Posts Tagged ‘customer service’

The Secret Behind A Top Selling Trade Show Display

Friday, September 24th, 2010

Not to toot our own horn, but Godfrey has been in the custom display business for a long time and we know what we are good at. Sure we can supply you with a literature display that looks like a modern work of art. Yes nobody can beat our pop-up displays and kiosk designs. I dare you to find a rental program better than the one we offer featuring a level of quality better than anyone else. Yet there is one thing that Godfrey does better than all else and that’s our ability to create a custom exhibit just as technical as anything else on the market that is completely portable and looks like it  all came in one piece.

A couple of pedestals, a few posters, some counter space, and two or three fabric walls may not seem like much on their own, but put together and what you get is a first class exhibit that is very easy to transport from one location to the next. As we our saying goes “A portable display shouldn’t look portable.” This phrase is more than just a campaign slogan or marketing tag line, it goes straight to the heart of how Godfrey designs every single display it sends out the door. From the moment you click over to  Godfrey’s amazing design gallery to that first conversation with your personal project manager, Godfrey begins to narrow down the list of options to the point where the end result is a custom built trade show exhibit that is sure to meet your every expectation. Plus you are constantly kept up to date with what is going on with your display through email, video, and pictures. By putting together all the pieces of the puzzle such as our amazing Truss, Pod Forum, and TechForm systems the end result is a custom built display that looks like it is one complete structure.

If you are a trade show vendor and are looking for a first class custom built display that looks like it was built there on the spot, look no further than Godfrey! Contact us today at 1-800-789-9394!

Table Top Displays For The Business Professional

Monday, September 20th, 2010

We’ve talked a lot about first impressions lately specifically how to execute the perfect handshake and the importance of remembering first names, both of which are extremely important when attempting to build a relationship with a customer. If you are salesman who travels all across the country bouncing from one meeting after another, then probably more than anyone else you know how important it is to be prepared when meeting a new client for the first time. A good salesman has to somehow find a way to put all that stress from the hours they were delayed at the airport, the horrible taxi cab ride over, not to mention the busted elevator, and present themselves with confidence to the customer.

The last thing a salesman has time for is to fiddle around with a display that requires a degree from M.I.T. to setup. Instead they need something that takes little effort and time, yet looks like it cost a million bucks. The ShowMax Table Top Display does all of this without sacrificing the quality that people have come to expect from Godfrey.  What makes the ShowMax simply the best portable table top display on the market isn’t the fact that it gets one or two things right, but that it succeeds on several levels including:

  • Portability- The ShowMax is extremely lightweight and features two in-line skate wheels allowing for easy transport. Plus it folds up into a convenient size complete with a handle at the top.
  • Setup- Simply unfold the case, attach a custom designed header, a couple halogen lights at the top, and in seconds your presentation is ready to commence
  • Quality- Like all of Godfrey’s displays and exhibits, the ShowMax is custom built to the customer specifications. This means that the customer decides just how much detail they want the display to have and which of the Velcro ready fabrics work best for their particular needs.

Available with optional transport bag, the ShowMax Table Top Display is the perfect display for anyone who finds themselves having to give presentations repeatedly and is in need of a quick and easy display made from the highest quality materials.

Timberwolves Prove Honesty Is Always The Best Policy

Friday, September 17th, 2010

http://www.nationalsportsbeat.com

As a vendor it’s your job to attract the customer’s attention any way you can. It’s not uncommon to see everything from scantily clad models to circus clowns making their way through an event in support of a company. And let’s face it most trade shows do have that circus atmosphere what with all the loud music, flashing lights, and costumed characters running around. While this type of guerilla marketing does attract attention, it tends to take the customer’s eye away from what the main focus should be and that’s what the vendor’s message is. The result of being the life of the party is that once the show is over, very few in attendance will remember less about who put on the event and more about the guys juggling the flaming chainsaws. Not that prop games such football toss or Plinko don’t have their place at a trade show. After all, the most important thing is getting that foot in the door. With that said though vendors need to remember that through all the glitz and glitter if the customer doesn’t walk away with the sponsor’s name on their tongue, all that shock and awe missed its target.

 Believe it or not there are other qualities that customers appreciate in the company’s they do business with rather than providing them with a good time. Among those traits honesty is considered one of the highest. For some adverting and honesty may be on completely separate ends of the spectrum, but if you’re a consumer looking to spend a large sum of money in a time when our nation’s economy is leaving everyone counting pennies; being honest is a breath of fresh air. An example of this can be seen this week in a recent full page ad featuring the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves who continuously seem to be disappointing fans with one losing season after another. In the letter the team president tells fans “We now have more shooting, athleticism and depth at every position, which will make us a better team this season. So will we challenge for the NBA championship this year? Not likely. Ouch. This honesty thing is a bit painful. But the reality is, we still need that one dominant player…..We are confident, however, that this team will be exciting to watch. For the first time in years Wolves fans are going to feel like they’re missing out if they aren’t in the arena. So in addition to player development we’re working hard on fan development, starting with variable pricing and Flex Pack ticket packages that let you pick the games and seats that you want. The bottom line for fans is: We’re making it easier than ever for you to be part of our turnaround.”

Instead of fireworks and magicians, consider an approach similar to the Timberwolves: Custom built fabric walls, soft lighting behind a backdrop of hand selected images, a hanging banner overhead, a conference table to the side, a few chairs for visitors, and a video monitor providing constant information on how your product will change the lives of all who try it. All of this covered in eye catching colors and featuring your company’s name and logo emblazoned in multiple places. No tricks. Nothing to disguise who you are. Just an honest approach at presenting yourself to the customer.

The Power Of The Proper Handshake

Wednesday, September 15th, 2010

According to some historians the handshake dates all the way back to the days of Camelot when kings and knights would shake a person’s hand in order to make sure no weapons were being concealed.  Today the handshake is a sign of respect, a gesture indicating that a deal is done, and for some it’s just as much an indication of who a person is as anything that is being said by them. A proper handshake takes practice and isn’t something you do half heartedly, it takes a commitment to the action and a lack thereof could lead to a major miscommunication.

Types Of Common Handshake Errors

  • Make sure you get in there- When shaking hands you want to make sure you complete the motion so that the hands are pressing together in equal proportions. If you don’t commit, the person you are introducing yourself to may get a handful of fingers and it could appear that you are not interested in meeting them.
  • Avoid sweaty palms- There’s nothing worse than to stick your hand out only to be met with a cold sweaty hand. Sweaty palms could indicate that the person is nervous or lacks confidence. One good trick for avoiding this is to keep a tissue in your pocket at all times and occasionally stick your hand inside to keep them dry.
  • The shake is not a test of strength- While you definitely don’t want to extend a limp wrist to a person you are introducing yourself too, trying to break their hand won’t do you any favors either. The trick is to be firm without squeezing in such away to cause any type of discomfort. A firm handshake exudes confidence, will power, strength, and a bit of attitude. Remember that it’s important to not over due it without appearing weak at the same time.

A good handshake has the ability to make every first impression a good one similar to the way that a custom designed trade show exhibit can also make a person feel an immediate connection with a company. Whether your company is in the market for something portable and easy to put up, an exhibit for outdoor use, or want to show how much they care about the planet by purchasing an environmentally friendly trade show display; Godfrey has just the thing you need to turn that all important first impression into the start of a beautiful friendship.

Trade Show Tips On How To Remember Names!

Monday, September 13th, 2010

We’ve all heard the term ‘you never get a chance to make a first impression’, but what happens when it comes time to make that second impression and you can’t remember the other person’s name. With all the chaos that continuously swirls around each of us, it’s easy to understand how we could forget a person’s name, but that still doesn’t make it any less awkward or damaging to the relationship. I use the term relationship here because exchanging names is the first thing that takes place at the moment you meet someone.  When you are able to recite someone’s name back to them weeks or months later, that person immediately gets the feeling that the previous encounter between the two of you meant something. That in your mind they stood out among others you met and have placed a value on that encounter.

Still with thousands of people walking past your trade show exhibit every day, it’s not always easy to remember every single person you shook hands with….but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.

Tips On Remembering Names

  • Say It Back To Them- The moment someone tells you their name begin to look for ways to work it into the conversation. For example: “Well that’s a nice dress to you’re wearing Nancy.” “So what brings you out in this kind of weather today Frank?” “Steve I gotta tell ya, this is the best deal of the whole event.” By doing this not only are you making a connection with the consumer, but you’re e also memorizing their name at the same time.
  • Ask Them To Spell It- We are a world of unique individuals and to match our individual personalities, we want are names to be just as special, even it is in spelling alone. Christy could be Kristy, Melanie might be Mailenie, Katherine may prefer Catherine. The point is that if you are making notes on whom you are seeing during the event; don’t be too shy to ask how a person spells their name. Again this lets the visitor know you are giving them your full attention and that what they have to say is important to you.
  • Give The Name Meaning- In school we are taught that one of the best ways to remember something is to give it meaning. AU is the scientific abbreviation for gold; I know this because someone once taught me the sentence “A-U bring me back my gold!!” Using the above examples: Kristy is spelled like Krispy as in Kripsy Crème Donuts. Mailenie might remind you to check your mail every day. Catherine might be the name of your favorite song which is also spelled the same way.

Remembering a potential customers name is important and so is making sure they remember your name. A custom built display from Godfrey featuring your company’s name and logo all around your exhibit is a sure fire way to guarantee that when it comes time to meet again, there will be no need for reintroductions.

 

Display Rental Program Getting Corporate America Back To Work!!

Friday, September 10th, 2010

It was just last month that we brought the story about growing concerns that the economy was going to take a step back from its current growth trend. At the time some experts were saying that due to an unexpected slow down they “were expecting, raising concern about growth – or even another recession – in the months ahead.” Adding that “People are continuing to cut back, and that could mean that third-quarter growth will be the worst since the end of the recession. The slowing growth path leaves the possibility of a double-dip recession on the table.” Well now comes a report from American Express that not only contradicts this report, but it appears that Corporate America may just be looking once again at putting more money into the trade show market. According to Gunther Bright, VP of the credit card giants Global Client Group, “We’re seeing a significant shift to a more positive outlook among finance executives as companies have moved from simply surviving the present to investing in growth for the future. At the same time, the experience of the recession set the stage for a newfound and long-term focus on financial discipline and management rigor”

Regardless of which report you believe is the most realistic view of what is about to happen to the economy, it’s hard to deny the fact that the only way to know for sure is to get in there and test things out for yourself. In the past this may have meant spending thousands of dollars on a custom trade show display and accepting the consequences win, lose, or draw, but with Godfrey’s display rental program figuring out which style of exhibit will generate the most sales for your company has never been easier.

Godfrey’s rental program offers customers a chance to see for themselves just what a custom designed trade show exhibit can do. Featuring a combination of custom built options including the use of the proven Truss and PodForum systems, rental displays are heavy on the eyes and light on the budget with most costing under 50-60% the price of regular display.

In today’s tough economic times, companies can’t always afford to take a chance on something new. Godfrey understands these difficulties and that’s why they are offering vendors a chance to see their amazing designs in action at a reduced cost. If your company is thinking about getting back on the road or is simply in need of a new trade show exhibit guaranteed to turn heads, think of Godfrey and think of our display rental program!

Keeping It Clean Goes A Long Way When Talking Trade Shows

Wednesday, September 8th, 2010

We all know that trade show vendors will go to extraordinary lengths to attract attention to their booths. Far beyond custom displays and game props many vendors feel that the best way to attract attention is by putting a pretty face in front of their booths.  While an attractive person will definitely get you attention, it may not be the kind you want. In fact scantily clad models bring about three very distinct problems that are hard to get around if you are vendor looking to utilize this type of marketing:

•1.       They draw the wrong crowd. The main problem with using a model as the main way to sell your product is that it gets everyone’s attention. Every company has a target market in mind for their product. A segment of the population that they feel is the perfect fit for their product. By placing a model in front of your display, instead of zeroing in on that target market you may find yourself wasting huge amounts of time on people who are just there to see a pretty face and don’t have any interest in what you have to offer.

•2.       They ruin your clean image. First impressions mean everything and they are often virtually impossible to reverse because you almost never get a second shot at talking to the customer. If a visitor walks by your booth and sees a model that could be considered inappropriately dressed, that customer could immediately classify you as a company that is less than family friendly. When designing a display for a trade show you want to be as professional as possible at all times. You want custom fabrics, clean lines, and quality video presentations. By putting a less than wholesome face in front of the exhibit you are alienating a large portion of the population.

•3.       They distort your message. Once you consider all of the expenses that are involved in getting to, setting up, and promoting yourself at a trade show, the last thing you can afford to do is have people walk away from your booth not knowing what you are all about.  Again using a model may get bring the crowd your way, but moments later if asked visitors to your booth might be able to remember what the model looked like, but not what she was there to sell. Models get in the way of what you are there to do and that is burn your company’s name in the minds of hundreds of consumers.

Instead of using a model to promote a product, the best move is to invest in a custom built multicolored trade show display that only Godfrey can provide. With a wide variety of kiosks, hanging headers, and pop-up displays to choose from;  Godfrey is the answer to all your trade show woes.

Trade Show Displays Come To Life With Godfrey’s Virtual Tour

Friday, September 3rd, 2010

For weeks and months we’ve been telling you about all the great things Godfrey can do to increase your trade show sales. Through pictures and words, testimonials and statistics, we’ve shown you just what a custom designed trade show exhibit can look like when all you have is an idea and a little help from one of Godfrey’s specially trained project managers. Well what if I told you that there is now a way to take all those designs we’ve been bragging about and see them in action? All of this and more can be seen simply by taking the Godfrey Virtual Tour!

With the click of a link you are literally dropped off in front of the Godfrey Building where from there you will get access to the entire Godfrey Showroom. Look a little closer and you’ll get a chance to see of few of our dedicated employees in action, plus even receive a quick glance into some of the processes that bring our amazing exhibits to life. More importantly though you will see just how much our displays will help separate you from your competitors. From custom fabric structures, to video displays, to the awesome Truss System; the virtual tour can do what words can’t and that’s show you what our designs look like in a real showroom.

Information displays, pop-up tents, and a plethora of portable kiosks can all be found as part of the virtual tour all echoing the same thing….Godfrey is your one stop shop for the very best in custom trade show exhibits and signs. Once you have taken the tour, the next step is to check out our design gallery where you can begin the process of picking out a display of your very own. All is left to from there is getting connected with your personal project manager and your on your way to trade show success! The Godfrey Virtual Tour now!

Is Your Trade Show Exhibit Missing The Minor Details?

Wednesday, September 1st, 2010

When someone leaves your exhibit they may not be able to quote what was shared with them word for word or tell recite the names of the people they met, but for the most part people do pay attention to the details. Ask any recent visitor to your booth and more than likely you’d receive info on what promotions were being offered, how polite the staff was, and what their thoughts on the layout of the exhibit were.  Sure they may miss some of the larger things that were being promoted, but sometimes it’s the little touches that tell people whether or not they would be happy doing business with a vendor.  Van Halen lead singer David Lee Roth once gave a classic example of how not paying attention to detail can lead to larger issues.  The discussion revolved around a liner in the bands contract that specifically called for a bowl of M&M’s free of any brown colored chocolates, “So, when I would walk backstage, if I saw a brown M&M in that bowl . . . well, line-check the entire production. Guaranteed you’re going to arrive at a technical error. They didn’t read the contract. Guaranteed you’d run into a problem. Sometimes it would threaten to just destroy the whole show. Something like, literally, life-threatening.”

Godfrey practically specializes in minor details that are sure to make a big impact on trade show sales and among the best are a couple of items that are guaranteed to light a fire under any customer:

It may not seem like much at first, but an Earth Frame is the perfect addition to any trade show exhibit. There’s just something about the shape of our planet that when used as a logo or prop gives a company a sense of trust and wisdom. When they see a Earth Frame encircled by the shape of the continents the consumer gets an idea that the company they are looking at is a global presences and cares about the world it operates in.

Fire is something else that evokes a specific emotion in all of us. A flame represents hope, a new life, a victory, and a new idea. Nestled atop a fabric column, a fire bowl can often appear so real that many would swear they felt the heat coming off of itand  if the vendor isn’t careful that heat might just be enough to set the entire display on fire.  As an added bonus the fabric column easily converts to a product pedestal and even supports a conference tabletop.

Trade shows are often far too hectic to allow vendors to do more than make a quick first impression. By designing an exhibit full of small details that tell the customer they are meeting a vendor that truly cares about them, a company has the power to take that first impression and turn it into a lasting relationship. For more information on how to make that perfect first impression, contact Godfrey today and get on the path to higher trade show sales!!

How To Get That Showroom Experience!

Monday, August 30th, 2010

You walk in and the greeter at the entrance thanks you for stopping by. She offers to show you around, but you tell her you’re just browsing. There’s a bit of music playing in the background and some outside noise filtering in as you look through the various racks and shelves. After finding a few items you like, the cashier smiles then reminds you to leave your contact info on the way out in order to receive special offers in the weeks and months to come. As you head for the exit, you thank the greeter and comment on how nice the experience was before rejoining the crowd outside. This scenario happens every day at millions of retail and outlet stores all over the world, but what makes this experience different is that instead of a shopping mall it’s happening at a convention center during a trade show.

Bringing that showroom experience to a trade show is easy once you have the tools to make it happen. Complete with shelving and easy to assemble hanging racks, the expert staff at Godfrey knows just what it takes to create a professional showroom.  Featuring a wide variety of showcases, counter tops, video displays, custom flooring, and fixtures the showroom experience wouldn’t be complete without your custom logo and company name emblazoned all around.

If you’re a trade show vendor who is looking for something unique that is sure to separate your company from your competitors, what better way to achieve this than by designing a display that essentially makes visitors forget that they are at a trade show and instead are visiting one of your new custom built locations.