At a bustling trade show, businesses only have a few seconds to capture an attendee’s attention. With hundreds of other booths competing for the spotlight, standing out is no small feat. That’s where you come in! As an entertainer, you offer a unique way for businesses to draw in crowds and keep attendees engaged. Not only can you help companies boost their presence, but trade shows, conventions, and conferences also present a golden opportunity for you to land new gigs and expand your client base.
Choose the right trade show, and you could secure a gig that leads to even more future performances. Here’s how to tap into this lucrative market and position yourself as the go-to entertainer for trade show gigs.
Develop your material for trade show performances
Over the years, we’ve seen firsthand how performers like magicians, celebrity impersonators, costumed characters, and even stilt walkers have transformed trade show exhibits into must-visit destinations. Businesses recognize the value of live entertainment, which means it’s time for you to tailor your act for this environment.
Start by adapting your performance for a small space. Since you’ll likely be performing at a booth or in between aisles, strolling entertainment is ideal. This approach allows you to interact with attendees without requiring a dedicated stage or large setup. Consider these trade show-friendly performance ideas:
🪄 Magicians: Use quick, engaging illusions to attract attendees to a booth. Incorporate branded elements or product messaging into your tricks to seamlessly tie in the exhibitor’s business.
🥸 Impersonators and costumed characters: Dress as a recognizable figure or industry-related character while passing out promotional materials or posing for branded photos with attendees.
🤩 Stilt walkers: Tower above the crowd in a branded outfit, drawing attention to a particular booth.
📸 Photo booths and caricaturists: Offer attendees a memorable keepsake that includes the business’s branding or contact information.
🤹 Jugglers or circus acts: Draw attention with your balancing and juggling acts. If you can incorporate the business’s product into your routine, even better.
Regardless of your specialty, remember that your main goal is to drive traffic to the exhibitor’s booth. Think of yourself as a temporary marketing rep where your success is measured by the business’s ability to attract and engage potential customers.
Research trade shows, conferences, and conventions
Not all trade shows are created equal, and finding the right fit is key to maximizing your opportunities. A well-chosen trade show gig isn’t just a one-time performance — it’s a networking goldmine. To find the best trade shows, conventions, and conferences in your area:
📆 Check local expo centers: Most convention centers and expo halls maintain online calendars listing upcoming events.
🔎 Browse trade show directories: Websites like The Trade Show Network offer directories of trade shows across various industries.
📃 Look at past exhibitors: If a show doesn’t list vendors for the current year, look at previous years’ lists. Many businesses exhibit annually, giving you a solid lead list to work from.
📞 Contact event organizers: If you’re unsure whether entertainment is allowed or welcomed, reach out to trade show reps for insight.
Whether you’re sticking to local shows or open to traveling to get gigs, a little research can go a long way in securing steady work at trade shows and conventions.
Pitching your services to trade show exhibitors
Once you’ve compiled a list of potential clients, it’s time to reach out with a compelling pitch. Since businesses receive countless promotional emails, you’ll need to make yours stand out. Here’s a strong example:
Maximizing your trade show gig for more opportunities
Your work isn’t done once you’ve booked a trade show gig! Use this time to network and secure future bookings.
- Build relationships: Connect with other exhibitors, trade show organizers, and attendees who may need entertainment at future events.
- Hand out your own business cards: While your primary goal is to promote the exhibitor, be prepared to share your own contact details with interested attendees. Be sure to clear this with the company who hired you first.
- Collect testimonials and footage: If permitted, take photos and videos of your performance to use in future marketing materials.
🏃➡️ You might also like: Why the Work Doesn’t Stop When the Gig Is Done
Trade show gigs can be a game-changer for entertainers looking to expand their business. Not only do they provide excellent exposure, but they also lead to repeat bookings and long-term partnerships with companies that regularly attend conventions and conferences.
By refining your performance, targeting the right trade shows, and delivering a compelling pitch, you’ll position yourself as a sought-after entertainer in the trade show circuit. So start researching, reaching out, and getting booked — your next big gig could be just around the corner! 🎉
Another way to get gigs at trade shows, conferences, and other corporate events is by listing on GigSalad. What are you waiting for?
Megan is the Director of Customer Experience at GigSalad and has gained 9+ years of insight on what makes a great event on both sides of the booking process. Her favorite things include books, true crime podcasts, coffee, hiking, puns, and making people laugh.