By Becca Butler
 Whether your goal is to meet new buyers, increase brand awareness or network within the industry, the best and easiest way to reach it is to have a plan for the Show. | |
Exhibitors who plan and prepare in advance are sure to get the greatest return on their SEMA Show investment. Whether your goal is to meet new buyers, increase brand awareness or network within the industry, the best and easiest way to reach your goals is to have a plan. To help exhibitors stay on track, utilizing all of the tools and resources SEMA has to offer, the monthly checklist below outlines what every exhibitor should be doing this month:
- Select/Confirm Booth Location: This is the month exhibitors select their actual booth location. Exhibitors who submitted their applications before the April 6 deadline will have an assigned date/time as to when they will select their booth space. Exhibitors who submitted an application after the April 6 deadline will select their space after the Priority Booth Space Selection Process concludes toward the end of the month. Know when you are scheduled to select your space and plan accordingly.
- Revisit Your Budget: Once you confirm your booth location, you can firm up your budget to map out the nitty-gritty. Knowing exactly where your booth is and how it fits into the overall floorplan will allow you to determine costs for carpet, electrical, signage, etc. Use the exhibitor Budget Checklist to outline expenses and ensure you stay within your budget. Exhibitors can find all of the information regarding booth products, services and their cost in the Exhibitor Services Manual.
- Promote Your Booth: Don’t wait until the SEMA Show arrives in November to let buyers know you will be exhibiting. Start promoting your participation as soon as you have your booth location and booth number. Share the news on your website and social media sites and begin preparing press releases. Use the hashtag #SEMA2015, join and participate in the SEMA Show Exhibitor LinkedIn Group and post releases on the SEMA Online Media Center.
- Register Staff: Secure exhibitor badges for your company personnel using the online exhibitor registration form. Complimentary badges are provided to exhibitors based on the size of the exhibit space and can be ordered quickly and easily by the primary contact at the exhibiting company. Additional badges beyond the complimentary allotment can be purchased, while badges for contractors, vendors (such as those providing installation/dismantling services, exhibit builders, sound and lighting companies, production or promotion companies, florists, computer rental companies, etc.) and contest winners are available in other categories.
- Schedule Reminders: Discounted advance rates are available for a number of services, including lead-retrieval rentals, booth catering, exhibit accessory rentals and more. Save money by getting your orders in before the deadlines. Because the deadlines vary, enter these dates on your calendars now and set reminder notices for yourself. As the Show gets closer and things become more hectic, these dates will be key for exhibitors and their success. Deadlines can be found in the Exhibitor Services Manual.
Already done? Ensure you’ve also completed April’s checklist and keep a look out for next month’s list. To learn about all of the resources available for exhibitors, contact sales@sema.org or 909-396-0289. Companies interested in exhibiting can still sign up online.