Exhibit Staffing: Tips for Managing Hospitality Suites Part 2

Plan that employees mingle with as many visitors in your 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.

Similarly to the trade show booth, 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 the following behavior at trade show exhibit and Hospitality Suits:

• 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.