The show’s over, let’s talk about it.

After months of preparation and planning, the convention your team has prepared for is over. The exhibit has been dismantled, you’re back in the office, and your sales team is following up on leads made at the show. Before you close that file and bookmark this event a success, take time to sit with your team for a post-show debrief.

Your post-show debrief should help determine what was successful at this year’s event and how you can improve your current plan for next year. Ideally, you should sit with both your sales and leadership team to help determine their perspectives. Your sales team might inform you about things that would help them close a deal on the show floor; maybe they need more lounge seating or even a conference space. Your leadership team can help guide the branding and show presence to determine if this is the message your company wants to portray in your industry. Not sure where to start? Check out the list of questions we created below!

Post-Show Debrief Questions

TO ASK YOUR SALES TEAM

1. Did the exhibit help attract attendees? How about decision makers?
2. Did the exhibit match the product/services you were trying to sell?
3. What changes would you make to our trade show exhibit?
4. How did you utilize the exhibit?

TO ASK YOUR LEADERSHIP TEAM

1. Did the exhibit fit our brand?
2. What did you think of our presence at this show?
3. What did you see on the show floor that you would like to replicate in our space?
4. Should we keep a cohesive brand image by reutilizing the same/similar exhibit again or refresh our exhibit with a new look each year?

TO PREPARE FOR THE NEXT EVENT

1. What were the challenges you faced this year regarding your trade show plan?
2. Did you give yourself enough time to prepare for this event? (If not, look back at your timeline and reassess when to start planning for your show in 2025)
3. Are you going to stay with the same booth size?
   • If the answer if no, will you need to go bigger or smaller?
   • How will that affect your current booth layout?
4. What obstacles did you face with your current exhibit structure?

Need a new exhibit vendor?

If you’re looking for a new exhibit vendor to help with your trade show program, schedule a consultation with our team. We have capabilities ranging from design to installation and dismantle. Our office is conveniently located near McCormick Place in Chicago, IL. With over 50 years of experience helping clients with their exhibits at shows ranging from The Inspired Home Show, Fabtech, and more we’re sure we can help make you stand out on the show floor!