ATA Staff Share Their Trade Show Tips

Sarah Haala, ATA’s Trade Show coordinator

Haala has two years of Trade Show experience under her belt and in her time with the ATA, she noticed it’s best to arrive early each day of the Show. Why? Because you’re more energized in the morning and you beat the crowds because many people sleep in and show up late, especially if they were socializing with friends the night before. To stick to the trend, she also recommends eating early. Most people eat lunch at noon, so you’ll notice long food court lines and fewer empty tables at that time. Eating earlier allows you to get your food, sit down and eat without being away from the Show floor for too long. If you choose to eat out for dinner, try to make reservations. The earlier the better. Otherwise, you might jeopardize your “early bird gets the worm” strategy. 

Haala also mentioned attending the free evening and affiliate events. People at these events are often more relaxed and laid back compared to their business-mode facade on the Show floor. Plus, you can enjoy free drinks, snacks or entertainment at events like Outtech Innovations, Connections: An ATA Happy Hour presented by Outdoor Sportsman Group, and the Badlands Film Festival Presented by Garmin.

Allison Jasper, ATA’s senior director of marketing and communications

Jasper has spent 14 years in a marketing role, and she knows the importance of relationships and connections. She encourages attendees to build personal and professional relationships with exhibitors and other retailers. There’s a lot going on at the ATA Show, and it’s easy to forget names, companies, orders or advice from peers. Use your phone’s notepad or take notes in a notebook to help you keep track of conversations, orders and other happenings. You can also add exhibitor notes in the ATA mobile app if you create an account. 

Also, be sure to get and hand out business cards. If you discussed something unique or specific during a meeting or conversation, jot that down on their business card and reference it in your follow-up communications to help the person remember you and your interaction. Keeping track of the information you receive, orders you place, and people you must connect with after the Show helps you be more productive post-Show. Your notes and budding relationships will help set the stage for future interactions and more tailored advice, service and assistance. 

Josh Gold, ATA’s senior manager of R3 and state relations

Gold works with state agencies, nonprofits and other organizations to develop partnerships that help grow archery and bowhunting. He encourages attendees to visit booths along the nonprofit row, which is on the right along the wall after entering the Show floor near the main registration desk. Talk with each organization to learn how they benefit archery and bowhunting at the grassroots level. Discuss their efforts in your area and how to get involved. Forming partnerships allows you to attract new customers, grow archery and bowhunting in your community, and provide current customers with more opportunities to participate. Some nonprofits include the National Bowhunter Education Foundation, Pope and Young Club, Hunters of Color, Christian Bowhunters of America, Whitetails Unlimited, the National Field Archery Association, and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.