Is It Time to Change Your Trade Show Uniforms?

If you’re old enough, and I say 1980s IBM or copier sales person, you probably envision a very dated look of a button down and pleated khakis. Sometimes the women would get a little crazy and wear a paisley scarf, but for the most part, the uniform was gender neutral and it looked the same boxy way on men or women. That’s because they were selling a product, not so much a personality or a person.

Today, customers buy differently. They’re not looking to make a purchase from a clone. They want to get to know, like, and trust the person they’re buying from. That’s why trade show uniforms need to be reenvisioned.

 

Does Your Trade Show Uniform Still Fit Your Band?

If you’re wondering whether you need to revisit your trade show uniforms, consider the following:

It’s Boxy

If your uniform is boxy you have a few problems.

• No one feels comfortable in this type of attire. It is difficult to impress people when you don’t feel good about how you look.
• It makes your employees look like clones in clothes they don’t like. While they are identifiable as your employees, there are better options.
• It’s most likely out of style. In today’s trade show uniforms, whether it’s polo shirts or button downs, they’re cut differently for men and women. If you’re using a boxy, gender neutral style, it’s probably outdated.

It’s Boring

If your brand is hip and innovative, you don’t want to be in the same boring trade show uniform. Plus, you look like your competition but in a different color. Find ways to spice your look up through accessories like embroidered hats or jackets.

It’s Not Appealing to Your Target Market

Trade show clothing is not as limited as it used to be. There are tons of fashionable options. You want employees to look good, feel confident, and appeal to your target demographic. If you’re trying to reach millennials, for instance, a suit and tie isn’t the right look just as if you’re trying to target Boomers, leave the beanie caps at home.

Your brand must be reflected in your employees’ look. Otherwise, there’s a disconnect. And when there’s a disconnect, customers will wonder what else in your operation is disjointed.