Luanne Brown, president and CEO of eTool Developers, provided a roadmap on how to select the ideal web designer during the SEMA webinar presentation, "How to Select and Prepare for a Web Designer." The process that Brown outlined concentrates on two main areas: preparing for a web designer by conducting thorough research of a company's needs and selecting a designer based on building a team best suited to meet the needs identified. Access the entire presentation here.

One of the basics of a site launch or redesign is having a plan and fully identifying what you want the website to achieve. Is it's main purpose to increase sales? Offer product information? Attract new business partners? Before a company can select a web developer, it needs to prepare for the web developer. Listed below are just some of the factors to address prior to launching or redesigning a website.

Preparing for a Web Designer

According to Brown, most often, people looking to redesign their websites are doing so for one main purpose: to sell more products. However, aside from determining the main goal of a site, Brown also urges companies to think about secondary goals for the site, which can range from company branding and communication to providing how-to videos for your products.

It is also important to incorporate your marketing goals and objectives—what Brown refers to as a company's offline plan—with what you plan to do online. "Goals describe future, expected outcome. Goals focus on the end rather than the means," said Brown. Always stay focused on the reasons and purpose for creating or redesigning the website throughout the development process.

"I have always felt that your best online plan is your offline plan," said Brown. "Integrating your goals and objectives from your offline marketing plan enhances your web goals and objectives."

Content is also something that companies need to thoroughly plan prior to bringing in a designer. Brown says to identify the type of content you intend to use on your site. List all types of content you plan to include, such as text, logos, images, product catalogs, in-site search engines, shopping carts, online registration forms, etc.

"One of the biggest reasons people are not satisfied with their site's results," Brown shares, "is because they did not plan properly."

Selecting a Web Designer

With the plan in place and the purpose of the website identified, selecting the appropriate designer is the next step. Brown suggests starting the research for web designers by compiling a list of design candidates. She also says that examining a competitor's website to find out who did the design can provide an idea of where to start. Conducting a Google or Yahoo search for web designers is another good way to get the process started.

"Examine the work of the design firms on your list," said Brown. "Even though you are not an expert, you should be able to tell by a careful examination of a live website that the site was created by someone who knew what they were doing."

You can pinpoint strengths and weakness simply by using an existing site and determining if it was easy to use and provided the appropriate information or resources.

Brown outlined the following questions while examining the existing work of potential designers:

• Is the website optimized for search engine detection?
• Does the website contain relevant content and make proper use of keywords and phrases?
• What site strengths and weaknesses did you identify during your usability tests?

When the list is narrowed for a few candidates, Brown suggests contacting your prospects and sharing with them the specific goals you are trying to accomplish and the types of content you want included in your website. It is also important to ask for a detailed quote that includes a summary of the project and a description of the web design and development process, which includes the specific solutions for your business.

"It's important to share information, marketing plans, business goals and the direction your company is going with the designer," explained Brown. "You join together as a team, and what happens is that you take pride and ownership of the project and your website as well."

For the complete process of preparing and selecting a web designer, including Brown's questions to ask potential developers and how to evaluate and compare the quotes you receive, download the entire presentation here.

SEMA's Webinar Program

The SEMA webinar series delivers industry-focused educational sessions straight to the desktops of SEMA-member companies and their employees. With topics ranging from economic outlook to sales to aftermarket industry trends, members can participate live or download sessions that are specific to a company’s needs.

To learn more about the SEMA webinars or to view past webinar presentations, visit www.sema.org/webinar.

Luanne Brown, president and CEO of eTool Developers, provided a roadmap on how to select the ideal web designer during the SEMA webinar presentation, "How to Select and Prepare for a Web Designer." The process that Brown outlined concentrates on two main areas: preparing for a web designer by conducting thorough research of a company's needs and selecting a designer based on building a team best suited to meet the needs identified. Access the entire presentation here.

One of the basics of a site launch or redesign is having a plan and fully identifying what you want the website to achieve. Is it's main purpose to increase sales? Offer product information? Attract new business partners? Before a company can select a web developer, it needs to prepare for the web developer. Listed below are just some of the factors to address prior to launching or redesigning a website.

Preparing for a Web Designer

According to Brown, most often, people looking to redesign their websites are doing so for one main purpose: to sell more products. However, aside from determining the main goal of a site, Brown also urges companies to think about secondary goals for the site, which can range from company branding and communication to providing how-to videos for your products.

It is also important to incorporate your marketing goals and objectives—what Brown refers to as a company's offline plan—with what you plan to do online. "Goals describe future, expected outcome. Goals focus on the end rather than the means," said Brown. Always stay focused on the reasons and purpose for creating or redesigning the website throughout the development process.

"I have always felt that your best online plan is your offline plan," said Brown. "Integrating your goals and objectives from your offline marketing plan enhances your web goals and objectives."

Content is also something that companies need to thoroughly plan prior to bringing in a designer. Brown says to identify the type of content you intend to use on your site. List all types of content you plan to include, such as text, logos, images, product catalogs, in-site search engines, shopping carts, online registration forms, etc.

"One of the biggest reasons people are not satisfied with their site's results," Brown shares, "is because they did not plan properly."

Selecting a Web Designer

With the plan in place and the purpose of the website identified, selecting the appropriate designer is the next step. Brown suggests starting the research for web designers by compiling a list of design candidates. She also says that examining a competitor's website to find out who did the design can provide an idea of where to start. Conducting a Google or Yahoo search for web designers is another good way to get the process started.

"Examine the work of the design firms on your list," said Brown. "Even though you are not an expert, you should be able to tell by a careful examination of a live website that the site was created by someone who knew what they were doing."

You can pinpoint strengths and weakness simply by using an existing site and determining if it was easy to use and provided the appropriate information or resources.

Brown outlined the following questions while examining the existing work of potential designers:

• Is the website optimized for search engine detection?
• Does the website contain relevant content and make proper use of keywords and phrases?
• What site strengths and weaknesses did you identify during your usability tests?

When the list is narrowed for a few candidates, Brown suggests contacting your prospects and sharing with them the specific goals you are trying to accomplish and the types of content you want included in your website. It is also important to ask for a detailed quote that includes a summary of the project and a description of the web design and development process, which includes the specific solutions for your business.

"It's important to share information, marketing plans, business goals and the direction your company is going with the designer," explained Brown. "You join together as a team, and what happens is that you take pride and ownership of the project and your website as well."

For the complete process of preparing and selecting a web designer, including Brown's questions to ask potential developers and how to evaluate and compare the quotes you receive, download the entire presentation here.

SEMA's Webinar Program

The SEMA webinar series delivers industry-focused educational sessions straight to the desktops of SEMA-member companies and their employees. With topics ranging from economic outlook to sales to aftermarket industry trends, members can participate live or download sessions that are specific to a company’s needs.

To learn more about the SEMA webinars or to view past webinar presentations, visit www.sema.org/webinar.

SEMA members participating in the SEMA-CIAPE Business Development Conference will be paired with relevant Chinese buyers in up to a dozen private, pre-scheduled meetings.

Light-vehicle sales in China rose 53% in the first five months of the year to nearly 7.2 million units, according to J.D. Power and Associates. It’s hard to ignore that kind of momentum. Some SEMA members aren’t. They are headed to Beijing in late September for the SEMA-CIAPE Business Development Conference. Many see it as a good opportunity to learn more about the China market.

The July 16 deadline to register for the event is fast approaching. SEMA members who register by July 16 can take advantage of a low-cost, high-impact networking opportunity for top Chinese buyers and leading SEMA-member manufacturers. Rates increase 25% after July 16.

High-performance suspension product maker Eibach Springs will be in Beijing. “Eibach has always supported the growth of potential and emerging markets," said Gary Peek, senior vice president of sales and marketing at the Corona, California-based company. "We see both of those in capital letters in China."

Participating SEMA members will be paired with relevant Chinese buyers in up to a dozen private, pre-scheduled meetings. One-on-one meetings with potential Chinese partners at this ground-breaking event will allow you to get to know them and the market.

Holley Performance Products of Bowling Green, Kentucky, is taking part in the conference. “Our primary goal is to test the water, gauge the China market and how much interest there is in the performance market,” said Gang Chen, the chief China representative for Holley Performance Products.

The company is on a “fact-finding mission,” said Lisa Mitchell, director of corporate purchasing. Holley makes a wide variety of aftermarket automotive engine parts. It already sources from China; now it is considering selling there, too.

“We want to grow the business," Mitchell said. "We haven’t gone after export; now we’re in a growth mode."

Getting to know the China market better is one of his goals at the conference, said Kirk Miller, vice president of sales and marketing for SEMA-member AEM Performance Electronics. AEM makes engine management systems, sensors and fuel-delivery systems.

“We want to get a better lay of the land, know where the hotspots are, what our pricing strategy in China should be and how to get products to consumers,” said Miller.

Two hot growth segments with promise for SEMA members are luxury cars and SUVs. Sales remained strong for both in the first five months of this year. Luxury car sales rose 64%, according to J.D. Power, to 169,593 units. SUV sales shot up 128% in the first five months compared to the same period in 2009 to more than 600,000 units.

Those numbers point to future sales in China, said SEMA Chairman-Elect Paul "Scooter" Brothers of Comp Performance Group. “Our philosophy at all of our Comp companies is to keep an eye on the future markets,” he said.

Comp Performance Group companies make products ranging from cams and valvetrains to driveline components and electric fuel-injection boxes. Getting into the China market early can give Comp companies a competitive advantage there, said Brothers.

“We want to begin to establish some visibility among the high-performance crowd,” Brothers said. “If you can establish a relationship with players in the high-performance world, it will be easy to cultivate those along the way."

If a company waits until the market is more developed, it could be too late, Brothers added. “Overnight it is going to develop and just be there,” he said. “Those of us who have products ready will be able to take advantage of that.”

The SEMA trip offers the kind of hands-on opportunity that is vital to developing a new market, said Eibach’s Peek.

“We see and hear statistics,” he said. “[But] when you hear and talk to the people, you find out what the market is made of. We want to observe first-hand the actual growth and condition of the market, to ensure our product applications and distribution channel is effective.”

Other SEMA members can do the same.

For more information, visit www.sema.org/china or contact Linda Spencer lindas@sema.org.

SEMA members participating in the SEMA-CIAPE Business Development Conference will be paired with relevant Chinese buyers in up to a dozen private, pre-scheduled meetings.

Light-vehicle sales in China rose 53% in the first five months of the year to nearly 7.2 million units, according to J.D. Power and Associates. It’s hard to ignore that kind of momentum. Some SEMA members aren’t. They are headed to Beijing in late September for the SEMA-CIAPE Business Development Conference. Many see it as a good opportunity to learn more about the China market.

The July 16 deadline to register for the event is fast approaching. SEMA members who register by July 16 can take advantage of a low-cost, high-impact networking opportunity for top Chinese buyers and leading SEMA-member manufacturers. Rates increase 25% after July 16.

High-performance suspension product maker Eibach Springs will be in Beijing. “Eibach has always supported the growth of potential and emerging markets," said Gary Peek, senior vice president of sales and marketing at the Corona, California-based company. "We see both of those in capital letters in China."

Participating SEMA members will be paired with relevant Chinese buyers in up to a dozen private, pre-scheduled meetings. One-on-one meetings with potential Chinese partners at this ground-breaking event will allow you to get to know them and the market.

Holley Performance Products of Bowling Green, Kentucky, is taking part in the conference. “Our primary goal is to test the water, gauge the China market and how much interest there is in the performance market,” said Gang Chen, the chief China representative for Holley Performance Products.

The company is on a “fact-finding mission,” said Lisa Mitchell, director of corporate purchasing. Holley makes a wide variety of aftermarket automotive engine parts. It already sources from China; now it is considering selling there, too.

“We want to grow the business," Mitchell said. "We haven’t gone after export; now we’re in a growth mode."

Getting to know the China market better is one of his goals at the conference, said Kirk Miller, vice president of sales and marketing for SEMA-member AEM Performance Electronics. AEM makes engine management systems, sensors and fuel-delivery systems.

“We want to get a better lay of the land, know where the hotspots are, what our pricing strategy in China should be and how to get products to consumers,” said Miller.

Two hot growth segments with promise for SEMA members are luxury cars and SUVs. Sales remained strong for both in the first five months of this year. Luxury car sales rose 64%, according to J.D. Power, to 169,593 units. SUV sales shot up 128% in the first five months compared to the same period in 2009 to more than 600,000 units.

Those numbers point to future sales in China, said SEMA Chairman-Elect Paul "Scooter" Brothers of Comp Performance Group. “Our philosophy at all of our Comp companies is to keep an eye on the future markets,” he said.

Comp Performance Group companies make products ranging from cams and valvetrains to driveline components and electric fuel-injection boxes. Getting into the China market early can give Comp companies a competitive advantage there, said Brothers.

“We want to begin to establish some visibility among the high-performance crowd,” Brothers said. “If you can establish a relationship with players in the high-performance world, it will be easy to cultivate those along the way."

If a company waits until the market is more developed, it could be too late, Brothers added. “Overnight it is going to develop and just be there,” he said. “Those of us who have products ready will be able to take advantage of that.”

The SEMA trip offers the kind of hands-on opportunity that is vital to developing a new market, said Eibach’s Peek.

“We see and hear statistics,” he said. “[But] when you hear and talk to the people, you find out what the market is made of. We want to observe first-hand the actual growth and condition of the market, to ensure our product applications and distribution channel is effective.”

Other SEMA members can do the same.

For more information, visit www.sema.org/china or contact Linda Spencer lindas@sema.org.

SEMA members participating in the SEMA-CIAPE Business Development Conference will be paired with relevant Chinese buyers in up to a dozen private, pre-scheduled meetings.

Light-vehicle sales in China rose 53% in the first five months of the year to nearly 7.2 million units, according to J.D. Power and Associates. It’s hard to ignore that kind of momentum. Some SEMA members aren’t. They are headed to Beijing in late September for the SEMA-CIAPE Business Development Conference. Many see it as a good opportunity to learn more about the China market.

The July 16 deadline to register for the event is fast approaching. SEMA members who register by July 16 can take advantage of a low-cost, high-impact networking opportunity for top Chinese buyers and leading SEMA-member manufacturers. Rates increase 25% after July 16.

High-performance suspension product maker Eibach Springs will be in Beijing. “Eibach has always supported the growth of potential and emerging markets," said Gary Peek, senior vice president of sales and marketing at the Corona, California-based company. "We see both of those in capital letters in China."

Participating SEMA members will be paired with relevant Chinese buyers in up to a dozen private, pre-scheduled meetings. One-on-one meetings with potential Chinese partners at this ground-breaking event will allow you to get to know them and the market.

Holley Performance Products of Bowling Green, Kentucky, is taking part in the conference. “Our primary goal is to test the water, gauge the China market and how much interest there is in the performance market,” said Gang Chen, the chief China representative for Holley Performance Products.

The company is on a “fact-finding mission,” said Lisa Mitchell, director of corporate purchasing. Holley makes a wide variety of aftermarket automotive engine parts. It already sources from China; now it is considering selling there, too.

“We want to grow the business," Mitchell said. "We haven’t gone after export; now we’re in a growth mode."

Getting to know the China market better is one of his goals at the conference, said Kirk Miller, vice president of sales and marketing for SEMA-member AEM Performance Electronics. AEM makes engine management systems, sensors and fuel-delivery systems.

“We want to get a better lay of the land, know where the hotspots are, what our pricing strategy in China should be and how to get products to consumers,” said Miller.

Two hot growth segments with promise for SEMA members are luxury cars and SUVs. Sales remained strong for both in the first five months of this year. Luxury car sales rose 64%, according to J.D. Power, to 169,593 units. SUV sales shot up 128% in the first five months compared to the same period in 2009 to more than 600,000 units.

Those numbers point to future sales in China, said SEMA Chairman-Elect Paul "Scooter" Brothers of Comp Performance Group. “Our philosophy at all of our Comp companies is to keep an eye on the future markets,” he said.

Comp Performance Group companies make products ranging from cams and valvetrains to driveline components and electric fuel-injection boxes. Getting into the China market early can give Comp companies a competitive advantage there, said Brothers.

“We want to begin to establish some visibility among the high-performance crowd,” Brothers said. “If you can establish a relationship with players in the high-performance world, it will be easy to cultivate those along the way."

If a company waits until the market is more developed, it could be too late, Brothers added. “Overnight it is going to develop and just be there,” he said. “Those of us who have products ready will be able to take advantage of that.”

The SEMA trip offers the kind of hands-on opportunity that is vital to developing a new market, said Eibach’s Peek.

“We see and hear statistics,” he said. “[But] when you hear and talk to the people, you find out what the market is made of. We want to observe first-hand the actual growth and condition of the market, to ensure our product applications and distribution channel is effective.”

Other SEMA members can do the same.

For more information, visit www.sema.org/china or contact Linda Spencer lindas@sema.org.

SEMA members participating in the SEMA-CIAPE Business Development Conference will be paired with relevant Chinese buyers in up to a dozen private, pre-scheduled meetings.

Light-vehicle sales in China rose 53% in the first five months of the year to nearly 7.2 million units, according to J.D. Power and Associates. It’s hard to ignore that kind of momentum. Some SEMA members aren’t. They are headed to Beijing in late September for the SEMA-CIAPE Business Development Conference. Many see it as a good opportunity to learn more about the China market.

The July 16 deadline to register for the event is fast approaching. SEMA members who register by July 16 can take advantage of a low-cost, high-impact networking opportunity for top Chinese buyers and leading SEMA-member manufacturers. Rates increase 25% after July 16.

High-performance suspension product maker Eibach Springs will be in Beijing. “Eibach has always supported the growth of potential and emerging markets," said Gary Peek, senior vice president of sales and marketing at the Corona, California-based company. "We see both of those in capital letters in China."

Participating SEMA members will be paired with relevant Chinese buyers in up to a dozen private, pre-scheduled meetings. One-on-one meetings with potential Chinese partners at this ground-breaking event will allow you to get to know them and the market.

Holley Performance Products of Bowling Green, Kentucky, is taking part in the conference. “Our primary goal is to test the water, gauge the China market and how much interest there is in the performance market,” said Gang Chen, the chief China representative for Holley Performance Products.

The company is on a “fact-finding mission,” said Lisa Mitchell, director of corporate purchasing. Holley makes a wide variety of aftermarket automotive engine parts. It already sources from China; now it is considering selling there, too.

“We want to grow the business," Mitchell said. "We haven’t gone after export; now we’re in a growth mode."

Getting to know the China market better is one of his goals at the conference, said Kirk Miller, vice president of sales and marketing for SEMA-member AEM Performance Electronics. AEM makes engine management systems, sensors and fuel-delivery systems.

“We want to get a better lay of the land, know where the hotspots are, what our pricing strategy in China should be and how to get products to consumers,” said Miller.

Two hot growth segments with promise for SEMA members are luxury cars and SUVs. Sales remained strong for both in the first five months of this year. Luxury car sales rose 64%, according to J.D. Power, to 169,593 units. SUV sales shot up 128% in the first five months compared to the same period in 2009 to more than 600,000 units.

Those numbers point to future sales in China, said SEMA Chairman-Elect Paul "Scooter" Brothers of Comp Performance Group. “Our philosophy at all of our Comp companies is to keep an eye on the future markets,” he said.

Comp Performance Group companies make products ranging from cams and valvetrains to driveline components and electric fuel-injection boxes. Getting into the China market early can give Comp companies a competitive advantage there, said Brothers.

“We want to begin to establish some visibility among the high-performance crowd,” Brothers said. “If you can establish a relationship with players in the high-performance world, it will be easy to cultivate those along the way."

If a company waits until the market is more developed, it could be too late, Brothers added. “Overnight it is going to develop and just be there,” he said. “Those of us who have products ready will be able to take advantage of that.”

The SEMA trip offers the kind of hands-on opportunity that is vital to developing a new market, said Eibach’s Peek.

“We see and hear statistics,” he said. “[But] when you hear and talk to the people, you find out what the market is made of. We want to observe first-hand the actual growth and condition of the market, to ensure our product applications and distribution channel is effective.”

Other SEMA members can do the same.

For more information, visit www.sema.org/china or contact Linda Spencer lindas@sema.org.

SEMA Show exhibitors: Generate more buzz for your company and its products at the 2010 SEMA Show by offering products to builders through the SEMA Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list.

From now until just days before the 2010 SEMA Show, the latest additions to this list are made available through SEMA eNews. Hundreds of builders access the list looking for the pieces to complete their builds. Product-placement opportunities such as this are so beneficial that many exhibitors offer products for free or at a greatly reduced rate.

To place your product on the list, send your company name, a brief product description, contact information and a website where the products can be viewed to eNews@sema.org and put “Product List” in the e-mail subject line.

Remember, builders will contact you directly, so make sure your contact information is accurate. New submissions will be included each week when available.

Here are the most recent additions to the list:

Engine/Underhood Components

ANSA: Silverline exhaust products. Performance stainless steel exhaust systems and stacks for light-duty diesel pickups. Exhaust systems for European exotics and proto-typing for project and custom cars. Contact: Robert Diotte, bobd@ansaautomotive.com. Website: www.Ansaautomotive.com.

Ansen USA: Valve covers, air cleaners and breathers. Contact: Ariel Rider, Ariel@ansenusa.com, 310/534-1837. Website: www.AnsenUsa.com.

Eaton: Eaton Aeroquip Performance AQP and StartLite hose, fittings and adapters for hot rods, race cars, light trucks and musclecars. Contact: Beth Mooney, bethmmooney@eaton.com, 419/891-7619. Website: www.eaton.com/aeroquipperformance.

Linear Logic: ScanGaugeII compact, multifunction automotive computer. It is a trip computer, digital gauges (four simultaneous) and also a scan tool for reading and clearing trouble codes. Contact Joey Snyder, joey.snyder@linear-logic.com, 888/433-5664. Website: www.scangauge.com.

Maradyne High Performance Fans: High-performance electric cooling fans with sealed motors. Molded from glass filled nylon, single- and dual-shrouded fans available. Contact: Susan Robinson, 817/428-3636, ext. 655. Website: www.maradynehp.com.

Exterior Products/Accessories

Retro USA: Retro-styled chrome bumpers, trim and moldings for the 2005–2009 Mustang, 2008–2010 Challenger and 2010 Camaro. CHROME-TECH products feature chrome film laminated to TPO plastic. Other products include paintable retro-styled moldings using TPO plastics and graphics. Contact: Gary Green, garygreen@frontiernet.net, 612/202-8422. Website: www.retrousa.net.

Wheels & Tires

Vossen Wheels: High-end one-piece wheels with sizes ranging from 19-inch to 22-inch and widths up to 12.5 inches. Contact: Jav, jav@vossenwheels.com, 305/463-7778.

Here are the previous additions to the list:

Engine/Underhood Components

AEM Induction: Full line of high-performance air intake systems and air filters for sport/compacts, modern-day musclecars, trucks and SUVs. Gas and diesel applications available. Contact: Lucio Tapia luciot@aemintakes.com.
Website: www.aemintakes.com.

ATS Diesel: Performance products for diesel trucks. Contact: Matt Bozarth, matt@atsdiesel.com, 866/408-7916. Website: www.atsdiesel.com/SEMA.

CFMPlus LLC: Intake manifolds for Dodge 5.9L and Ford 6.0L/7.3L diesel trucks. Contact: John Moore, 760/598-2478, ext. 1. Website: www.cfmplus.com.

Dynojet Research: Automotive performance products (piggyback EMS) for select vehicles. The CMD is designed to optimize the power of your OEM forced induction vehicle while retaining the factory engine management system and allows the user to precisely alter the fuel and boost, working in parallel with OBD2. Also available, the universal Wideband 2 air/fuel ratio monitor with gauge. Check the website for available vehicle applications. Contact: Keith Lockliear, klockliear@dynojet.com, 800/992-4993. Website: www.dynojetcmd.com.

Flowmaster Inc.: Complete exhaust systems and individual Flowmaster and Hushpower mufflers. Contact Cam Benty, cam.benty@flowmastermufflers.com, 707/694-1863.

Gibson Performance Exhaust: Performance stainless steel and aluminized exhaust and street legal headers in chrome, stainless steel and ceramic. Contact: Robert, Gibsonperformance1@gibsonperformance.com, 800/528-3044, ext.112, or visit www.gibsonexhaust.com/sponsorship for the sponsorship form. Website: www.Gibsonperformance.com.

HP Tuners: Chips and tuning. If your SEMA project needs tuning, HP Tuners wants to help you out. Contact Jay Payson, Jay@HPTuners.com. Website: www.HPTuners.com.

ProCharger (ATI): Superchargers and complete intercooled supercharger systems. Contact Cary Pangrac, cpangrac@procharger.com. Website: www.procharger.com.

K&N Engineering Inc.: High-flow intake systems, OE replacement air filters and high-performance oil filters for most vehicles and powersports applications. Contact: Lucio Tapia, luciot@knfilters.com, 951/826-4000, ext. 4350. Website: www.knfilters.com.

Exterior Products/Accessories

Advantage Truck Accessories: Advantage tonneau covers. Contact: Jeff Fink, 574/293-0979. Website: www.AdvantageTruckAccessories.com.

Al’s Liner Do-it-Yourself Coatings: Al’s Do-it-Yourself Bed Liner is an 86% solids content urethane/acrylic blend. The simple batch system allows users to apply in any color, texture or thickness and is ideal for automotive undercoating, interior sound deadening, trailer flooring and much more. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com, 800/999-6841. Website: www.alsliner.com.

BASF Refinish: A full range of waterborne and solvent-borne basecoat systems from Glasurit, R-M and Limco. Also a full line of custom products including Carizzma Colors, Foose Signature series, Flat Paint and Candy's. Contact: Brian Fox (Fox Marketing), brian@foxmarketing.net, 717/718-5505. Website: www.basfrefinish.com.

Bedslide: Bedslide cargo management system offers easy access to your truck's, van's or SUV's load. Contact David McInturf for qualification sheet and to discuss your plans. Contact: David McInturf, 888/807-0099 (toll free), 541/842-2771 (direct). Website: www.bedslide.com.

BOLT Series Locks: Padlocks, receiver locks, cable locks and spare tire locks that work with the vehicle's (GM, Ford, Chrysler or Jeep) key. Contact: Erika Garcia, ggarcia@strattec.com, 414/247-3552. Website: www.BOLTlock.com.

California Pony Cars: Premium-quality products for '64–'73 classic Mustangs and 2005–2011 Mustangs. Contact: Jamiel George, Jamiel@calponycars.com, 909/923-2357. Website: www.calponycars.com.

Eagle Enterprises Inc.: Striping and vinyl graphics. Contact: Wayne Casimir, 800/874-9564, 316/945-8500. Website: www.eagleict.com.

EGR Incorporated: Full line of exterior plastic accessories for trucks, SUVs and cars. Products include, but are not limited to, No Drill Fender Flares, No Drill Hood Protectors, Side WindowVisors and Bed Rail Caps. Contact: info@egrusa.com, 909/923-7075. Website: www.egrusa.com.

Go Industries Inc.: Big Tex and Rancher grille guards. Nerf bars, tailgates and rack systems. Contact: Scott Covelli, scott@goindustries.com, 800/527-4345. Website: www.goindustries.com.

Mile Marker Inc.: Self-recovery electric and hydraulic winches. Contact: Susanne Krentz, susannemk@milemarker.com, 800/426-8646.

Räv Design: Custom design, digital printing and vinyl graphics for any car, truck or SUV. Contact: Nikki Hess, 714/743-3199. Website: www.ravdesign.com.

RETRAX Truck Bed Covers: RETRAX retractable truck bed cover; silver RETRAX retractable truck bed cover. Contact: Andy Nephew, marketing@rolltopcover.com, 701/746-5596. Website: www.rolltopcover.com.

Rhino Linings Corporation: Sprayed-on truck bedliner. Contact: Jenny Clifford jclifford@rhinolinings.com, 858/410-6020. Website: www.rhinolinings.com.

Rocky Ridge Products: Stainless steel roof rack systems for Jeep Wranglers, JK and TJ. Contact: David Barnard, dbarnard@rockyridgeproducts.com, 440/241-3638. Website: www.RockyRidgeProducts.com.

Smartwax: SMARTONE product for all featured vehicles. Contact: Jeff Maldonado, 800/295-8070. Website: www.smartwax.com.

SilverHorse Racing: Tru-Billet interior and exterior products for '94–'11 Ford Mustangs as well as patented Honeycomb trunk panel, grille inserts and flush-mount louvers for the '05–'11 Mustang. Contact: Marcello Canitano, info@silverhorseracing.com. Website: www.SilverHorseRacing.com.

TruXedo: Soft roll-up tonneau covers for any make or model of truck. Contact: Rachel Fernandez, rachelf@truxedo.com, 877/878-9336, ext. 287. Website: www.truxedo.com.

UnderCover Truck Bed Covers: UnderCover SE smooth, ready-to-paint tonneau covers. Contact: Jason Hutchens (jhutchens@undercoverinfo.com) or Sally Goldberg (sally@undercoverinfo.com). Website: www.UnderCoverInfo.com.

Interior Products/Accessories

Bedslide: Bedslide cargo management system offers easy access to the load in your truck, van or SUV. Contact David McInturf for a qualification sheet and to discuss your plans. Contact: David McInturf, 888/807-0099 (toll free), 541/842-2771 (direct). Website: www.bedslide.com.

California Pony Cars: Premium-quality products for '64–'73 classic Mustangs and '05–'11 Mustangs. Contact: Jamiel George, Jamiel@calponycars.com, 909/923-2357. Website: www.calponycars.com.

NRG Innovations: The Gen 3—the newest edition to the quick-release family—making it even easier on the driver to be able to take off the steering wheel. Available colors: red, blue, green, gold, orange, gun metal, black and bronze. Website: www.getnrg.com.

Pecca Leather: Offering customized leather seat covers for domestic and import cars and trucks. Contact: Jeff Cater, jeff@pecca.us, 562/623-0781. Website: www.peccaleather.com.

SilverHorse Racing: Tru-Billet interior and exterior products for '94–'11 Ford Mustangs, as well as patented Honeycomb trunk panel, grille inserts and flush-mount louvers for the '05–'11 Mustang. Contact: Marcello Canitano, info@silverhorseracing.com. Website: www.SilverHorseRacing.com.

Suspension/Brakes

BDS Suspension: Complete suspension systems—from leveling kits to 8-inch lifts—available for most all U.S. manufactured vehicles. Contact: Mike Maloney, mmaloney@bds-suspension.com. Website: www.bds-suspension.com.

Superlift Suspension Systems: Lift and leveling kits for trucks, Jeeps and SUVs. Please allow for a four- to six-week delivery time when requesting products for newly introduced vehicles. Contact: Joey Arbogast, jarbogast@superlift.com, 318/397-3024. Website: www.superlift.com.

Wheels & Tires

PDK Wheels: Custom wheels from Greed Wheels, Von Max Luxury Alloys and Mamba Offroad Alloys ranging in sizes from 15 to 26 inches. Contact: Amber Kliest, amber@pdkwheels.com. Websites: www.greedwheels.com, www.mambawheels.com, www.vonmaxwheels.com.

SEMA Show exhibitors: Generate more buzz for your company and its products at the 2010 SEMA Show by offering products to builders through the SEMA Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list.

From now until just days before the 2010 SEMA Show, the latest additions to this list are made available through SEMA eNews. Hundreds of builders access the list looking for the pieces to complete their builds. Product-placement opportunities such as this are so beneficial that many exhibitors offer products for free or at a greatly reduced rate.

To place your product on the list, send your company name, a brief product description, contact information and a website where the products can be viewed to eNews@sema.org and put “Product List” in the e-mail subject line.

Remember, builders will contact you directly, so make sure your contact information is accurate. New submissions will be included each week when available.

Here are the most recent additions to the list:

Engine/Underhood Components

ANSA: Silverline exhaust products. Performance stainless steel exhaust systems and stacks for light-duty diesel pickups. Exhaust systems for European exotics and proto-typing for project and custom cars. Contact: Robert Diotte, bobd@ansaautomotive.com. Website: www.Ansaautomotive.com.

Ansen USA: Valve covers, air cleaners and breathers. Contact: Ariel Rider, Ariel@ansenusa.com, 310/534-1837. Website: www.AnsenUsa.com.

Eaton: Eaton Aeroquip Performance AQP and StartLite hose, fittings and adapters for hot rods, race cars, light trucks and musclecars. Contact: Beth Mooney, bethmmooney@eaton.com, 419/891-7619. Website: www.eaton.com/aeroquipperformance.

Linear Logic: ScanGaugeII compact, multifunction automotive computer. It is a trip computer, digital gauges (four simultaneous) and also a scan tool for reading and clearing trouble codes. Contact Joey Snyder, joey.snyder@linear-logic.com, 888/433-5664. Website: www.scangauge.com.

Maradyne High Performance Fans: High-performance electric cooling fans with sealed motors. Molded from glass filled nylon, single- and dual-shrouded fans available. Contact: Susan Robinson, 817/428-3636, ext. 655. Website: www.maradynehp.com.

Exterior Products/Accessories

Retro USA: Retro-styled chrome bumpers, trim and moldings for the 2005–2009 Mustang, 2008–2010 Challenger and 2010 Camaro. CHROME-TECH products feature chrome film laminated to TPO plastic. Other products include paintable retro-styled moldings using TPO plastics and graphics. Contact: Gary Green, garygreen@frontiernet.net, 612/202-8422. Website: www.retrousa.net.

Wheels & Tires

Vossen Wheels: High-end one-piece wheels with sizes ranging from 19-inch to 22-inch and widths up to 12.5 inches. Contact: Jav, jav@vossenwheels.com, 305/463-7778.

Here are the previous additions to the list:

Engine/Underhood Components

AEM Induction: Full line of high-performance air intake systems and air filters for sport/compacts, modern-day musclecars, trucks and SUVs. Gas and diesel applications available. Contact: Lucio Tapia luciot@aemintakes.com.
Website: www.aemintakes.com.

ATS Diesel: Performance products for diesel trucks. Contact: Matt Bozarth, matt@atsdiesel.com, 866/408-7916. Website: www.atsdiesel.com/SEMA.

CFMPlus LLC: Intake manifolds for Dodge 5.9L and Ford 6.0L/7.3L diesel trucks. Contact: John Moore, 760/598-2478, ext. 1. Website: www.cfmplus.com.

Dynojet Research: Automotive performance products (piggyback EMS) for select vehicles. The CMD is designed to optimize the power of your OEM forced induction vehicle while retaining the factory engine management system and allows the user to precisely alter the fuel and boost, working in parallel with OBD2. Also available, the universal Wideband 2 air/fuel ratio monitor with gauge. Check the website for available vehicle applications. Contact: Keith Lockliear, klockliear@dynojet.com, 800/992-4993. Website: www.dynojetcmd.com.

Flowmaster Inc.: Complete exhaust systems and individual Flowmaster and Hushpower mufflers. Contact Cam Benty, cam.benty@flowmastermufflers.com, 707/694-1863.

Gibson Performance Exhaust: Performance stainless steel and aluminized exhaust and street legal headers in chrome, stainless steel and ceramic. Contact: Robert, Gibsonperformance1@gibsonperformance.com, 800/528-3044, ext.112, or visit www.gibsonexhaust.com/sponsorship for the sponsorship form. Website: www.Gibsonperformance.com.

HP Tuners: Chips and tuning. If your SEMA project needs tuning, HP Tuners wants to help you out. Contact Jay Payson, Jay@HPTuners.com. Website: www.HPTuners.com.

ProCharger (ATI): Superchargers and complete intercooled supercharger systems. Contact Cary Pangrac, cpangrac@procharger.com. Website: www.procharger.com.

K&N Engineering Inc.: High-flow intake systems, OE replacement air filters and high-performance oil filters for most vehicles and powersports applications. Contact: Lucio Tapia, luciot@knfilters.com, 951/826-4000, ext. 4350. Website: www.knfilters.com.

Exterior Products/Accessories

Advantage Truck Accessories: Advantage tonneau covers. Contact: Jeff Fink, 574/293-0979. Website: www.AdvantageTruckAccessories.com.

Al’s Liner Do-it-Yourself Coatings: Al’s Do-it-Yourself Bed Liner is an 86% solids content urethane/acrylic blend. The simple batch system allows users to apply in any color, texture or thickness and is ideal for automotive undercoating, interior sound deadening, trailer flooring and much more. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com, 800/999-6841. Website: www.alsliner.com.

BASF Refinish: A full range of waterborne and solvent-borne basecoat systems from Glasurit, R-M and Limco. Also a full line of custom products including Carizzma Colors, Foose Signature series, Flat Paint and Candy's. Contact: Brian Fox (Fox Marketing), brian@foxmarketing.net, 717/718-5505. Website: www.basfrefinish.com.

Bedslide: Bedslide cargo management system offers easy access to your truck's, van's or SUV's load. Contact David McInturf for qualification sheet and to discuss your plans. Contact: David McInturf, 888/807-0099 (toll free), 541/842-2771 (direct). Website: www.bedslide.com.

BOLT Series Locks: Padlocks, receiver locks, cable locks and spare tire locks that work with the vehicle's (GM, Ford, Chrysler or Jeep) key. Contact: Erika Garcia, ggarcia@strattec.com, 414/247-3552. Website: www.BOLTlock.com.

California Pony Cars: Premium-quality products for '64–'73 classic Mustangs and 2005–2011 Mustangs. Contact: Jamiel George, Jamiel@calponycars.com, 909/923-2357. Website: www.calponycars.com.

Eagle Enterprises Inc.: Striping and vinyl graphics. Contact: Wayne Casimir, 800/874-9564, 316/945-8500. Website: www.eagleict.com.

EGR Incorporated: Full line of exterior plastic accessories for trucks, SUVs and cars. Products include, but are not limited to, No Drill Fender Flares, No Drill Hood Protectors, Side WindowVisors and Bed Rail Caps. Contact: info@egrusa.com, 909/923-7075. Website: www.egrusa.com.

Go Industries Inc.: Big Tex and Rancher grille guards. Nerf bars, tailgates and rack systems. Contact: Scott Covelli, scott@goindustries.com, 800/527-4345. Website: www.goindustries.com.

Mile Marker Inc.: Self-recovery electric and hydraulic winches. Contact: Susanne Krentz, susannemk@milemarker.com, 800/426-8646.

Räv Design: Custom design, digital printing and vinyl graphics for any car, truck or SUV. Contact: Nikki Hess, 714/743-3199. Website: www.ravdesign.com.

RETRAX Truck Bed Covers: RETRAX retractable truck bed cover; silver RETRAX retractable truck bed cover. Contact: Andy Nephew, marketing@rolltopcover.com, 701/746-5596. Website: www.rolltopcover.com.

Rhino Linings Corporation: Sprayed-on truck bedliner. Contact: Jenny Clifford jclifford@rhinolinings.com, 858/410-6020. Website: www.rhinolinings.com.

Rocky Ridge Products: Stainless steel roof rack systems for Jeep Wranglers, JK and TJ. Contact: David Barnard, dbarnard@rockyridgeproducts.com, 440/241-3638. Website: www.RockyRidgeProducts.com.

Smartwax: SMARTONE product for all featured vehicles. Contact: Jeff Maldonado, 800/295-8070. Website: www.smartwax.com.

SilverHorse Racing: Tru-Billet interior and exterior products for '94–'11 Ford Mustangs as well as patented Honeycomb trunk panel, grille inserts and flush-mount louvers for the '05–'11 Mustang. Contact: Marcello Canitano, info@silverhorseracing.com. Website: www.SilverHorseRacing.com.

TruXedo: Soft roll-up tonneau covers for any make or model of truck. Contact: Rachel Fernandez, rachelf@truxedo.com, 877/878-9336, ext. 287. Website: www.truxedo.com.

UnderCover Truck Bed Covers: UnderCover SE smooth, ready-to-paint tonneau covers. Contact: Jason Hutchens (jhutchens@undercoverinfo.com) or Sally Goldberg (sally@undercoverinfo.com). Website: www.UnderCoverInfo.com.

Interior Products/Accessories

Bedslide: Bedslide cargo management system offers easy access to the load in your truck, van or SUV. Contact David McInturf for a qualification sheet and to discuss your plans. Contact: David McInturf, 888/807-0099 (toll free), 541/842-2771 (direct). Website: www.bedslide.com.

California Pony Cars: Premium-quality products for '64–'73 classic Mustangs and '05–'11 Mustangs. Contact: Jamiel George, Jamiel@calponycars.com, 909/923-2357. Website: www.calponycars.com.

NRG Innovations: The Gen 3—the newest edition to the quick-release family—making it even easier on the driver to be able to take off the steering wheel. Available colors: red, blue, green, gold, orange, gun metal, black and bronze. Website: www.getnrg.com.

Pecca Leather: Offering customized leather seat covers for domestic and import cars and trucks. Contact: Jeff Cater, jeff@pecca.us, 562/623-0781. Website: www.peccaleather.com.

SilverHorse Racing: Tru-Billet interior and exterior products for '94–'11 Ford Mustangs, as well as patented Honeycomb trunk panel, grille inserts and flush-mount louvers for the '05–'11 Mustang. Contact: Marcello Canitano, info@silverhorseracing.com. Website: www.SilverHorseRacing.com.

Suspension/Brakes

BDS Suspension: Complete suspension systems—from leveling kits to 8-inch lifts—available for most all U.S. manufactured vehicles. Contact: Mike Maloney, mmaloney@bds-suspension.com. Website: www.bds-suspension.com.

Superlift Suspension Systems: Lift and leveling kits for trucks, Jeeps and SUVs. Please allow for a four- to six-week delivery time when requesting products for newly introduced vehicles. Contact: Joey Arbogast, jarbogast@superlift.com, 318/397-3024. Website: www.superlift.com.

Wheels & Tires

PDK Wheels: Custom wheels from Greed Wheels, Von Max Luxury Alloys and Mamba Offroad Alloys ranging in sizes from 15 to 26 inches. Contact: Amber Kliest, amber@pdkwheels.com. Websites: www.greedwheels.com, www.mambawheels.com, www.vonmaxwheels.com.

	Buyers will walk by your booth unless they feel engaged. There are thousands of exhibitors at the Show and only four days to try to visit them all, so get in front of potential buyers as they walk by your booth to capture their attention.

The SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit took place in May and offered participants valuable information, techniques and skills designed to guarantee a profitable and successful SEMA Show experience. The Summit featured key staff and trade show industry experts leading a series of programs created to ensure exhibitors get the most out of the industry’s annual trade event.

Weren’t able to attend the Summit? Not a problem. The valuable educational seminars were recorded and will be presented here in SEMA eNews.

This week’s SEMA Exhibitor Summit installment is based on the “Making a Show Plan” seminar led by Jeff Pressman, CEM, executive vice president and COO, SEMA Show Management.

Click here to watch the video presentation in its entirety.

A different seminar will be highlighted each week in the SEMA eNews. To view other Summit videos click here.

Step 1: Choosing a Booth

There are three types of booths to choose from: linear, peninsula and island. The size of your booth should depend on your budget, amount of equipment and number employees you plan to bring. Make sure you choose the right Show section; for instance if you specialize in racing and performance, choose to display in the Racing & Performance section. Be aware of where your competitors are located. Ask yourself whether your booth size and location will help you to achieve your objectives.

Step 2: Building Your Booth

When designing a booth, think about the weight of your materials because by utilizing lighter materials, you could save thousands of dollars in building and shipping costs.

Make signage interchangeable so you can reuse your booth in case the following year you decide to change branding or the name of a product. Hanging signs should be no more than 8 feet in height and signs facing a neighbor must be located at least 10 feet from their exhibit. Oftentimes, booths are too cluttered and people try to fit too much equipment in too small of a space.

To save costs, if possible, build the sign while you’re in Las Vegas and have Freeman hang it for you, but give them specific instructions as to what height to hang the sign. However, build the booth before bringing it to Vegas and take a photo of it for reference. Devise a backup plan if you end up having missing parts or if your booth gets lost in transit. Have a cell phone number of someone you can reach 24/7 if there are any issues.

Submit notifications as early as possible. Plans for double-decker booths with a covered area greater than 200 sq-ft. must be submitted to the fire marshal. If you plan to have people on the second level, you will need stamped architectural drawings sent in advance.

Plan early and ship your booth far enough in advance so if any problems arise, you can correct them before the Show. Pay attention to deadlines found in the weekly SEMA eNews.

Step 3: Confirm All Your Booth Services Early

The Exhibitor Services Manual is your guide should you have any questions. Use it to your advantage for both labor and hotel rates and order your services early for advance rates. Speak with contractors to verify your order has been submitted properly and fully and confirm all your booth elements, including electrical and data service.

If you ship less than 1,000 lbs. of freight, Freeman, the general services contractor for the Show, will unload the vehicle, deliver equipment to the booth and return it to your vehicle following the Show closing [does not include booth installation]. Freight must arrive in a privately owned or rental vehicle (i.e. car, minivan, U-Haul, trailer or rig driven by an employee). Submit to Show management the Exhibit Space Design Notification and Hanging Sign Design Notification beforehand to make sure there will be no issues.

If you have a vehicle to display, wait until the carpet is down before putting it in your booth, and register early because Mothers offers free vehicle wipe-down service every day of the Show for the first 200 applicants.

Step 4: Take Advantage of the Opportunities Provided

There are unlimited programs and opportunities to get your products out there and connect with buyers besides on the Show floor, including the New Products Showcase, online matchmaking program, SEMA Show Banquet and Media Center press releases, just to name a few, so sign up early for them.

Step 5: Book Your Travel Early

Book your hotel early. There are hotels that start at $39 per night. There’s no reason why your employees have to stay in a room that costs $200 per night. Resort fees are new in Las Vegas so be aware of them. Click here to see which hotels charge resort fees. SEMA has been able to negotiate with most of the hotels in its block to waive resort fees for Show attendees. If you’re flying, book your airline early to get the best rate.

Step 6: Preparing Your Marketing Materials

Have your staff promote your participation. Everyone should put in their e-mail signature lines to visit them at their booth at the SEMA Show. Put it on your company’s website and social media sites. Create a direct link to your exact booth location. Prepare onsite marketing materials in advance and create press releases for the Media Center. Bring a backup of your materials in case you run out

Step 7: Getting Your Staff Ready

Schedule your staff for the run of the Show, from move-in to move-out. Your employees should know what their objective is prior to their arrival in Las Vegas. The Show floor opens two hours early for exhibitors (7:00 a.m.) and it's a good idea to be there early to protect your belongings. At the end of the day, have wrap-up meetings with your employees. Determine what went wrong, what went right and plan for the next day. Also, plan for lunch breaks. Aramark has a new program this year where they will deliver food to your booth at no extra fee.

This one's a no-brainer, but make sure your staff practices good hygiene. No one wants to walk into a booth and be greeted by an offensive stench. Bring extra shirts in case of excessive sweating.

Step 8: You Are Here, Now What?

There are many options when it comes to transportation. Shuttle buses from SEMA partner hotels are free. They start at 7:00 a.m. and go until 6:00 p.m. and run every 20 minutes. The monorail costs money but you don’t have to deal with traffic. Limos cost about as much as taxis in Vegas, so if you have a group of people with a lot of stuff, take a limo. Keep in mind, Vegas is full of temptations, and it’s a direct reflection on your company if someone on your staff gets into trouble.

Step 9: It’s Showtime! Remember…What’s Your Objective?

Don’t pass up an opportunity to get a buyer’s information, but don’t be a scanning nut. Follow-up will still be key. Take your leads with you at the end of the day. Don’t leave them in your booth. Some exhibitors hire “booth babes.” It’s not for everyone, so figure out if it would work for you by asking yourself whom you are trying to attract.

Look inviting. Buyers will walk by unless they feel engaged. There are thousands of exhibitors at the Show and only four days to try to visit them all. Eighty-five percent of buyers come to the Show with a game plan, so get in front of potential buyers as they walk by your booth to capture their attention. Have at least two chairs for you and a buyer to meet but don’t sit down. If you’re sitting in a chair playing with your Blackberry you’re not going to get their attention.

It’s important that you be vigilant and stop suitcasers and outboarders. They are trying to steal your business. If you see them, report them to Show Management immediately.

Step 10: Show’s Over. Now What?

Once the Show’s over and everyone’s settled back into their everyday routine, meet with your staff and choose someone to be responsible for following up with the leads you made at the Show. Determine when and how often leads should be contacted and which method of communication is most effective. Regardless of the method you choose, make it personal. At some point, figure out your return on investment and return on opportunity from the Show.

Onsite, Show Management is always available in the Show office (S229) and the phone number is 702/943-3505. Floor managers are available from the beginning of move-in through move-out. In addition, exhibitor service desks are located in each hall. Always check with Show Management should you have any questions or doubts.

Click here to watch the video presentation in its entirety.

	Buyers will walk by your booth unless they feel engaged. There are thousands of exhibitors at the Show and only four days to try to visit them all, so get in front of potential buyers as they walk by your booth to capture their attention.

The SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit took place in May and offered participants valuable information, techniques and skills designed to guarantee a profitable and successful SEMA Show experience. The Summit featured key staff and trade show industry experts leading a series of programs created to ensure exhibitors get the most out of the industry’s annual trade event.

Weren’t able to attend the Summit? Not a problem. The valuable educational seminars were recorded and will be presented here in SEMA eNews.

This week’s SEMA Exhibitor Summit installment is based on the “Making a Show Plan” seminar led by Jeff Pressman, CEM, executive vice president and COO, SEMA Show Management.

Click here to watch the video presentation in its entirety.

A different seminar will be highlighted each week in the SEMA eNews. To view other Summit videos click here.

Step 1: Choosing a Booth

There are three types of booths to choose from: linear, peninsula and island. The size of your booth should depend on your budget, amount of equipment and number employees you plan to bring. Make sure you choose the right Show section; for instance if you specialize in racing and performance, choose to display in the Racing & Performance section. Be aware of where your competitors are located. Ask yourself whether your booth size and location will help you to achieve your objectives.

Step 2: Building Your Booth

When designing a booth, think about the weight of your materials because by utilizing lighter materials, you could save thousands of dollars in building and shipping costs.

Make signage interchangeable so you can reuse your booth in case the following year you decide to change branding or the name of a product. Hanging signs should be no more than 8 feet in height and signs facing a neighbor must be located at least 10 feet from their exhibit. Oftentimes, booths are too cluttered and people try to fit too much equipment in too small of a space.

To save costs, if possible, build the sign while you’re in Las Vegas and have Freeman hang it for you, but give them specific instructions as to what height to hang the sign. However, build the booth before bringing it to Vegas and take a photo of it for reference. Devise a backup plan if you end up having missing parts or if your booth gets lost in transit. Have a cell phone number of someone you can reach 24/7 if there are any issues.

Submit notifications as early as possible. Plans for double-decker booths with a covered area greater than 200 sq-ft. must be submitted to the fire marshal. If you plan to have people on the second level, you will need stamped architectural drawings sent in advance.

Plan early and ship your booth far enough in advance so if any problems arise, you can correct them before the Show. Pay attention to deadlines found in the weekly SEMA eNews.

Step 3: Confirm All Your Booth Services Early

The Exhibitor Services Manual is your guide should you have any questions. Use it to your advantage for both labor and hotel rates and order your services early for advance rates. Speak with contractors to verify your order has been submitted properly and fully and confirm all your booth elements, including electrical and data service.

If you ship less than 1,000 lbs. of freight, Freeman, the general services contractor for the Show, will unload the vehicle, deliver equipment to the booth and return it to your vehicle following the Show closing [does not include booth installation]. Freight must arrive in a privately owned or rental vehicle (i.e. car, minivan, U-Haul, trailer or rig driven by an employee). Submit to Show management the Exhibit Space Design Notification and Hanging Sign Design Notification beforehand to make sure there will be no issues.

If you have a vehicle to display, wait until the carpet is down before putting it in your booth, and register early because Mothers offers free vehicle wipe-down service every day of the Show for the first 200 applicants.

Step 4: Take Advantage of the Opportunities Provided

There are unlimited programs and opportunities to get your products out there and connect with buyers besides on the Show floor, including the New Products Showcase, online matchmaking program, SEMA Show Banquet and Media Center press releases, just to name a few, so sign up early for them.

Step 5: Book Your Travel Early

Book your hotel early. There are hotels that start at $39 per night. There’s no reason why your employees have to stay in a room that costs $200 per night. Resort fees are new in Las Vegas so be aware of them. Click here to see which hotels charge resort fees. SEMA has been able to negotiate with most of the hotels in its block to waive resort fees for Show attendees. If you’re flying, book your airline early to get the best rate.

Step 6: Preparing Your Marketing Materials

Have your staff promote your participation. Everyone should put in their e-mail signature lines to visit them at their booth at the SEMA Show. Put it on your company’s website and social media sites. Create a direct link to your exact booth location. Prepare onsite marketing materials in advance and create press releases for the Media Center. Bring a backup of your materials in case you run out

Step 7: Getting Your Staff Ready

Schedule your staff for the run of the Show, from move-in to move-out. Your employees should know what their objective is prior to their arrival in Las Vegas. The Show floor opens two hours early for exhibitors (7:00 a.m.) and it's a good idea to be there early to protect your belongings. At the end of the day, have wrap-up meetings with your employees. Determine what went wrong, what went right and plan for the next day. Also, plan for lunch breaks. Aramark has a new program this year where they will deliver food to your booth at no extra fee.

This one's a no-brainer, but make sure your staff practices good hygiene. No one wants to walk into a booth and be greeted by an offensive stench. Bring extra shirts in case of excessive sweating.

Step 8: You Are Here, Now What?

There are many options when it comes to transportation. Shuttle buses from SEMA partner hotels are free. They start at 7:00 a.m. and go until 6:00 p.m. and run every 20 minutes. The monorail costs money but you don’t have to deal with traffic. Limos cost about as much as taxis in Vegas, so if you have a group of people with a lot of stuff, take a limo. Keep in mind, Vegas is full of temptations, and it’s a direct reflection on your company if someone on your staff gets into trouble.

Step 9: It’s Showtime! Remember…What’s Your Objective?

Don’t pass up an opportunity to get a buyer’s information, but don’t be a scanning nut. Follow-up will still be key. Take your leads with you at the end of the day. Don’t leave them in your booth. Some exhibitors hire “booth babes.” It’s not for everyone, so figure out if it would work for you by asking yourself whom you are trying to attract.

Look inviting. Buyers will walk by unless they feel engaged. There are thousands of exhibitors at the Show and only four days to try to visit them all. Eighty-five percent of buyers come to the Show with a game plan, so get in front of potential buyers as they walk by your booth to capture their attention. Have at least two chairs for you and a buyer to meet but don’t sit down. If you’re sitting in a chair playing with your Blackberry you’re not going to get their attention.

It’s important that you be vigilant and stop suitcasers and outboarders. They are trying to steal your business. If you see them, report them to Show Management immediately.

Step 10: Show’s Over. Now What?

Once the Show’s over and everyone’s settled back into their everyday routine, meet with your staff and choose someone to be responsible for following up with the leads you made at the Show. Determine when and how often leads should be contacted and which method of communication is most effective. Regardless of the method you choose, make it personal. At some point, figure out your return on investment and return on opportunity from the Show.

Onsite, Show Management is always available in the Show office (S229) and the phone number is 702/943-3505. Floor managers are available from the beginning of move-in through move-out. In addition, exhibitor service desks are located in each hall. Always check with Show Management should you have any questions or doubts.

Click here to watch the video presentation in its entirety.