Introduction: 🎙️ Hello, everybody! Welcome back to #CommTALK. Today's episode is extra special as we dive into the fascinating world of trade shows. Joining us is our friend and trade show expert, Denny Pavan. In this four-part series, we'll explore the ins and outs of trade show communications. Welcome, Denny! 🌐

Studio Vibes: Dan: How do you like our new studio? Denny: It's great! It's gonna get even better. 🎉

Denny's Trade Show Experience: Denny shares his extensive experience in the trade show industry, from managing large exhibits to touring shows like IMAX in Las Vegas for destinations worldwide. He highlights the diversity of exhibits, from massive country displays to smaller, specialized ones like the EQIP exposition for lawn and garden products. 🌍🌷

Evolution of Trade Shows: Trade shows, a tradition dating back thousands of years, have evolved significantly. Denny reflects on the growth during the 20th century, driven by World Expositions and the continuous display of new products, technologies, and innovations. 🚀

Key Components of Trade Show Communications: Denny identifies four essential parts of the trade show world: the exhibit, pre-show preparation, on-site activities, and post-show follow-up. Each phase involves intricate communication strategies, incorporating social media, video, audio, and even AI. 📢💻

Crafting a Compelling Exhibit: The discussion shifts to the exhibit itself, emphasizing the importance of a strong brand image. Denny advises against overwhelming displays, encouraging exhibitors to focus on engaging elements that draw visitors in. He explores innovative ideas, including the use of models and interactive displays like the giant Barbie box for selfie photos. 🖼️🤳

Engaging Your Audience: Dan and Denny stress the significance of engagement during the show, from approachable staff to interactive attractions. Denny shares examples of successful engagement strategies, like the selfie booth and a guitar giveaway, emphasizing the dual purpose of attracting attention and generating leads. 🤝🎸

Building Leads and Contacts: The conversation wraps up with a focus on the importance of leads in a trade show setting. Exhibitors aim not only to engage but also to build valuable contacts. Denny underscores the power of creativity in making your brand message work and leaves us eagerly anticipating the next three episodes. 📊📞

Closing: Dan expresses gratitude for Denny's insights, and they look forward to continuing the trade show conversation in the upcoming episodes. Stay tuned for more insights, tips, and strategies in the world of trade show communications. Thanks for tuning in to #CommTALK! 🎧👂