Trade shows are teeming with potential customers. But to get the conversation started with these prospects, you first have to grab their attention. With potentially hundreds of companies clamoring to be noticed all at once, drawing booth traffic isn’t for the faint of heart. And because scientists tend to be skeptical about new products and services, it’s crucial that a company has a meaningful engagement with them without shying away from their overall messaging.
While it’s important to stay on brand, you’ve also got to appeal to the masses with games and giveaways that will make them smile — and sometimes even stand in line. Here are some of the wackiest gimmicks we’ve seen in our science trade show days.
Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream Station
What’s that saying again? The way to a customers’ heart is through his stomach? Grab show floor attendees’ attention with a winning combination of science and sweet treats.
A Photo Booth
It’s all about the props, really.
A Pippette-Tip Gown from Project Runway
You can’t wear it, but you can take your picture with it!
DNA Chopper
The only ride fit for a molecular hero.
Massage Chairs
Please don’t ask them to think on their feet.
Captivate with Fire
If only we had some marshmallows.
Photo-Worthy Quasi-Celebrities
Forget the A list, the B list, and the C list. But the rest of the alphabet is all yours.
Caricatures
A company-wide email is a must.
The Price is Right Wheel
Who can say no to a quick spin?
Molecular Gastronomy
After hours wandering the show floor, a dry ice cocktail is just what the Ph.D. ordered.
Experimenting with new approaches to booth traffic can pay off big at trade shows, but always look for a creative way to build the new “gimmick” into your overall brand, theme for the show and communications. The end result will be a booth that attendees will not only talk about with their colleagues at the show, but will help them recall the products and services that your company offers long after the show is done. What are the funniest or weirdest trade show gimmicks you’ve seen?
