Nimlok Tradepoints:
Using Your Staff for Hospitality Suites - Part 2

Plan that employees mingle with as many visitors as possible, spending no more than 8-10 minutes with a visitor or group. Alternatively arrange for employees to host certain groups of visitors, especially if you want to gain greater insight, learn new information and/or wish to improve rapport.

Make sure they have plenty of business cards. Have them wear legible nametags on the upper right for easier viewing. Take time to review positive non-verbal communication with employees, e.g., good eye contact, smiling, open and receptive body language - uncrossed arms.

Take time to instruct employees on proper etiquette for introductions, e.g., introduce a younger person to an older person; a peer in your company to a peer in another company; a fellow executive to a customer.

Encourage employees to avoid:

• Sitting and talking with co-workers
• Telling inappropriate jokes
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Smoking
• Monopolizing someone's time
• Complaining

Finally, arrange a debriefing and evaluation immediately following the function.

Written by Susan A. Friedmann, CSP, The Tradeshow Coach, Lake Placid, NY, working with exhibitors and meeting & event planners to improve their event success through coaching, consulting and training.

Website: www.thetradeshowcoach.com