Far too many of us waste good opportunities when we fail to network effectively because we employ tired techniques at trade shows. The following bullet points should increase your effectiveness and boost your sales at your next trade show:

Attending Only:

Arrive early for the breakfast event, join a nearly full table, and share your business card and brochure with everyone seated at your table.

Listen, learn and begin building these new relationships. Remember, showing interest in others is a good habit to get into.

Be sure to get business cards so you can add them to your distribution lists and then follow-up later to continue the art of relationship building. Remember, in addition to potential clients, building relationships results in referrals and word-of-mouth brand and business development.

Do the same for the luncheon and/or evening hors d