Although I titled this hub "Trade Show Display Design Secrets", the truth is there are no "secrets" to designing a trade show display that works. Creating compelling and effective graphic designs for trade show displays shouldn't require an advanced degree from an Ivy League university like Stanford or Princeton. In actuality, it is basically common sense. Unfortunately, the fact that it is common sense doesn't mean effective trade show displays are all that "common". From what I've seen, I have to wonder what some trade show exhibitors where thinking when they came up with their designs. But if you can read and follow the common sense steps that I list out here, you should be able to create an eye-catching, attention-getting, effective trade show display that will pull prospects into your trade show booth and convert them into customers – which is the point of exhibiting at a trade show in the first place. The key to effectiveness is to make sure your design does these three things (you can call them "secrets" if you want).

First, you've got to get their attention. Realize that your booth is like one fish in a huge school of fish (the other "fish" being all those other trade show booths at the show). If you don't have a design that stands out, your booth will just fade into the background. You've only got a few seconds to grab the attention of the trade show attendees walking by your booth. One very successful method of "getting noticed" is to have a colorful background picture with a provocative tagline.

Second, you must clearly say who your are, and you must explain what you do. Make sure your company name is at the top and is easy to find. You must also explain what your company actually does. Test your design by having a friend look at it for a few seconds and then have them tell you who you are and what you do.

Third, you need to explain WWIFM (what's in it for me, "me" being your potential customer). This is the most important part of an effective design. People want to know how you can help them - that's why they'll stop and talk to you. For instance, if you are a seo company, you might say that you can get them on the first page for their keywords. Just remember, to be effective, your design must explain how you can help.

So there you have the three not-so-secret "secrets" of smart trade show display design. To summarize, to design effective trade show displays you need to have a display design that answers the three points above. You need a design that stands out. Your booth design should have your company name at the top and what your company does. Finally, it must be clear how you benefit or help people (your customers). Create your trade show display design with these three criteria in mind and see your trade show booth be one of the busiest at the show! Here's wishing you good luck at your next trade show! And may you end up with more trade show booth traffic than you know what to do with!