your copy!! Get it today because this is the kind of information that can literally double your results! So pause this right now, and get over to tradeshowu.biz!Okay so in today’s episode we’re going to be talking about a fairly new trend that is popping up in the trade show world, and that is something called Hybrid events. Like I said we need to get back to live events, and as cities are starting to open up organizers are looking to schedule their in-person events. But as they begin planning, here’s the million dollar question – will anyone come? Will they get the number of exhibitors they have previously? What will the attendance numbers be? So many unknowns as many companies have decided to not exhibit for the foreseeable future, and many attendees aren’t going to take the risk. And even those who are open to exhibiting are asking if its worth it if the attendees don’t show up and vice versa. So here’s what’s going on. Since Covid started, we have all seen a switch to virtual online events. They’re getting more doable, new software platforms and new capabilities are coming on line.  They have quickly become the norm. Plus just because attendees aren’t comfortable with or question the value of attending doesn’t mean they don’t WANT to attend!So the transition to Live events has become a

Here are the Top 10 Must-Do's for having a successful and engaging Virtual Trade Show!!1-Know your audience--  What are they looking for that you can offer?--  What are they going through? Especially now! --  Set the right time of day – is audience business or consumer? Local, regional or global?    2-Set your strategy--  First – think about how you usually do trade shows. Or what your best trade shows brought.  Make sure you try to work as many of these aspects into your virtual shows.-- One time live or replays available?--  What do you want people to leave with?--  What do you want people to do? Call to Action!3-Set goals--  What will equal success?--  Don’t just do something and say Yup! We had a virtual trade show! There’s got to be something measurable.--  If you’re ever investing time and money4-Promote promote promote!--  Social media, email, banner ads, etc.--   Give incentive for people to attend5-Get people to register for the event--  Whether free or if you charge, getting people to register allows you to set your expectations-- Plus once they register, they are more likely to show up--  IDEA – get their physical address and send them something in the mail ahead of time! Mail out an agenda and maybe a promo item. You have some of those sitting around?6-Find a sponsor or two--  If you’re doing this by yourself, reach out to a vendor or partner and get them to sponsor your event.--  Great promotional opportunity for them, plus helps you do more--  They can sponsor your pre-event or post-event mailing7-Get interactive--  As people join in, call out their name! We love hearing our name, and it lets us know this event is actually live!--  Not just be interactive, but encourage engagement! Give opportunities!--  If you are planning on using the chat feature, make sure you have a moderator monitoring the chat to bring up questions and talking points--  Call out people who ask questions or make good points. If your software allows, open up their mic for a quick discussion or bring them on screen with you.--  Run quizzes, games and polls to get people involved--  Networking opportunities8-Go through it completely with your team ahead of time--  Don’t have the first time you run through be in front of your live audience--  Work through any tech troubles you may have--  Have people tell you if they are engaged or if they want to go do something else--  Are your slides or graphics easy to see and read? Less words per page, more pics  9-Know your tech!!--  What features are you planning on using? There are so many available today.--  If you will be having multiple speakers, know how to smoothly go from one person to another.--  Make it super simple for your attendees to register, log in, interact – whatever you want them to do!10-Other fun ideas--  Did your company usually sponsor after hours networking events? You can still have one! --  Can even send out a special box with a bottle of wine or beer ahead of time for them to enjoy during the event!--  If it’s a longer all-day event, send out a boxed lunch to your attendees--  Send out some swag ahead of the event and have drawings for those who wear or...

Ep 037 - The Power the Inquisitive Culture - Your Secret WeaponKatherine Miracle MBA, award-winning Keynote Speaker and Marketer is the Founder and CEO of Miracle Resources. Katherine and her team have created campaigns that have increased revenue and strengthened teams for over 100 brands. Katherine is the Author of 4 books that are used by her 54 trainers in the Brand+Team=Revenue national training program, including her latest book, Inquisitive Culture, which we dive into in this episode. Get Your Copy of Inquisitive Culture here: https://www.amazon.com/Inquisitive-Culture-Communication-Revolution-Challenges/dp/1977223478How to Contact Katherine Miracle:Email: [email protected]: http://www.katherinemiracle.com/Miracle Resources: https://www.miracleresources.com/Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Ep 036 - Coming Out of COVID - Tips for Virtual Events and Why Getting Back to In-Person Shows is Important** This Episode Sponsored by Audible! **Get a Free Audiobook and a Free 30-day Trial by visiting www.audibletrial.com/tradeshowu ---------------------------------------------Let’s talk about what’s happening right now in the Events industry. The events industry is hurting! And there are so many businesses involved when you really think of it.  One big national show can bring business to the convention space, catering, restaurants, transportation, hotels, airlines, parking, and so much more. If we want our economy to truly rebound, then we have got to get back to having in-person trade shows, events, conferences and expos again!I have heard some companies say they really don’t want to exhibit at trade shows going forward because they don’t get the results, and they were able to save a ton of money by not going to a show. If you are not getting the results that’s typically not the fault of the trade show. That means you aren’t planning for or working the shows the right way.If that sounds like you – then contact me right away. Send me an email to [email protected]. Explain your biggest struggle. And just for reaching out I’ll send you my Ultimate Goal Setting Guide for Trade Shows. We as exhibitors need to get better at serving the attendees!Let’s go back to what Trade shows and other events mean to the economy. $101 Billion industry!Airlines, Hotels and Convention Centers are committed to keeping people safe and healthy! They are investing millions into developing new standards, new cleaning products, new procedures, and training their staffs. And you know where probably one of the safest places is in America right now? A hotel room because people haven’t been in them in months!! There’s a great article from Trade Show News Network which goes into great depth on what hotels, convention centers and airlines are doing. Fascinating read and I’ll drop the link to the article in the show notes.https://www.tsnn.com/news/how-hotels-convention-centers-and-airlines-will-keep-travelers-safeSo we need to get back to these in person events not just for the industry, but to help make connections and build relationships. Face to face is where it’s at! Just can’t grab a drink or go to dinner with someone after a Zoom meeting. Plus there are so many other benefits of in-person events.But live events are still at least a few months away. And I know companies that said we are too concerned about our employee’s health and safety to travel for the rest of this year. I get it and totally understand. But please make the commitment in 2021 – if this health crisis is over – to get back to these events. And if you don’t believe the ROI is there for you, and that’s why you’re not going to live events, contact me. I can help double results.But for now, we have a lot of virtual events happening. Many webinars. I can probably fill up most weeks with all of the webinar invites I get. So how do you make the most of Virtual events?As an Exhibitor:·       Learn all about the audience. You have to do an even better job connecting with someone through a screen and maybe you’re reduced to the size of a 3”...

Ep 035 - Answering Listener Questions #2!This Episode brought to you by...My new Podcast - the Bizfire Business Spotlight! It's a unique marketing tool for amazing Small Businesses!Go to IWantTheSpotlight.com to see all you get, and to check out a sample podcast episode.Type TRADESHOW in the Offer Code box for 25% OFF!!----------------------------------------------------Question #1 – I’ve only exhibited at one show, and got few legitimate leads. I don’t think I want to try again.o  Did you have any specific goals, and a way you were going to reach those goals? If not, this is where you need to start. You have to have a plan, and You get what you measure! o  Were you at the right show? Many times we pick the wrong show with the wrong audience and we do end up wasting valuable time and money.o  If you had the right show, and had set goals, then time to look at you and your staff. Were you engaging? Did you do what it took to engage with the right attendees?o  If you have questions like this – send me an email at [email protected] so I can help! Question #2 – I have exhibited at several Senior Expos and Health Fairs? Seems like this is just a trick or treat for attendees and they don’t want to learn about what we offer – they just want the free stuff and don’t feel they need what we offer. What would you recommend?·       Every show definitely has its share of trick or treaters. That’s ok – just let them have your stuff! ·       But make them work for it! I will get you our giveaway, but you have to answer one question: Qualify them!·       There are three ways to get people’s attention:o  Emotiono  Logico  Fear - this may be the way to go Question #3 – Often difficult to get in front of the right contact. Waste so much time in the follow up.·       This is a great question, and I’m sure most if not all of us have experienced this.·       After the show you’re excited to follow up with the people you met at the show and you get “Not interested” or “I’m going to have to run this past my boss.”o  Make sure they are the decision maker or part of the decision making processo  One simple question at the show will help you.o  Ask – where do you fall in the decision making process? This is much better than asking “Are you the decision maker” because they may not want to admit that they aren’t.o  Their options may be I’m the lone decision maker, I’m part of a decision making team, I’m gathering information for the decision makers, I’m not part at all.o  If they answer I’m gathering information or I’m not part, then ask – who is the person I need to speak to?·       So the best way to get in front of the right contact is to ask the attendee if they are the right contact, or who that contact is. Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast....

Ep 034 - The Potential of Account Based Marketing for greater Trade Show Results!Carman Pirie is the co-founder of Kula Partners, an agency that helps leading B2B manufacturers craft digital experiences that transform how they engage buyers, serve customers, and outpace their competition online. He’s also the co-host of The Kula Ring podcast for manufacturing marketers. Combining three decades of marketing and communications experience with a distaste for the ordinary, Carman joins us to share unique insights on B2B marketing and sales.Carman's Top Tips:- Know who you want to sell to before you start- Trade shows start before they start and end well after they end- Don't ignore digital lead capture along with tightly aligned sales enablement and marketing automation- Getting good at taking an account-based approach to trade shows makes you less reliant on trade shows Carman's top 2 takeaways for the listeners: - Get really good at trade shows so you may possibly need them less- Account Based Marketing = better marketing & sales alignment Contact Carman and to learn more:Visit: https://kulapartners.com/Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Episode 033 – Top 8 Tips for Efficiency and EffectivenessYou want to get more leads, more sales, do more demos? Then get more efficient!!1.    Bring a tote of fix-it items2.    Take pics of all show docs and keep in phone, as well as contact info for show contacts3.    Consider using a Brand Ambassador4.    Memorize a scriptFrom the opening questions to the quick description of your company or product, you should know what to say and say it the same way each time. This will help you be more efficient and not ramble on.And have short, quick answers to popular questions. This takes planning and practice! It’s much easier to give long, rambling answers. Takes time to create short, succinct answers and statements. But it’s worth it!5.    Ask someone’s name and then Use it6.    Learn about the attendee first7.    Avoid small talk8.    Keep good notesLast thing you want is to get back after a show with just a business card or contact info without any detail.Whether its writing on back of a card, or in your lead retrieval program or however you’re collecting info, make good notes!Special FREE Offer!!Go to tradeshowu.biz right on the home page, sign up for our newsletter and I’ll send you at no charge my Ultimate Goal Setting for Trade Shows Workbook!Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Trade Show Exhibitors are getting targeted for scams every day! If you're an exhibitor, know that you have a big target on your back for scammers!In this episode I discuss some common Trade Show Scams and How to Avoid ThemHotel Room BookingEmail List SalesCharitable causesMentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversityFree Video Training - How to pick the Right Trade ShowFree Video Training - How to Pick the Right Trade Show! Or, if you have already selected a show...How to know if it is the Right Trade Show for your business. You have too much on the line to select the Wrong show!! I give you the 7 Questions you NEED to ask to be confident you have selected the right show! To get immediate access, go to tradeshowu.biz and sign up for the email newsletter right on the home page! That's it! Tradeshowu.biz

Episode 031 - Mastering and Understanding Emotions & Facial Coding for Trade Show Success!Interview with Dan Hill, PhD, owner of Sensory Logic, author of 8 different books, and emotions expert who has appeared on Fox News, NPR, USA Today, and dozens more media outlets.How to contact Dan Hill:https://www.sensorylogic.com (website)https://emotionswizard.com (Faces of the Week blog series)[email protected] (company-based training sessions)Phone: 651 434 9285Linked in – https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-hill-emotionswizard/https://www.sensorylogic.com (website) https://emotionswizard.com (blog series) [email protected] (company-based training sessions) 651 434 9285 Linked in – https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-hill-emotionswizard/Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Ep. 030 – Sponsoring – What to Do and What to Avoid *** Sign up for the Trade Show U weekly newsletter and get special weekly Pro Tips that will make a difference in your business, be able to listen to episodes ahead of everyone else, and get notified of new tools, giveaways and challenges!Head over to www.TradeShowU.biz, scroll down the home page, and enter your name and email! Easy peasy!! ***Let’s dive in to today’s topic which is Doing Sponsoring RIGHT!Before I get started going through the various types of sponsorships available, you need to figure out why you want to invest in sponsoring at a show. How will your company benefit? What are your goals? Sponsorship opportunities can be from cheap to expensive, but most are usually a lot of money relatively speaking. You could actually spend more on a sponsorship than you do for your booth space! So before you pick type of sponsorship you need to figure out why.There are Three main reasons why you should sponsor. To support the organization putting on the eventFor marketing purposesFor brandingIf you choose to sponsor for marketing or branding, then you need to figure out how to set goals and measure your ROI. Also – is the audience at this show your ideal target audience? If no, or you’re not sure, then you can be throwing money away on marketing to people who will not be buying from you. Invest your sponsorship money at shows that have the most of your ideal customers and prospects there.Also important:What all are you getting for your sponsorship dollars? How will the show be supporting you? Will they be also mentioning your sponsorship on their website, in the show program, on signage at the show, or in pre-show and post-show marketing?NOW...take time to think about the shows you have been to. Think about the sponsorships you have seen or remember. Maybe a company sponsored a lunch or networking event. Or the logo you find on the lanyards everyone is wearing. And there’s so many more. Which made an impact? Do you remember the sponsors? Did they do anything special?Now if you have committed to sponsoring at an event, here are the things you MUST consider and implement to maximize your results. If doing a product – lanyards, show bags, water bottles, etc. – make sure its something that will get a lot of impressions. Everyone wears lanyards, and most people will be carrying around the show bags so your logo will be seen a lot during and after the show. Pass on water bottles or any other consumable or things that will be discarded.If doing an event – like sponsoring a lunch, dinner or networking event – make sure you have the opportunity to address the people in the event, to thank them for coming, and to give...

Episode 029 - Tips for Networking Like a ProInterview with Kelsey Loushin, Owner of Eldercare Professionals of OhioContact Kelsey:Call Kelsey at 440-212-4987E-mail [email protected]  She can be reached through her website, www.eldercareofohio.com. Facebook group and twitter at kelseyloushinMentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Episode 028 – Virtual Trade Show Options - The Lockdown EpisodeEverything has shifted in the trade show and event world. We’re a world in lockdown and trade shows are all postponed for a few months.You need to make up for the lost opportunities from not being able to go to one or multiple shows, what options are there?-----------------------------------------If you’re a small business or you want someone to bounce ideas off of or brainstorm, reach out to me and we can jump on a zoom call together. My years of experience can help you explore new and innovative ideas! Send me an email at [email protected] to inquire or get a session scheduled!-----------------------------------------First – make a commitment that you will not let this set you back! Yes, the opportunity to get in front of your customers and prospects at the trade show was taken away for now, but all that means is that you need to get creative in figuring out new ways to get in front of those customers and prospects! So no matter how you do it, just do it!Reach out to the show management of the shows that were cancelled or postponed. Ask if they have any resources available to exhibitors like – ·       registration list·       exhibitor list (if it’s not already on the show website)·       opportunities to reach the registered attendees like email blasts, advertising, webinars or virtual workshopsSo start there. These organizations want to keep you as engaged as possible so you stay an exhibitor when the show is rescheduled.VIRTUAL OPTIONS:-- A virtual walk-through of your trade show exhibit. The user will lead the experience, choosing to view the information on the products or services that are of interest to them, and being able to ask questions or even chat real time. -- A more simple self-guided tour. Create an intro video welcoming people and letting them know what they can experience. Then have separate videos for them to click on to see all you have to offer.  Do product demos just like you would at a show. This can be very simple if you already have videos, or you can quickly pull some together and have a new web page designed.-- Set up your booth just like you would at a show, set up a camera or your phone, and do a live interactive event on FB Live, YouTube live or other social platform. Do a ton of pre-marketing to get people registered and there when you go live. Have some presentations ready to go through, and take questions from the viewers. -- Create one video going through everything at once. It can be effective, but its not interactive, and unless the videos are short or super engaging, then you’ll have people drop off after 5-10 minutes on average. -- Reach out to key vendors or partner companies to do something together. This will also give you the opportunity to reach a wider audience as you can combine your in-house lists and followers on social media.If you were scheduled to give a presentation, lead a workshop or be a member on a panel, then get that information out to your audience! Turn your presentation or workshop into a webinar, or record yourself giving that presentation or workshop and get the video out there. If you were supposed to be on a panel, reach out to the other panelists and see if you can do the panel virtually via a zoom meeting, fb live, Instagram TV or whatever platform your target audience uses! Repurpose content you already have developed. This can be webinars, videos, white papers,...

Episode 027 – Giving Presentations that SIZZLE – Top Tips from Bridgett McGowenBridgett is an award-winning international professional speaker; a 2019-2020 Forbes Coaches Council official member; the owner of BMcTALKS Press, an independent publishing company; and the founder and owner of BMcTALKS Academy where she helps professionals be the most engaging, dynamic, incredible communicators ever! ** Special Offer!! **Get 20% off your AUTOGRAPHED copy of any of Bridgett’s books: ·      Show Up and Show Out: 52 Communication Habits to Make You Unforgettable ·      REAL TALK: What Other Experts Won’t Tell You About How to Make Presentations That Sizzle·      Rise and Sizzle: Daily Communication and Presentation Strategies for Sales, Business, and Higher Ed Pros·      Own the Microphone: How More Than 50 of the World's Best Professional Speakers Launched Their Careers (And How You Can, Too!) Visit www.bmctalks.com/store and enter coupon code POWER at checkout to receive 20% off.Bridgett’s top tips for Trade Show U listeners:  --- In your presentation, give everyone a reason to lean in and listen to you.  --- Immediately solve a mystery, answer a question, and tell them what they will know or be able to do as as result of listening to you, and do all of this before you even say your name.  --- At your booth, listen more than you speak, and use the acronym B.I.G. when you talk to trade show goers:  Find out what’s the other person’s line of BUSINESS and what BREAKTHROUGHS they’ve had at the conference, what INFORMATION have they gotten that INSPIRES them, and what are their GOALS.  --- Work not to sell people anything, but work to have a conversation that leads to the start of a relationship. --- Make every interaction the most important one of your...

Episode 026 – Tips & Tricks to Rock Your Booth Placement Booth placement and selection is just like real estate - it's all about Location, Location, Location! But isn't there more to it than that? Absolutely!Here’s some valuable Tips for selection and placement of any size booth – whether you have a small 10 x 10 or table top, all the way up to a large stand-alone booth.  --- Get as close to the main entrance as possible – or any entrance if there’s multiple. This will increase your opportunities for strong attendee flow--- Know your choices and be flexible. Say you were planning on a larger booth but the only spaces left were near the back of the show. But by going with a smaller booth you can get a much better location. Is this an option for you? May be worth it.--- Other good choices would be near where traffic is likely to flow – food vendors or dining areas, breakout rooms, or even restrooms. Just know that typically people have other things on their minds – like grabbing lunch – than stopping by your booth. So be prepared to grab their attention!--- If you have a smaller booth like a 10 x 10 where there are many right next to each other in a row, try to select a spot at the end where you are on a corner and again have more opportunities for traffic flow coming from two directions--- Make sure you are not right next to your competitors!--- Understand where barriers in the room may affect you – like large support columns. I’ve seen booths get nearly blocked from sight by one direction of traffic.--- Avoid if possible the perimeter rows of a show – those booths that are in the very last rows on either end, and also those that are in the far back of the show. These will get less traffic, that’s just a fact. I would rather get a booth that is further back but still in the middle rows than one closer to the front on the end rows. As the show goes on and especially on the last day or hours of a show, traffic can be virtually non-existent in these rows.So what do you do if your only choice is one of these less desirable booth locations? Other possibilities:--- Sometimes sponsors can get advance booth selection or preferred spaces--- Some shows can put booths together by industry, product type or market. That way attendees can go right to the section of exhibitors that best meets their needs. If you get stuck with a poor booth in your main category, may want to consider switching to a different or secondary category in order to snag a better booth spot.Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

A Prayer for the Trade Show IndustryDuring this incredibly tough time of the Coronavirus pandemic where every trade show, event, conference and expo has been cancelled or postponed, so many people are out of work.And they need our prayers.So we're praying.Please listen in and pray along.Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Episode 025 - Creating Real MAGIC in Your Show Booth - with Magician Scott Tokar!Scott Tokar is a multi-award winning magician that specializes in tradeshow and sales meeting "corporate-magic”. He is the founder of the tradeshow magic group known as "Corporate-Fx”. Since 1992 Scott has helped scores of companies big and small consistently DOUBLE their quantifiable exhibit metrics at tradeshows around the globe. Scott's unique form of presentation focuses on gathering crowds in a booth, explaining the exhibitor’s sales messages in a cleaver and memorable way, and then delivering an actionable step to collect the leads for follow-up after a show. You can say Scott's real trick is making an exhibit the most memorable both on a tradeshow floor.How to Contact Scott:Website: www.CorporateFx.comPhone: 1.800.MAGIC.13Instagram @ScottTokarMentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Is This the End of Trade Shows?Will Trade Shows and Events ever be the same?www.TradeShowU.bizMentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

Ep. 023: LinkedIn Mastery for Businesses and Trade Shows! With Heather Taylor----------------------------------------------SPECIAL PROMO OFFER!! LinkedIn Profile Optimization & OverhaulMention Trade Show University and receive $20 off!!----------------------------------------------Heather is the Boss Lady and Social Media Chick with GlitterGirl Media. She works with business professionals and entrepreneurs to help them stand out in the vast social media crowd, understand the importance of keywords and creative content when posting and to use LinkedIn as an unparalleled lead generation and sales tool.Q: What is your experience relating to trade shows? I help business professionals use LinkedIn to keep track of their trade show contacts, create a proven, repeatable process for generating leads and convert connections to real life living, breathing clients.So important to use LinkedIn to keep in touch with leads, customers and contacts. LinkedIn will help get the most bang for your buck at shows and events.Very few people use LinkedIn the way it should be! It’s more than just a place to have your resume. Not enough to just “be” on LinkedIn, but use it as a valuable tool.Q: How exactly should we use LinkedIn at shows?Most get a lead or make a contact at a show, we connect with them on LinkedIn, and that’s the end of it. We need to use LinkedIn to stay in touch, see what their interests are, and how we can best serve them. So the value of LinkedIn lasts long after the show. It’s a living, breathing tool but only has life if you continue to feed it!Most people only use LinkedIn on average of 17 minutes a month. If you give it the time and spend an hour a week, you will be far ahead of the average, and build relationships with meaning.It costs nothing to be on LinkedIn. They offer their paid upgrade service, but do not recommend doing it! So keep it free!Use LinkedIn to promote your personal and professional brand.Reach out to congratulate.Give recommendations and secure endorsements.Use for Social Selling – in the right way! Don’t be pushy.Q: How important is your LinkedIn profile? It is so incredibly important. It’s what you LEAD with. It is your “face” and the first thing people see. It should be worded from a “reader’s” perspective, and geared exactly to your ideal client.Have it read like a story. Every line should tell the value you bring.Don’t have it tell your qualifications or just...