The Automechanika Frankfurt trade fair is just around the corner, and almost all of us have it marked as one of our must-see visits.
Every trade fair is a great opportunity to establish or strengthen business relationships, but since our time is limited, we must make the most of it.
Whether you are a trade show veteran or someone making their first visit to a trade show, it is important to review what to keep in mind:
Get information in advance and organise your visit. Visit the fair’s website to find out how to get there and access the site (with the entrance ticket you can use the public service for free, as long as you are travelling to or from the fair) and check the opening days and hours (from 10 to 13 September 2024 from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on 14 September from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).
Buy your ticket to the fair. The earlier you do it, the cheaper it usually is. You can also try to ask a supplier or client who is participating as an exhibitor to provide you with a voucher to obtain the ticket.
Plan your visits. It is important to check the list of exhibitors to find out in advance which companies will be present at the fair and try to arrange a meeting in advance. You should also check out the events taking place during these days. Plan a list of interesting visits/events on a sheet of paper, noting the day/time, pavilion, stand and/or location of the event.
Make the most of your time. You can use your time between meetings and events to recharge your batteries and grab a bite to eat (there are plenty of restaurants and food stalls both inside and outside the halls). You can also walk through other unplanned pavilions where sure you will find something of interest.
Materials you should bring. You should travel as light as possible, but don’t forget to bring with you: a bag, a laptop if necessary, a notepad and a pen (or otherwise a mobile phone), a charger, presentation sheets for your company/service and a lots business cards.
Elevator pitch. Prepare, memorize and rehearse a one-minute pitch that presents your company/service and fits the solution to a need or problem of your potential client.
When the fair is over. Save all the new contacts you have made in your CRM, review and analyse all the material you have collected, and finally make the contacts and arrangements you have committed to.
As a final tip, wear comfortable shoes because you will be walking a lot and try to dress as lightly as possible depending on the weather and the dress code you must follow.
I hope to see you at the fair and enjoy the good company of professionals and friends!
