When it comes to designing an attention-getting exhibit, trade show graphics are crucial.
Research shows that we have just seven seconds to make a positive first impression. When it comes to trade events, there’s a lot at stake in those initial moments. It’s critically important to get it right out of the gate. How can you showcase your brand’s personality in a way that’s striking and memorable? The answer lies in your graphics. Even the most elaborate custom booth will fall short if the visuals are sloppy or unappealing.
Please read on to discover eight big mistakes to avoid with your trade show graphics.
Mistake #1: Failing to consider the power of color
Color can influence mood and evoke emotion. When selecting the palette for your trade show graphics, make sure your choices properly represent your identity. Incorporate your brand’s color scheme and extend it, if necessary, with the use of complementary hues and tones.
Mistake #2: Information overload
Sure, there are a lot of wonderful things you want to say about your company and your newest service offerings. Although you may feel the urge to cram text and imagery into every bit of available space, keeping it simple is the key to creating a compelling design. The most successful trade show graphics leverage the power of whitespace to highlight critical information.
Mistake #3: Overdoing the fonts
Readability is key with any signage, and that’s even more important when it must be seen from a distance. Choose a single, easy-to-read typeface. Avoid ornate, cursive, and artsy fonts at all costs.
Mistake #4: Poor image quality
Photos should be high-resolution or vector, especially when it comes to your logo. Always use native, clean artwork for graphic projects, and take extra care when producing oversize images, such as those for trade show use. Don’t skimp on this very important element. It’s well worth the investment to purchase high-quality stock photography.
Mistake #5: Not talking benefits
When message selection is this critical, benefit-rich statements are the key to success. Don’t waste your word allotment to tell people how cool your company is or to list product details. Attendees want to know what’s in it for them so make that your focus.
Mistake #6: Not considering text placement
The two-foot zone across the top of the exhibit is the ideal location for text. Why? Because this unobstructed space on the booth’s back wall can still be seen clearly even when the aisle is full of people. If you absolutely can’t position your text within the two-foot zone, try to keep it several feet up from the floor.
Mistake #7: Going too small
Trade shows are all about oversized elements so seize the day! The type should be a minimum of one inch tall for every three feet away you are. Since most attendees are at least 12 feet from an exhibit as they pass by, the text should be at least four inches tall, roughly the size of a standard envelope. Decide what you want people to notice about your booth from across the exhibit floor and then create something so mesmerizing they’ll make a beeline to find out more.
Mistake #8: Foregoing the proofreading process
This final step before production is the culmination of all of your hard work. It’s your last chance to catch any mistakes and make the necessary changes. Review your graphics with a fine-tooth comb. Check for accuracy and spelling errors. Get several people involved in the proofreading process to ensure that nothing is overlooked.
The right trade show graphics can drive traffic to your booth through captivating imagery and compelling messaging. Adler Display’s design team includes talented graphic professionals with special expertise in creating large-format graphics for trade shows. Please contact us to learn more or to get started.
About Adler Display: For over 85 years, Adler Display has been one of the best-kept secrets behind so many businesses looking their best. Designing and producing a wide variety of high-quality recognition displays, trade show displays, signage and exhibits, lobby and corporate interiors, and historical timelines, Adler’s expert team includes consultants, designers, project managers, and fabricators. Working from a 17,000-square-foot facility in Baltimore that includes a precision woodworking shop, Adler Display handles all printing, construction, and finishing on site. Learn how to achieve your imaging goals and make your business look amazing at: www.AdlerDisplay.com.