So, I just got the latest newsletter from TSEA (the Tradeshow Exhibitors Association http://www.tsea.org/), it is their "tip of the week". Most of these tips are good common sense stuff, but a few come across my screen and really shine. Not because they are brilliant and make me think of new things, but because they make me sit back and go "huh, that is really a good point".

Today's was one of those moments, the article was written by Susan A. Friedmann, CSP or The Tradeshow Coach as she bills herself. The e-mail was about what not to say or do when on the show floor. Specifically, don't give away too much information.

The premise is that in our excitement to wow or woo the potential customer, we may give them too much inside information about our company, product or service and that the recipient of this information may be a member of the press or with one of our competitors. For example, you have a dandy new product that should have hit the market a few weeks ago, but is behind for whatever reason. You spill the beans to a reporter or a competitor and the next thing you know the industry press is reporting that your company is about to collapse or your competition hurries their new advancement up to match your new launch date.

Would throw in a link to this article, but it appears that it is only in it's e-mail form.

I see the point, I really do. So, that being said, watch what you say. Remember a couple of tips that I always go with.


When on the show floor, ONLY discuss positive things about your company, product or service.


Take a simple step to know who you are talking with, introduce yourself and ask to whom you are speaking (we all know that, but I also get excited and start blathering on).


Get their business card first (this should be a no-brainer, we are at the show to get leads in the first place).


There ya go. Not sure if Ms. Friedman puts these articles on her website but just in case someone wants to take a look it is http://www.thetradeshowcoach.com/