What's the worst thing that you've seen vendors do at shows?  Here is a short video from the IAEEE Trade Show.  These are the people that conduct trade shows so you would think that they would know what not to do?  Check out the video.

Have you seen things that top those in the video?  What is your pet peeve when you visit a show as a "customer"?

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  • It's amazing how many exhibitors cannot comprehend the value of just a friendly greeting. I always make it point to say good morning or good afternoon when somebody is at my booth.

    We've all done outdoor shows in the rain or threatening weather. I always thank the customer for coming out in this weather. I have had customers tell me they bought from me simply because I made them feel appreciated when they could have stayed home and out of the rain. Meanwhile, I've got Granny Grump on one side and Mr McNasty on the other doing nothing but complaining about the weather.

    • Oh, I so know the feeling of having Granny Grump and Mr. McNasty on either side.  Complaining never wins any friends but does garner company ... as they say misery loves company.  We try to be upbeat in the heat, rain or wind.  Shoppers are already there in the elements shopping ... try to put a smile on their face!

      It takes more effort to be upbeat and give a greeting, but not much if you think about the rewards if you just put in a little effort.  I grew up in family self-employed in retail for all my life.  It comes second nature to me.  Maybe I am exaggerating the ease?

  •  I agree with all already said. It is important to greet the people who stop to look, a quick hello or a knowing nod are all it takes. Give them a few seconds and if they seem interested say a few words. Its a fine line because many lookers are scared off if you act too eager.  Be fun, be personable, they love the interaction with us and thats part of why they come to the show-- you are a part of that show-

     What I find that baffles me is the number of artists at the higher end shows (Smithsonian for example) that do not even look at you much less speak to you. This seems to be a very common behavior at this level.

  • If no one is around I will take notes on inventory, track weather on iPad or talley sales, but stop this as soon as someone shows up. Jean likes to read her book when it's slow, but I tell her to take it out back regardless. Not being in your booth is not going to result in a sale. You have to be on your toes and treat everyone as the " big sale" that will make your show even if they only spend $20.
  • I don't think an artist texting or looking at their phone is anything to put off an admirer of looking at the art. If after a few seconds, the artist doesn't look up, smile, greet, then that is something different. But in 2015, to send a text, or read what others have sent you is not a flagrant foul.

    That would be like walking into a booth, immediately looking and if you saw the artist texting a message, would you roll up your sleeves and stomp out, refusing to look at his art? Sounds pretty ridiculous.

    The only thing that gets my goat is if I turn to face the artist trying to make facial contact, and a few seconds goes by without an acknowledgment, then I'm gone and there is no coming back.
    • One thing I have to stop and remember is that the artist may not be ignoring business when on the phone or texting.  S/he may actually be taking of a very pressing matter for another customer.  I guess what I am saying is give the person the benefit of the doubt.  However, once s/he sees someone in their booth they should try to wrap it up quickly and take care of the "live and in person" customer.

      • This was my first thought as well! 

      • It is obnoxious when someone is talking a person in their booth and the artists phone rings...and he/she answers it instead of letting it go to voicemail. I never answer my phone while talking to someone.. regardless of it being at a show or any other place. It 's just plain out bad manners and sends the signal that the person calling is more important than the person you are face-to-face with in a conversation.. That also pertains to someone coming into a booth and having the salesperson interrupted and not having the testicular fortitude to tell them he/she will be with them in just a moment.

        • Greg,

          Not sure if you are just referencing my post.  I was referring to a customer walking into a booth when the artist is in the middle of a convo on the phone or text, not taking one once a customer is physically present in the booth.

          • Cynthia...not at all referring to your post. I have seen artists stop in the middle of a conversation with someone in their tent to answer their cellaphone. I don't think you would do this.

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