The cousin Ted syndrome

Invariably people will come to your booth and, when asked about their interest in a web site, will say: "I already have one. Cousin Ted made it on a computer. He done good."

That is when it is advantageous to have lap top at the show, along with an internet connection. I tell them that's great to hear and ask them to give me the web address. When the site comes up — and frequently they look awful — I try to compliment them on their site, perhaps adding such statements as, "You might want to correct the four misspellings in the opening paragraph," or "Ted must be about 10 years old by now, isn't he?"

The reality is that it is a good opportunity to play show and tell, demonstrating to them what you can do to make their site much better and more professional appearing. Often, it is an eye opener, but unless you are willing to work for Ted's price — usually for free — don't plan on getting a new customer soon.

Still, somewhere down the line it might pay off.

What if I don't get any new clients?

There may not be any immediate reward for participating in one of these shows, but that does not mean you haven't received your money's worth. The exposure can eventually lead to business arrangements, it is relatively cheap advertising, and it helps establish you in the public's eyes as a member of the business community.

In the long run, some of those benefits can far outweigh the income from one web site.

We have, at times, found a company at one of the shows that performs a service we are interested in having done, and we simply do trade out — they get their web site, and we get our company lawn professionally landscaped, for example.

It really is a no-lose proposition. Even if you have no sales, you have a lot of good advertising, and who knows when someone who saw you at the Fair will think of you again someday in a time of need.

Summary

Obviously this is not a technical column dealing with web design, but various forms of marketing are crucial to the success of a web design business. For smaller companies, the luxury of getting huge corporate clients are not as plentiful as they are for larger firms.

These types of shows enable design companies to put their best foot forward and demonstrate their abilities and professionalism.

On top of that, there is the all-important factor to consider — the food. Cotton candy, corn dogs, elephant ears, burgers, and fries pretty much make a well-balanced meal at the Fair. Sell a web site or two, and you might even be able to afford to eat steak and shrimp on the way home.

Types of items needed
Meeting the Public in Mass