Society is an agreement. We are committed to supporting our neighbors, friends, family, and the greater community, ad we hope that they all return the favor. In order to create the most harmonious society possible, we must listen to one another and behave responsibly.
A trade show is a microcosm of civilization. It is a coordinated exchange of ideas and personalities that encourages us all to consider other perspectives. After all, what is the purpose of gathering in solidarity if we have no interest in seeing the world through someone else’s eyes?
In the spirit of collaboration and cohesiveness, we have compiled a few helpful reminders on how to stay safe and healthy this expo season. The novel coronavirus has driven us apart for long enough; now it is time to come together.
SIX FEET OF RESPECT
If we had a nickel for every time we’ve heard the term “social distancing,” we could buy a few expo halls. But clichés become clichés for a reason. There is proven value to the science behind staying at arm’s length from others, and it’s nothing to sneeze at.
Studies indicate that the average cough or sneeze generates droplets that travel an average of six feet. These particulates may carry influenza, bacteria, or the much-discussed COVID-19 virus. After hovering six feet, the aspirated droplets tend to fall, at which point they are less likely to be ingested by an innocent bystander.
The proteins that cradle the dangerous novel coronavirus bind to receptors in the human body. Many of these receptors line the nasal passages, so it is important to consider that six-foot trajectory with transmission in mind. If someone coughs at a safe distance, their droplets have less of a chance to invade your nostrils. But are you confident that you are giving your fellow trade show attendees a full six feet of breathing room? When in doubt, space it out!
MAY I MASK YOU A QUESTION?
Another great way to stay healthy in an expo scenario is to – say it with us now – wear a mask. They may be mildly inconvenient for humans, but they are a real pain in the neck for COVID-19.
Trade shows are a fantastic opportunity to network. Guests are eager to schmooze and converse, especially after months of being cooped up indoors. We celebrate your outgoing nature, and we can’t wait to engage in a discussion with you, but it is vitally important to wear a mask during your next face-to-face.
Speaking is a very efficient way to spread the novel coronavirus. An experiment documented by the New England Journal of Medicine details how many particulates are generated when a speaker uttered a simple phrase: stay healthy. These aspirates were studied under special laser illumination as they traveled from the mouth and into the world. When the orator held a washcloth in front of his face, those particulates were stopped in their tracks.
If you plan on presenting your ideas verbally at the next trade show you attend, please do so from behind the safety of a mask. Spread your message, but please don’t spread any communicable diseases. Your clients will thank you!
KEEP IT CLEAN
Shaking hands may be out of fashion this year, but it’s always a good idea to keep them clean. Washing helps eliminate the spread of COVID-19, especially as you set up and break down the many components of your trade show exhibit.
In addition to keeping your booth area sanitized as best you can, it is important to keep yourself healthy. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face if you are unable to keep your mitts clean. Carry hand sanitizer to help you navigate the new normal, and wave hi to your visitors with sparkling digits!
Instead of viewing these pandemic protocols as a hassle, consider the opportunities inherent in them. For example, hand sanitizer isn’t just a great way to stay healthy; it is also a welcome addition to any swag bag. Your guests will appreciate finding a tube of wellness in their satchel, so be sure to brand it with your logo and messaging. Sample sized hand sanitizers are like the handshake you want to give but in a responsible, portable format.
STAY CONNECTED, YET SAFELY DISTANCED
We live in an online world. Business is conducted digitally with increasing efficiency and volume, but we don’t want to lose the human touch altogether. Your tradeshow presence should embrace technology while making the most of that in-person appeal.
Case in point: registration. Weeks before you even arrive at your next expo, you will undoubtedly be tracking down leads and drumming up interest. The conversation has already begun online, so be sure to keep it productive across every conceivable platform. Encourage potential clients to register for meeting times and engagement opportunities prior to the trade show. This respects their desire to sign up in a hands-free, sterilized manner, but it also allows you to regulate the flow of traffic at the expo.
Create a calendar of events to manage your audience. Schedule your presentations to pulse visitors in small groups so they can socially distance without the need to stand far back from the display. Leverage the rapport you established online and build upon that in person.
Even after the show ends, the conversation should continue. Follow up with your digital mailing list, sharing highlights from the trade show in a carefully crafted video recap. This embraces clients who were unable (or unwilling) to attend the expo and furthers your overall campaign in a digital space.
Every lead is a potential sale, and every client deserves respect. Celebrate their boundaries and it will ultimately bring you closer together. To learn more about trade show etiquette in the era of social distancing, contact the experts at Unveil Production Group.