Actual dialogue from a recent trade show:
Me: Traffic’s really down this year, huh?
Exhibitor: Yeah, a lot less people. Seems like about HALF.
Me: Well, it’s not the greatest destination.
Exhibitor: No kidding. But, it is what it is.
Me: And it sure doesn’t help being in the back of the hall.
Exhibitor: Well, Whatcha gonna do? It’s all they had left.
Me: So, how’s the show been for you?
Exhibitor: Oh. FANTASTIC. Having a great time. Met some amazing people…
This was NOT the answer I expected. Why the heck was this guy having such a great time? Was he delusional? Heavily medicated? I had to find out. So, I stepped away from his little pop-up booth and watched him for awhile. And in ten minutes, I knew exactly WHY he was having so much fun and meeting so many ‘amazing people.’
He was smiling. A LOT. And talking to everyone who came by. Small talk. Commenting on shoes, ties, hairstyles, how much free stuff people had accumulated. The guy was an ambassador of good will. And it worked. People stopped and chatted. They laughed. And many of them asked HIM what HIS company did.
So, this week’s blog has a very simple point:
When you’re in your booth, SMILE …. a LOT. Chat to people walking by. Don’t worry about selling your stuff. Just talk. And if you’re not in a great mood, then for crying out loud … FAKE IT.
I promise. You will feel better. And you’ll have a much better time on the Exhibit Floor. And you may meet some amazing people …