Tips to make that trade show visit a success
SEATTLE -- Despite our slow economy, many trade shows are reporting increased foot traffic this year.
Trade shows are excellent for getting ideas and tracking trends. And while most show promoters do some screening of their vendors, it's ultimately up to you.
Beyond being a convenient way to check out products and get expert advice, trade shows are also big business. Vendors pay big bucks to get in. At some shows, the exhibitors even have to pay the promoter a percentage of what they sell.
And while most show promoters do some screening before letting a business in, that's no guarantee.
Every year, I get trade show contractor complaints from consumers who paid thousands up front, only to have the contractor fall short. So before you sign a contract, do your homework.
Get the contractor's license number and see how long they've been in business. Verify the license and bonding with the State Department of Labor and Industries. Check for liens or claims against the company. And, check at least two recent references in person so you can see their work, and talk to real customers.
Also, whether you're remodeling, buying a boat, or sprucing up your landscape, consumer trade shows are a great way to plan and shop under one big roof.
But when it comes to knowing who you're dealing with, the buck stops with you. And be aware, if you sign a contract at a trade show, there is no 3-day cooling off period. Once you sign, you're committed, so if you're pressured to commit on the spot, just walk away.
The Department of Labor and Industries often sets up a booth at shows dealing with home repair and home remodeling. Stop by the booth and get information about picking a good contractor.
Also, be careful about entering contests and filling out cards with your personal information. Contests and contact cards are often shared, and used to hit you up for other product and services over the phone.
For more information:
www.ftc.gov
www.lni.wa.gov
www.atg.wa.gov
Trade shows are excellent for getting ideas and tracking trends. And while most show promoters do some screening of their vendors, it's ultimately up to you.
Beyond being a convenient way to check out products and get expert advice, trade shows are also big business. Vendors pay big bucks to get in. At some shows, the exhibitors even have to pay the promoter a percentage of what they sell.
And while most show promoters do some screening before letting a business in, that's no guarantee.
Every year, I get trade show contractor complaints from consumers who paid thousands up front, only to have the contractor fall short. So before you sign a contract, do your homework.
Get the contractor's license number and see how long they've been in business. Verify the license and bonding with the State Department of Labor and Industries. Check for liens or claims against the company. And, check at least two recent references in person so you can see their work, and talk to real customers.
Also, whether you're remodeling, buying a boat, or sprucing up your landscape, consumer trade shows are a great way to plan and shop under one big roof.
But when it comes to knowing who you're dealing with, the buck stops with you. And be aware, if you sign a contract at a trade show, there is no 3-day cooling off period. Once you sign, you're committed, so if you're pressured to commit on the spot, just walk away.
The Department of Labor and Industries often sets up a booth at shows dealing with home repair and home remodeling. Stop by the booth and get information about picking a good contractor.
Also, be careful about entering contests and filling out cards with your personal information. Contests and contact cards are often shared, and used to hit you up for other product and services over the phone.
For more information:
www.ftc.gov
www.lni.wa.gov
www.atg.wa.gov