Job fairs and trade shows are very important events for any growing business. Job fairs can help a company recruit qualified personnel through direct interaction and on-the-spot interviews, whilst trade shows give time for companies to interact with colleagues and other companies within their industry, as well as attracting the attention of potential new customers. Both of these exhibitions can be extremely competitive, so it’s important to make your business stand out as much as possible. Some of the tried-and-true methods include pop up displays which showcase new and upcoming products, tutorials about intended uses and the way they work, and feature general information about the company, including company history, with a large-print version of the company’s logo or trademark.
Solid representation from someone within the company is also necessary. At a job fair, HR personnel should be on hand to conduct interviews and process initial paperwork, and managerial staff representing the departments which have vacancies to fill should be available for dialogue as well. At trade shows, a company spokesperson should be present to provide support and add to the professional presentation, and if the company is a small or medium-sized business, interaction with the CEO of the company is beneficial as well.
It’s highly probable that your competition will be employing the above techniques, so these are the minimum requirements to compete at a job fair or trade show. Other techniques to help you stand out include giving out free samples, running a raffle or giveaway, and if the event allows, having a dedicated question and answer time with a formal presentation. If this is the case, a well-crafted speech and presentation will help your company stand out. You should verbally communicate the company’s mission, history, and any current or upcoming products, mergers, and other relevant company news.
Your company’s website should announce the event well in advance, including all relevant information to attract customers or job seekers, (such as who will be there to answer questions) and clearly stating the reason your company plans to attend. If the event has a website, ensure that your company is on the list of attendees, and if possible, get a full page advertising your company’s attendance. This may come at an expense, so allow for this in your company’s advertising budget.
Trade shows, job fairs, and other exhibitions are very important to the strategic growth and vitality of a company. Those who capitalize on such attention are in a position to stay at the forefront of the industry, acquire the best new employees, and maintain a transparency and a dialogue with colleagues and consumers that would not otherwise be possible. No matter what industry your company is in, it’s important to be represented by the industry, and exhibitions allow for this in the best way possible.