The Event Prep Mistakes that Cause Last-Minute Panic

AND HOW TO MAKE THE DAY A SUCCESS!

There is a lot that goes into prepping for an exhibition and I should know! Not only have I been the kids' zone host for the Clean and Tidy Home Show, London Pet Show Live and Home, Life and You but for many years, I have been selling my books and services at the Childcare and Education Expo and Nursery World Show as well as little shows in churches and schools.

I have got better as the years have gone by.

Most mistakes made are in the run up to the event and not on the day itself.

The good news is most of them are preventable.

Leaving the small jobs until the morning of the event

• Print QR codes

• Charge your devices

• Pack your spare cables

• Refill stock (if selling something)

On their own, they seem like quick jobs but when you add them up.

Forgetting the "business stuff"

So we know you need business cards and leaflets if you share them, but items you probably need items to make sure your stand looks great and is functionable.

• tape

• blu tak

• scissors

• pens

• paper

• notebook

• table cloth

• treats or give aways to start a conversation

Not having "an event kit"

Okay, so you will need the usual like the batteries and business cards, but what about you?

• wipes/hand sanitiser

• snacks

• water

• painkillers

• deodorant

Randomly hoping for success

Having a vision of what you want from the event is very important.

Before the event have measurable KPI'S (Key Performance Indicators) that you'd like to see how successful the event has gone.

They could be:

• Gain 18 email subscribers

• Book 3 consultation calls

• Get 50 more followers on Instagram

• Sell 20 books

When you know what they are, it is easier to plan what to do on the day.

My QR code leads to a free download giving them value, then it leads to an automated email chain to keep them informed, updated and so I am in their radar. I hate receiving too many emails so I keep that in mind.

The QR code also enters them into a competition. I announce the winner on my Instagram page which also helps up my followers.

More than that, I use a special notebook to take qualified leads of people who I have had interesting conversations with who have expressed an interest in my workshops or services. I give them a much more personal approach.