U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

Communication Standards and Guidelines

Tips on How to Get the Most Out of a Show

• Look the Part

  Create a good impression for EERE by looking polished and professional. Wear business-like, but comfortable attire-and don't forget your nametag. Get plenty of rest before the show, and pace yourself during the show (you will need breaks, so schedule them).

• Mind the Exhibit Booth

  Visitors will walk past an empty booth. They will perceive your absence as a lack of interest in providing information. Try not to leave the booth unattended. If you leave for breaks, have another staff member fill in for you. And, while you're minding the booth, keep it presentable - free of food, clutter and noisy distractions.

• Be Approachable

  Visitors want face-to-face communication with EERE representatives. Use nonverbal cues to show genuine interest in talking with them: smile, make eye contact, extend your hand. Then engage them in conversation.

• Listen

  Once you have their attention, give them your attention. Listen carefully to the visitors' needs and interests. Find out what they know about EERE's mission and programs. Focus your conversation on their interests. Avoid overwhelming the visitors with more information or literature than they need or want. However, make sure they know how to get more information, through a specific contact at EERE or by visiting our Web site. Remember, it's http://www.eere.energy.gov/.

• Know Your Stuff

  To visitors, you are EERE. They'll expect you to be knowledgeable about all of EERE's programs, but realistically, some questions will stump you. Offer to find the answers and follow up.

• Take Notes

  A key reason for EERE's involvement in shows is to develop new stakeholder contacts and identify potential opportunities for assistance or partnering. Ask for business cards with accurate mailing or contact information. Write down any specific questions or other important information to help you remember your conversations with people you meet. Keep your notes and cards together.

• Other Tips

  • Send a map out to customers prior to the show and circle your exhibit space.

  • If people walk up and don't get "what you do" in 3-5 seconds, you've missed your audience. Be creative; this is a festive atmosphere.

  • People tend to traffic to the right when entering a show, also by the end of a show people are too tired to go to the left and see what they missed.

  • Try to avoid isolated corners.

  • Against walls is good - you can go higher with displays, less restrictions.

  • You may be able to upgrade to a better space the day of the show; check to see if there has been a paid cancellation, and then consider moving.

  • Map out the show when arriving and plan to talk to other exhibitors (often your biggest customers are exhibitors)

    .