Take a look at a typical trade show attendee at your next trade show. You’ll likely see them walking the aisles with their free bag, scooping up as much free stuff as they can. What you don’t see is that when they get home, they pick through the bag and throw most of it out. Most likely, your stuff will end up in the garbage.
Why have your brochures and bling out for people who will never do business with you?
If someone is truly interested in your products or services, they will stop. If it is a potential customer, take the time to talk with them, and then give your literature and premiums. That way, you know the investment in your giveaways is worth it, and you also make that person feel important because they are getting something that not everyone is.
If you want to put your brochures out, only put one on display, and write booth copy on it. Attendees can look at it if they want, but they won’t take it. If they want one, they will ask you.
By using this method, you can give better bling to the people you really want to receive it. Oh, and the only time I would have a bowl of candy in my booth, is if I was selling candy. Don’t clog up the front of your booth with candy freeloaders; leave lots of space for the real customers to visit.