Episoder

  • Innovative New Product entrepreneur and small business owner, Lauren McLaughlin of ChangeUp Kids (https://www.changeupkids.com), shares her story of how she found huge success at her very first BIG Trade Show! Her product for Parents of Kids was perfect for the Event she chose.

    ** Want More LEADS, More SALES and More PROFITS at your next Trade Show?

    Book a free 15-minute strategy call here: https://calendly.com/tradeshowu

    Lauren is a mom of three adventurous boys, and we are constantly on the go. I always desired a place for them to get changed with privacy without having them go into public bathrooms after a sandy day at the beach.

    Change Up Kids is a portable changing station that gives kids and families Dignity, Privacy and Convenience.

    Lauren attended the MomCon expo (https://www.momcon.co/) for a couple of years as an attendee and saw this event as the perfect place to launch her new product. Thousands of moms attend each year.

    She realized being at the right show wasn't enough, so reached out to Jim Cermak of Trade Show University. Jim coached her as she prepared for MomCon and the 5,000 moms that were going to be there. She ultimately made changes to her signage, displays, offers, and engagement questions.

    You will love her energy and her story as she shares what worked well and what needs to be improved for the next show!

    Connect with Lauren:

    ChangeUp Kids: https://www.changeupkids.com/Email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/change_up_kids/

    Training Videos & Tips - Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

    Email Jim: [email protected]

  • Today you are going to learn from an Award Winning event and marketing manager about Goal Setting, Sourcing, Networking and more. So excited to have Laura Woods, Event and Marketing Manager for Jamis Software join Jim Cermak, host and founder of Trade Show University for this impactful interview.

    ** Want More LEADS, More SALES and More PROFITS at your next Trade Show?

    Book a free 15-minute strategy call here: https://calendly.com/tradeshowu

    Laura and Jim discuss:

    Goal Clarity for Event Success: Like trade show exhibitors, event planners must define clear goals for each event to ensure smooth execution and meaningful outcomes. "If you don't have a clear goal, the event is not going to run smoothly."

    Leveraging the Power of Networking: Facilitating connections between attendees is crucial for a successful event. Woods highlights the importance of dedicated networking time, icebreaker activities, and creating an environment that encourages interaction. "That's the lifeline of events is the connections in the networking."

    Sourcing for Success: Woods emphasizes the need for strategic venue selection, considering factors like attendee location, accessibility, cultural relevance, and adequate space. "You need to make sure you have enough space and hotel rooms."

    Continuous Feedback and Improvement: Pre- and post-event surveys provide invaluable feedback for improving future events. Woods encourages event planners to be receptive to criticism and to view feedback as an opportunity for growth. "Never take anything to heart of what you get back from these surveys."

    Theming and Engagement: Creating a memorable event with a strong theme enhances the attendee experience. Woods shares examples of incorporating popular culture references and aligning the theme with the event's purpose.

    Connect with Laura:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurab90/

    Email: [email protected]

    Email Jim: [email protected]

    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

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  • You're an exhibitor working a trade show or conference when all of a sudden, the traffic stops. What happened to the Attendees? Where is everyone? What do you do? I'm going to give you 8 TIPS you need to make the most of the slow times! 8 of them to be exact!

    ** Please SUBSCRIBE to the Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity **

    So when the show gets slow, what i see is people pulling out their phones and start scrolling. Please stop that! When attendees start coming around again, they won't want to stop at your booth.

    So here's what you do - create a strategy!

    So that means before you go to the show, you have to do your research and figure out what you are going to do when the show is slow. And for those of you at larger shows in the end aisles and the back corners, that means when the show opens! You may not see anyone for a while!

    So before I go into the 8 things I recommend being prepared to do when the show is slow, you have to find and research the show floor layout. This is NEEDED for the first 3 Tips:

    #1 - Look for booths that can be potential customers

    #2 - Look for competitors - spy on them

    #3 - Look for potential vendors or suppliers - reach out to purchasing and see what their needs are.

    #4 - What breakout sessions should you attend?

    Anything else you do before the show? Drop that in the comments. And please subscribe if you're getting value!

    #5 - Have someone walk the floor and take pics of other booths for ideas - design, activations, more

    #6 - Review with your team goals, scripts, and roles

    #7 - Make time to network!

    #8 - Give people breaks!

    ** Want More LEADS, More SALES and More PROFITS at your next Trade Show?

    Book a free 15-minute strategy call here: https://calendly.com/tradeshowu

    #strategy #tradeshows #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

  • How to attract More Attendees to your Trade Shows, Conferences and Events, Sell More Tickets, and Keep More Money! Get the Tips on using the right Marketing and Ticket Platform.

    ** Want More LEADS, More SALES and More PROFITS at your next Trade Show?

    Book a free 15-minute strategy call here: https://tradeshowu.biz/services

    Join Jim Cermak of Trade Show University and Ashley Stanford, a Digital Marketing Consultant and Freelancing Expert. With 20 years of experience in the digital marketing space, she specializes in building strategic marketing plans, mapping strategy execution, and collaborating to optimize tactics that drive increased performance for clients in the Events & Entertainment space. Her app Ice Cream Social is backed by Comcast NBCUniversal SportsTech, which invested in the company in early 2022.

    We Discuss:

    Effective Event MarketingWhat should organizers consider when choosing a ticketing platform?What are the most effective ways to boost ticket sales for trade shows? How to make sure the right audience attends?Trends in the trade show industry that planners and exhibitors should keep an eye on?

    Ashley's Top Takeaway:

    The importance of choosing a flexible ticketing system that aligns with their trade show's needs, combined with effective marketing and networking strategies, to drive attendance and maximize the value of their event. The message should be that strategic decisions in both technology and personal interactions are key to a successful trade show experience.

    Connect with Ashley Stanford:

    [email protected] AshleyNStanford.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashstanford/

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Exhibitor Expert Review - exclusively from Trade Show University

    Ready to exhibit at your next Show? Don’t make the mistake of waiting until you get to the show to learn lessons on what you can do better and tweaks you can make for next time. You can do that BEFORE this next show and accelerate your results!I can help you get locked in for Success with an Expert Review!• Having a professional set of outside "eyes" is important because You Don't Know what You Don't Know!• 30+ year Trade Show expert will review:o Designo Messagingo Goals & Metricso Engagement Questionso Attendee journey• Identify the Gaps and Opportunities you don’t even know exist!• And get you capturing more Qualified Leads than ever before• Visit Tradeshowu.biz/services

  • Should you buy or rent the exhibit for your next Trade Show, Conference or Event? What's the ROI? This is a top question for big and Small Business across the US and Europe.

    ** Want More LEADS, More SALES and More PROFITS at your next Trade Show?

    Book a free 15-minute strategy call here: https://tradeshowu.biz/services

    We're going to break it down with great tips and advice from Chris Dunn, VP of Sales & Business Development with BlueHive Exhibits who has been in the industry for 30 years.

    We discuss:

    -- When does it make sense to buy compared to rent?

    -- When is the breakeven ROI for buying versus renting?

    -- What type of Exhibit program is a good candidate for renting?

    -- Case Studies and more!

    Chris's Top Tips:

    -- When selecting an exhibit partner, like an exhibit house or an agency, make sure that you choose someone that you trust not only for where you’re at currently but also where you want to go and how you want to grow

    -- Be open to exploring options on both the purchase and rental side to get the best combination that works for your Exhibit program

    -- Create and understand a complete exhibit calendar that includes both sizes, show dates, locations and goals. Work with your partner to handle overlapping situations or an outlier space as a for instance.

    Special Offer from Chris and BlueHive:

    BlueHive is happy to offer a 30 minute no charge tradeshow program audit

    Contact Chris Dunn:

    -- Email: [email protected]

    -- Website: www.bluehive.com

    -- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisjdunn1/

    Weekly Tips, Training and More! Register for our Newsletter at www.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

    Create Amazing Memorable Events with Michael Green Food & Wine Experiences!

    MICHAEL GREEN CREATES AND HOSTS WINE AND FOOD EXPERIENCES THAT BUILD RELATIONSHIPS AND DRIVE SALES.FROM CONFERENCES TO OFFISTES, MICHAEL'S HIGH ENERGY PRESENTATIONS ARE INFORMATIVE, HIGHLY ENTERTAINING AND RESONATE FOR YEARS TO COME. Find out why CMO firm Chief Outsiders said…Michael does much more than develop events – he creates memorable experiences for his clients and their guests. His expertise spanned all elements from planning to execution. What made the events truly special and memorable were Michael’s knowledge, experience, contacts, and flair. He not only made us look good, he ensured we remained relevant in the eyes of our guests throughout the evening. LOOKING FOR A WAY TO STAND OUT AT YOUR NEXT CONFERENCE OR INCREASE YOUR CONFERENCE ROI?GO TO WWW.MICHAELGREEN.COM TO LEARN MORE. Mention you heard this ad on the Trade Show University podcast!

  • AI continues to evolve, and there are more tools available than ever.  

    So let's learn what we can do to improve our events by hearing from one of the top experts in the industry!  

    Proud to have join me Anca Trifan of Tree-Fan Events to discuss everything AI and events!

    We also discuss:

    How is AI changing the game when it comes to corporate events?How can AI-driven insights and analytics be used?What is Anca hearing or seeing about meetings becoming more inclusive?What new trends are appearing?And more!

    Learn more and connect with Anca Trifan! https://ai.treefanevents.com/

    ** Want More LEADS, More SALES and More PROFITS at your next Trade Show?

    Book a free 15-minute strategy call here: https://tradeshowu.biz/services

  • Don't let a small or cut budget stop you from Rocking your next Trade Show, Expo or Event!

    Join Trade Show University host, Jim Cermak, and his guest, Rich Rodrigues, a Trade Show Troubadour and Account Executive with EDE - full-service trade show and event management company.

    ** Watch the Video of this interview! https://youtu.be/-s--TsZ_PGQ

    We discuss:

    - What to do when your budget is cut

    - Creative ideas to make the most of your events

    - Maximizing the opportunities with bigger event crowds and attendees

    - What are Micro events and how they can help grow your brand

    - The importance of #community

    - And much more!

    Connect with Rich Rodrigues - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-rodrigues/

    ** Want More LEADS, More SALES and More PROFITS at your next Trade Show? Let's Talk!

    Book a free 15-minute strategy call here: https://tradeshowu.biz/services

    ** Join the Trade Show University weekly update newsletter: https://tradeshowu.biz

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Exhibitor Expert Review - exclusively from Trade Show University

    Ready to exhibit at your next Show? Don’t make the mistake of waiting until you get to the show to learn lessons on what you can do better and tweaks you can make for next time. You can do that BEFORE this next show and accelerate your results!I can help you get locked in for Success with an Expert Review!• Having a professional set of outside "eyes" is important because You Don't Know what You Don't Know!• 30+ year Trade Show expert will review:o Designo Messagingo Goals & Metricso Engagement Questionso Attendee journey• Identify the Gaps and Opportunities you don’t even know exist!• And get you capturing more Qualified Leads than ever before• Visit Tradeshowu.biz/services

  • Ready to multiply the opportunities you get from your next trade show? Then you've got to learn how to effectively network with others! Your best leads an opportunities will come from people you personally know, so let's get to know more of them!

    Here's my Top 10 Networking Tips for when you are at a Trade Show, and specifically when you are an exhibitor!

    1 - Have a go-to question you use every time.

    2 - Prep your quick pitch.

    3 - Take advantage of networking opportunities.

    4 - Bring business cards with you!

    5 - At the show, network with the people at all the booths around you!

    6 - When you are outside the show, look for other people wearing badges from your show!

    7 - Stay at the host hotel, or at least hang out there!

    8 - Don't be afraid of small talk.

    9 - Be a good listener and ask good follow up questions!

    10 - Be sure to Follow up with each person you meet!

    ******************

    Check out the Trade Show University YouTube Channel for exclusive video trainings and tips!  https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Exhibitor Expert Review - exclusively from Trade Show University

    Ready to exhibit at your next Show? Don’t make the mistake of waiting until you get to the show to learn lessons on what you can do better and tweaks you can make for next time. You can do that BEFORE this next show and accelerate your results!I can help you get locked in for Success with an Expert Review!• Having a professional set of outside "eyes" is important because You Don't Know what You Don't Know!• 30+ year Trade Show expert will review:o Designo Messagingo Goals & Metricso Engagement Questionso Attendee journey• Identify the Gaps and Opportunities you don’t even know exist!• And get you capturing more Qualified Leads than ever before• Visit Tradeshowu.biz/services

  • So if you've been wondering about AI, you've been wondering about the metaverse and what it all means for our events and our trade shows, listen to this episode.

    Danny Stefanic is CEO and Founder of the Hyperspace Metaverse Platform. He is renowned for creating the world’s first metaverse and is considered a pioneer in the Metaverse for Business field, having been involved in the creation of ground-breaking 3D businesses for over 30 years.

    We Discuss:

    The transformative power of VR/AR in revolutionizing tradeshowsAI-powered avatarsWhat is an "inverted online tradeshow"?Why should every tradeshow go hybrid in 2024 and beyond?How can tradeshow professionals leverage AI?Do you need an army of programmers to make this work?How fast can I add a virtual component to my tradeshow?

    Special Offer!

    Everyone that signs up for a live demo through this link (https://hyperspace.mv/tradeshow) will get a FREE tradeshow space to experiment with so they can see what's possible for themselves.

    Connect with Danny Stefanic & Experience Hyperspace:

    Email: [email protected]: https://hyperspace.mvLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/exitreality/Schedule Guided Platform Tour: https://hyperspace.mv/tradeshowInteract With Our AI-Powered Virtual Tradeshow Booth: https://app.learnbrite.com/dashboard/spaces/visit/spc720f7195a97ba0ada482d5
  • We're about to turn the trade show world upside down. I am honored to have on a phenomenal guest today who is an author, speaker, and the founder of Total Life Freedom, where he helps people time and money freedom in their life. And today has started Membership Freedom where he's helping businesses develop memberships in all sorts of different niches.

    Welcome Vincent Pugliese to Trade Show University!

    The concept which Vincent is proposing is called The Unconference which focuses not on keynote speakers, workshops, breakout sessions, or a show floor full of exhibitors, but an event laser-focused on making key strategic connections happen among attendees!

    These are connections that happen naturally or serendipitously at trade shows and events, but only in the "in-between" times and out in the hallways.

    Now The Unconference is designed to make more of those connections happen and happen more powerfully! It's happening in Sarasota FL, Feb 3-5, 2025.

    To learn more about The UnConference - visit https://totallifefreedom.kartra.com/page/unconferenceapplication

    For more info on Membership Freedom, visit https://mymembershipfreedom.com/

    To connect with Vincent: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-pugliese/

    To get a FREE copy of the Wealth of Connection audiobook: https://totallifefreedom.kartra.com/page/wealthofconnectionaudiobook

    ** Want help creating a WINNING strategy for your next Trade Show? Book a free 15-minute strategy call here: https://tradeshowu.biz/services

    ** Join the Trade Show University weekly update newsletter: https://tradeshowu.biz

  • If you are a franchise, a franchisor or a franchisee, you're in the right place today. Especially if you've been looking to figure out how to get better at marketing and trade shows.

    Jim Cermak, trade show consultant and founder of Trade Show University is pleased to interview Susie Liberatore, who is the owner of Visions2Images, a marketing agency with a focus on Franchises.

    Jim and Susie discuss:

    Why Franchises should be using trade showsHow franchises can promote a tradeshowWhy we should consider Franchisees like a local small businessHow to best be prepared and be creative Why Tradeshows are a great investment for brand awarenessAnd so much more

    Connect with Susie Liberatore:

    Visions2Images - https://visions2images.com Franchise Clarity - https://franchise-clarity.comSusie's Personal site - https://susieliberatore.com

    Want help creating your strategy? Book a free 15-minute strategy call here: https://tradeshowu.biz/services

    Join the Trade Show University weekly update newsletter: https://tradeshowu.biz

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Exhibitor Expert Review - exclusively from Trade Show University

    Ready to exhibit at your next Show? Don’t make the mistake of waiting until you get to the show to learn lessons on what you can do better and tweaks you can make for next time. You can do that BEFORE this next show and accelerate your results!I can help you get locked in for Success with an Expert Review!• Having a professional set of outside "eyes" is important because You Don't Know what You Don't Know!• 30+ year Trade Show expert will review:o Designo Messagingo Goals & Metricso Engagement Questionso Attendee journey• Identify the Gaps and Opportunities you don’t even know exist!• And get you capturing more Qualified Leads than ever before• Visit Tradeshowu.biz/services

  • You're thinking about exhibiting at your very first trade show and want to make sure you crush it! But what do you do? For me, having worked and planned 100s of shows, you want to know what I would do?

    There are 6 things you need to do to ensure you will look like a PRO and not a Rookie, and get fantastic results at your very first trade show! Before you even get started, you need to make sure you picked the right show! Check out THIS VIDEO: https://youtu.be/ILcbnClb2Xc?si=utrEz2vq5FizNzN9

    And if you know you picked the right show, here's the 6 things you need to do to get ready for that show so you come back with more leads, sales and profits than if you just go in blind.

    1 - Research the show, and especially the audience!

    2 - Figure out your budget. What will the show cost, and all the expenses around it. Don't be caught off guard!

    3 - Set goals to have success! You want to make money, and if you do it right you can fill your lead pipeline for a long time! But that starts with knowing what you need to accomplish!

    4 - Focus your message to the audience so you attract them to your booth

    5 - Figure the Questions you want to ask to everyone

    6 - Practice! Practice! Practice!

    Now that you know the 6 things you need to do to rock your very first show, click on this video to level up your game even more! https://youtu.be/Nn52LsBmBeE?si=96M7cjOhpWwUMMoW

    Want help creating your strategy? Book a free 15-minute strategy call here: https://tradeshowu.biz/services

    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

  • If you’re a small business, you may have plans to work an upcoming show by yourself or maybe you've done it in the past. Happens with bigger businesses too! And let me tell you, having worked many expos and shows solo, it can be frustrating.

    Here's 9 Tips to help you Survive and Thrive at your next Expo, Event or Trade Show!

    Being by yourself does not allow you to be efficient, maximize your ROI, or put you in the position to get the best results possible.

    The biggest issue is that you can only have indepth discussions with one person at a time.

    Let me give you one big piece of advice – Don’t work by yourself! If at all possible, convince a co-worker, trusted colleague, family member or friend help you out for a few hours or few days. It will definitely be worth it!

    ( 1 ) Set up your booth as early as possible to allow for the unknown.

    ( 2 ) Get to shows early to walk the show floor and meet people.

    ( 3 ) Make friends with people in the booths around you.

    ( 4 ) Simplify and Minimize

    ( 5 ) Use other methods to help capture information and make you more efficient

    ( 6 ) Practice!

    ( 7 ) Get out front of your table/booth

    ( 8 ) Try group presenting

    ( 9 ) Pack snacks, water, mints to help you avoid having to leave your booth

    AND...The next video you NEED to watch so you don't Unknowingly kill your results...

    https://youtu.be/ftHlxygrPFw

    PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHANNEL! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

    IMPROVE YOUR NEXT TRADE SHOW!

    Get a Professional Booth Review or the **RIGHT Training** for your staff: https://tradeshowu.biz/services

    Get the Trade Show University email newsletter for weekly tips, tools, and expert advice to maximize the ROI for your next trade show or event – all for FREE -- Visit https://tradeshowu.biz and drop your email on the home page!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Exhibitor Expert Review - exclusively from Trade Show University

    Ready to exhibit at your next Show? Don’t make the mistake of waiting until you get to the show to learn lessons on what you can do better and tweaks you can make for next time. You can do that BEFORE this next show and accelerate your results!I can help you get locked in for Success with an Expert Review!• Having a professional set of outside "eyes" is important because You Don't Know what You Don't Know!• 30+ year Trade Show expert will review:o Designo Messagingo Goals & Metricso Engagement Questionso Attendee journey• Identify the Gaps and Opportunities you don’t even know exist!• And get you capturing more Qualified Leads than ever before• Visit Tradeshowu.biz/services

  • Travel Tips and Advice for getting to your next Trade Show or Event from Michael Lynn, Retired Air Force member who transported Presidents, Dignitaries and World Leaders, and is the author of the book Travel Etiquette.

    Michael joins host Jim Cermak, trade show coach and founder of Trade Show University in this enlightening interview!

    We discuss:

    Preparation / Before you go.How to get through TSA faster / better.Boarding tipsSome of the Do's and Dont's of air travelThe "Elephant" in the PlaneAnd much more!

    Connect with Michael Lynn:

    Email - [email protected] - https://linkedin.com/in/mikelynnspeaks

    IMPROVE YOUR NEXT TRADE SHOW!

    Get a Professional Booth Review or the **RIGHT Training** for your staff: https://tradeshowu.biz/services

    Get the Trade Show University email newsletter for weekly tips, tools, and expert advice to maximize the ROI for your next trade show or event – all for FREE!

    -- Visit https://tradeshowu.biz and drop your email on the home page!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Exhibitor Expert Review - exclusively from Trade Show University

    Ready to exhibit at your next Show? Don’t make the mistake of waiting until you get to the show to learn lessons on what you can do better and tweaks you can make for next time. You can do that BEFORE this next show and accelerate your results!I can help you get locked in for Success with an Expert Review!• Having a professional set of outside "eyes" is important because You Don't Know what You Don't Know!• 30+ year Trade Show expert will review:o Designo Messagingo Goals & Metricso Engagement Questionso Attendee journey• Identify the Gaps and Opportunities you don’t even know exist!• And get you capturing more Qualified Leads than ever before• Visit Tradeshowu.biz/services

  • Small Businesses have to STOP Wasting Money on Trade Show and Event Sponsorships! In fact, businesses of ALL sizes need to do this!

    I know I'm going to ruffle some feathers here, but stick with me.

    I'm NOT telling you to Stop sponsoring, but to do them right! I'm going to give you the 3 ways to fix your sponsorships so you get the maximum return!

    Look I'm not against sponsorships - they help fund the events and can be a tremendous investment. Problem is Most companies that invest in sponsorships at trade shows, conferences and events don't know how to get an ROI.

    First things first - you have to know your reason for sponsoring in the first place! Maybe it's to support the show or the association in some way, and this is how you choose to do it. Fantastic!

    Maybe the show is offering some added freebies or bonuses to sponsors, and you feel it's worth it. Okay great!

    But maybe you're investing in a sponsorship to get your company name, logo and brand in front of a bunch of attendees and exhibitors. You are who I am talking to today.

    Think about this - sponsoring something like a lanyard or a tote bag everyone gets definitely gets your logo out there in a big way! And some people even keep these things!

    But ask yourself - have you ever bought from a company, or even changed your perception of a company, because their logo was on a lanyard or backpack? If you want to support the show or association putting on the show, then go ahead and sponsor the lanyard, the backpack, the disposable water bottles, or the other products.

    Then there's sponsoring events inside the events - lunches, breakout sessions, after-hours networking events. For most of these events I attend, even while in the middle of them I can't tell you who the sponsor is.

    Okay - so what do you do? What is a good sponsorship? HERE'S YOUR 3 TIPS!

    1 - Look for a sponsorship that will bring attendees to your booth. Bingo Card, Scavenger Hunt. But do it right!

    2 - If you sponsor an event - lunch, networking event - make sure you maximize your branding AND get everyone's attention by either speaking from stage, or having a team of people going around and spreading your brand.

    3 - If you sponsor a product - have a message on the product to bring that product to your booth for a free gift.

    Want to MAX the ROI on your Sponsorships?? Let's jump on a FREE Discovery Call!

    -- Go to tradeshowu.biz/services and click on the blue "Book My Discovery Call" button!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Powerful Data Analytics with BearIQ from Bear Analytics

    I want to take a second to cover one of the hottest topics in the events industry right now:Data AnalyticsIf you are a show organizer, you’re probably trying to gain a leg up on how to return torevenue.One company leading the charge for growing events is Bear Analytics.With their cutting-edge platform, Bear IQ, easily aggregates, cleans, and measures, eventperformance – showing you exactly where to focus your marketing, sales, and educationteam’s energy. The best part is – it’s powered by the data you’re already collecting.It means you can use their predictive tools to grow audience, increase exhibitor and sponsor sales, and easily measure engagement across your education and certification programs.If you even a little curious, reach out to them at WWW.BearAnalytics.com and tell them Jim sent you!Mention code “TSU” to let them know Trade Show University to unlock a free post-eventreport

  • Hey Exhibitors - I gotta Rant because you're missing out. You're not doing enough. You're not putting in the work.

    Not that you're not working hard - I get that. You are.

    But you're not doing the right things.

    Ready to turn things around and Max Out your Leads and Opportunities?

    Go to Tradeshowu.biz/services

    Subscribe to https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

    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

  • Are you Creating Community at your trade shows and events? Building communities for your business is one of the hottest trends for good reason - it works! In this episode we discuss how and why you should incorporate this powerful tool into your strategy!

    ** Watch the video of this interview - https://youtu.be/be07vkLCfMs

    Joining host Jim Cermak for the second time is Evan Babins, Event Manager for Intuit.

    Evan has close to 10 years’ experience in corporate event production. Throughout his career, he has managed event logistics and production for world class clients like: Nissan Canada, Equitable Bank, Kia Canada, Novartis, and TD Bank, and now Quickbooks. Evan has worked in live, virtual and hybrid event spaces, becoming a top tier event industry trendsetter. Evan has been named one of BizBash's Top 250 Event Professionals, Eventex's Top 50 Most Influential Event Technology Professionals, Bizzabo's Top 55 Event Experience Leaders and Special Event Magazine's Top 20 Young Event Pro's to Watch lists. 

    We discuss:

    What does creating community at events look like?What are the benefits?Can exhibitors build communities?How the benefits last far after the event has endedAnd more!

    Listen to Evan's first interview on Trade Show University:

    Innovative Best Practices for Exhibitors: https://tradeshowu.biz/episodes/ep-138-innovative-best-practices-for-exhibitors-with-evan-babins/

    Connect with Evan Babins:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanbabins/Instagram: @evanbabinsTwitter/X: @evanbabins

    SUBSCRIBE! Trade Show Tips, tricks and strategies at https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

    *** Listen to 100's of episodes of the Trade Show University podcast at your favorite Podcast Platform!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Add Greater Value to Exhibitors & Sponsors with EVA Event Tech Hub

    Visit www.evareg.com/TSU to get started on adding greater value to your Exhibitors and Sponsors at your next Trade Show or Event!

    Exhibitor Expert Review - exclusively from Trade Show University

    Ready to exhibit at your next Show? Don’t make the mistake of waiting until you get to the show to learn lessons on what you can do better and tweaks you can make for next time. You can do that BEFORE this next show and accelerate your results!I can help you get locked in for Success with an Expert Review!• Having a professional set of outside "eyes" is important because You Don't Know what You Don't Know!• 30+ year Trade Show expert will review:o Designo Messagingo Goals & Metricso Engagement Questionso Attendee journey• Identify the Gaps and Opportunities you don’t even know exist!• And get you capturing more Qualified Leads than ever before• Visit Tradeshowu.biz/services

  • You should be Podcasting from your Trade Shows and Events! We discuss podcasting Options you need to check out to get More Leads, build your Brand, and increase Attendee Engagement!

    Trade Show University founder and host, Jim Cermak, interviews Carey Green. Carey founded Podcast Fast Track - a full-service podcast production agency in 2018 and in 2023 launched "Mobile Podcast Studio" a full-service on-location recording solution for events, conferences, trade shows, and more. He is also host of his own daily podcast which averages over 10,000 listeners per day.

    We Discuss:

    * Podcasting and the Mobile Podcast Studio option for events and trade shows.

    * Why should every event organizer or trade show operator consider podcasting as part of their strategy?

    * What kind of events or event-topics are best-fit for using a mobile podcast studio at their event?

    * What are the different use cases for an on-site podcast recording studio at an event?

    * What about sound issues at live events? Isn't the noise level inherent in public spaces difficult to overcome?

    * How can trade show organizers afford a mobile podcast solution?

    Carey's Top Takeaways:

    * Leverage the portability and accessibility of audio to enhance your attendee experience.

    * Find creative ways to get your event attendees talking about your event (both during and after).

    Connect with Carey Green:

    Email: [email protected] https://TheMobilePodcastStudio.comhttps://PodcastFastTrack.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/careyngreen/

    SUBSCRIBE! Trade Show Tips, tricks and strategies at https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

    *** Listen to 100's of episodes of the Trade Show University podcast at your favorite Podcast Platform!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    John Lee Dumas book giveaway - join newsletter list

    John Lee Dumas book giveaway - join newsletter listThe Common Path to Uncommon Success

  • There is ONE CHANGE, one SHIFT you can make, which will make all the difference in your trade show results in 2024.

    This is a message specifically for small businesses. I'm talking about any business that has a small booth at a big show, or even you're doing a tabletop booth somewhere.

    One thing I know about you is that trade shows are just one part of everything that you're doing.

    You don't have a person dedicated to trade show management and planning and all, doing all that stuff, and that's all that they do. You're wearing a bunch of different hats or have a lot of other things on your plate.

    If that sounds like you, I'm in your corner. I know what it's like. So here's what you need to do. You need to change your mindset about trade shows.

    What does that mean? Well, listen, trade shows are the most powerful marketing tool you have available to you, and it can pay off in a big way. If you have the right mindset, if you're planning like it is the most powerful marketing tool, if you plan like I'm going to have the most Awesome opportunities at this show. If you plan, like you're going to be able to land the biggest customers and fill my pipeline for the year.

    But if you don't plan for that, you will get mediocre results.

    You're in control. And it starts with your mindset.

    The right mindset is that trade shows are worth investing the time and the effort to do them right first. You need to make a commitment that you will take these shows seriously. You will get out of them what you put in.

    You have to be efficient. You have to plan like this show is going to make your year. This show can fill up your sales lead funnel. Like you never thought that is the way you've got to approach it because that is the truth that can happen for you if you plan it correctly, but only planning with that mindset is not enough.

    You've got to execute with the same mindset and now that you've got to instill that mindset to your entire team, who's going to be there or helping you plan the event. Take this seriously.

    Once you get to the show, it is not a nuisance. It's not just a vacation. It's not just a time away from the office.

    You got to WORK THE SHOW. That's why you're there.

    I have worked with people who did not give it their all. Okay. We were not focused, not engaged. The results suffered, but if you're locked in on your goals, you have that strategy and make sure everybody's on the same page and then you work it.

    You work that strategy, you engage with the attendees and you make things happen. The results will be double or more than if you don't. DOUBLE or more. So you take a little bit extra time and you do it right.

    It's all about your mindset.

    Now, if you're a one person company or you're in charge of planning and everything all by yourself, consider bringing a professional into help.

    You want to see what that looks like. I am more than happy to jump on a free 15 minute phone call with you. I have to do is go over to https://tradeshowu.biz/services Click on that big blue "BOOK MY DISCOVERY CALL" button, and we will jump on for 15 minutes and discuss the possibilities and see what it looks like for you.

    I am looking forward to helping you make 2024 your best year ever and trade shows can power your year, bringing in more leads, more sales and more profits than you ever thought possible!

    Check out all our videos with tips, tricks and strategies at https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

    *** Listen to 100's of episodes of the Trade Show University podcast at your favorite Podcast Platform!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!

    Check out...

  • If you are launching a new product at a Trade Show, this is a must listen interview!

    Jim Cermak, host and founder of Trade Show University, interviews successful inventor Steve Waddell.

    Steve is an experienced entrepreneur with a rich background in product development and innovation. Over the years, Steve has turned bright ideas into successful products which have earned millions of dollars in investments. He took the lessons learned and created the new book, 'Valuepreneurs.' This book provides a blueprint for others to navigate the challenging yet rewarding path of entrepreneurship.

    Steve and Jim discuss:

    -- The key concepts and methodologies from my new book, 'Valuepreneurs,' which delves into the Value-Driven Product Development (VDPD) process

    -- Enhancing the success rate of new products across diverse industries

    -- The critical stages from ideation to market launch

    -- How to launch new products at trade shows and exhibitions, where product innovation and effective development strategies are crucial.

    -- And much more!

    Learn more about Valuepreneurs:

    -- Webiste: www.valuepreneurs.com

    -- Online Community: https://www.skool.com/valuepreneurs-2715

    -- The 2024 Valuepreneur's Idea to Product Summit: https://2024.ideatoproductsummit.com/

    Connect with Steve Waddell:

    -- [email protected]

    -- Book website: https://valuepreneurs.com

    *** FREE 15-Minute Profit Potential Call with Jim Cermak - Trade Show Coach! https://tradeshowu.biz/services

    *** More Free Training and Tips - https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity

    *** Listen to 100's of episodes of the Trade Show University podcast at your favorite Podcast Platform!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Exhibitor Expert Review - exclusively from Trade Show University

    Ready to exhibit at your next Show? Don’t make the mistake of waiting until you get to the show to learn lessons on what you can do better and tweaks you can make for next time. You can do that BEFORE this next show and accelerate your results!I can help you get locked in for Success with an Expert Review!• Having a professional set of outside "eyes" is important because You Don't Know what You Don't Know!• 30+ year Trade Show expert will review:o Designo Messagingo Goals & Metricso Engagement Questionso Attendee journey• Identify the Gaps and Opportunities you don’t even know exist!• And get you capturing more Qualified Leads than ever before• Visit Tradeshowu.biz/services