Body language is a powerful form of communication that can be used to great effect at trade shows and exhibitions. In a crowded and noisy environment, it can be difficult to stand out from the competition, but effective body language can help you make a positive first impression and build trust with potential customers.
In this blog, you’ll uncover tips and tricks about how you can use your body language to your advantage when you next exhibit and make it your most profitable one yet.
Let’s investigate this interesting topic.
Body language and tradeshows
Trade shows and exhibitions are a great opportunity to connect with potential customers and partners. However, with so many people and companies vying for attention, it can be difficult to stand out from the crowd. That’s where effective body language comes in.
By using positive body language, you can project an image of confidence, competence, and trustworthiness. You can also use body language to create a sense of rapport with potential customers and make them feel comfortable approaching you.
But what is positive body language? Here are some tips for using body language effectively at trade shows and exhibitions:
Service with a smile
A smile is a universal sign of warmth and welcome. It’s a great way to make a positive first impression and put potential customers at ease. You naturally appear to be friendlier and more welcoming, which translates to your attendees being more likely to approach you and get down to business.
The eye of the tiger
Eye contact is another important form of nonverbal communication. It shows that you’re interested in what the other person is saying and that you’re paying attention. However, it’s important to avoid staring (unless you are preparing for a boxing match with the attendee on the booth), which can be seen as aggressive, especially at other visitor’s badges whilst talking to the person in front of you.
Perfect posture
Good posture projects confidence and makes you look more approachable. Avoid slouching or fidgeting, which can make you look nervous or disinterested.
Open and friendly always wins
Crossed arms and legs can make you look closed off and unapproachable. Instead, try to keep your arms and legs uncrossed and your body facing the other person. If you have no one to talk to, then show you are ready to talk some by adopting an open body posture.
Gestures can help
Gestures can be a great way to add emphasis to your words and make you more animated. However, it’s important to use them sparingly and avoid overdoing it.
Body language and customer engagement
Body language can have a significant impact on customer engagement. When used effectively, it can help to build trust, rapport, and credibility. It can also make potential customers feel more comfortable and willing to do business with you. One study by Quantified Analytics found that people who made eye contact 60-70% of the time were more likely to create an emotional connection.
Expo Stars top tips for booth staff
Since 2007, we’ve featured heavily at exhibitions across the world which is why we want to share with you a short series of tips below to ensure you’re prepared heading into your next exhibition.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the other people in the booth and the overall atmosphere. This will help you adjust your body language accordingly.
- Be prepared. Practice your pitch and answers to common questions before the trade show. This will help you feel more confident and relaxed when you’re interacting with potential customers.
- Be enthusiastic. Show your excitement about your products or services. This will make potential customers more interested in what you have to say.
- Be patient. It takes time to build rapport with potential customers. Don’t be discouraged if you get several rejections on the run. Just keep smiling, making eye contact, and approaching attendees. It is a numbers game.
Use body language to your advantage at trade shows and exhibitions to help you make a positive first impression, build trust with potential customers, and increase your chances of closing deals.
Download our guide on body language and exhibiting here.
Let your body talk
We love sharing our exhibition knowledge and we want you to use this as a guide when you need a little update on how to use positive body language to project an image of confidence, competence, and trustworthiness on the exhibition floor. Want to know more about our exhibition training? Get in touch.