After the Show: 5 Steps to Maximize Your Trade Show ROI

Attending a trade show is a great way to discover new products and techniques in the landscaping industry. However, the real work begins after you leave the show floor. To make the most of your investment, it's crucial to have a solid follow-up plan.

Here are five steps to take in the days and weeks after a trade show:

1. Organize Your Notes and Materials

   While the information is still fresh, take the time to review your notes and organize any brochures or materials you collected. This will help you crystallize the key ideas and opportunities you discovered.

2. Follow Up with New Contacts

   Send a prompt and professional follow-up email to every contact you made, whether it's a vendor or another landscaper. Thank them for their time and briefly remind them of the conversation you had to help solidify the new connection.

3. Connect with Vendors of Interest

   If you were interested in a specific product or service, now is the time to follow up with the vendor. This is the perfect opportunity to ask more detailed questions, request demos, and potentially negotiate a better price.

4. Create a Plan of Action

   Based on what you've learned, create a clear, actionable plan. Decide which new marketing ideas, operational techniques, or products you want to implement in your business and set a timeline for doing so.

5. Track Your Expenses

   Be sure to keep detailed records of all trade show-related expenses, including registration fees, travel costs, and meals. This will help you accurately track your event ROI and ensure you take full advantage of any available tax deductions.

A trade show is a significant investment of time and money. By taking these follow-up steps, you can ensure that you turn the experience into tangible, long-term benefits for your business.