As we count down the days to the end of Gateway CEO, there are two more amazing events for students to walk through as part of this amazing experience. The Gateway CEO Trade Show is scheduled for April 26 at 1:30 in the Barrel Room at the Press House Old Herald Brewery & Distillery in Collinsville.
Trade Show is the official launch for our student businesses that they have been working so hard on this past semester. Not only is Revity Credit Union an investor in our program, our friend Lacy Able, Business Development Representative is our go-to for sharing what a great booth can look like on Trade Show day. Here are her tips for our Gateway CEO entrepreneurs:
- Trade Show sets brand awareness for CEO and also the individual businesses. Having music helps set the scene. Having the right play list, at the right volume is critical. Students will need to work with the neighbors to coordinate speakers and atmosphere they want to create.
- How should you dress? Depends on your audience. This event is open to the general public and will draw friends and family of CEO plus hopeful for some additional guests from the restaurant and being near uptown Collinsville. Always wear comfortable shoes. Branded wear for your business, Gateway CEO branding, or aligning with the them of your business also works. Be sure you are covered from head to toe appropriately with bending/moving/set up that will happen during the event.
- LOOKING YOUR BEST is important. When you look good, you feel good. Remember to be clean and polished, including hair and nails. You are representing your business!
- Set up of Booth - Lots of levels always makes your table/area more attractive. For a service business - think slideshow/posters of before and after. For product business - what will best showcase your products? Clothing racks, jewelry stands, crates, three tier trays.
- Have variety! Candy, drawings for product, service, percent off. Maybe it's yard games, simulation swings, etc! For clothing, add a stand up mirror. Have fun and be creative with what brings the crowd to stop by your booth!
- Speaking with guests! Sometimes you may have one person or several mingling. Always make eye contact and invite others to check out your items. Speak loudly and politely. Remember to keep shoulders forward at all times. Don't stand with arms folded. Keep yourself open.
- Bring a friend to help. Your partner in the crime for the day has to be on mission with you for your best results. They can help with selections, check outs, checking inventory, etc.
- The details matter! Be sure to have easy to read product list/pricing, ways to sign up for future service. How will you collect cash/card? Venmo or something else? Business cards, packaging, care cards, etc will all help provide a great experience for your customers.
Have fun and enjoy this special day that you have all worked for! Don't forget to come see us!! Thank you Lacy for your expertise!
