What It’s Like to Be a Vendor at a Conference for SLPs (and How to Make It Worth Your While)
If you’ve ever walked into a bustling exhibit hall at a speech-language pathology conference, you know it’s a unique kind of energy. It’s where clinicians, educators, researchers, and product developers converge to share tools, resources, and ideas that can change the way we support communication. Being a vendor in this space isn’t just about making sales, it’s about showing up, standing out, and building lasting relationships with your target audience.
So, what’s it really like to be a vendor at one of these events? Here’s a look behind the table and some tips if you’re thinking of jumping in.
Know Your Purpose Before You Go
Before you pack a single product or print a single banner, get crystal clear on your goals. Are you aiming to:
-
Build brand awareness?
-
Make direct sales?
-
Launch a new product?
-
Collect leads?
-
Educate others on how your resource works?
Your goals will shape everything from your booth layout to your marketing materials. Being intentional gives you direction, and helps you measure success beyond just dollars earned.
Make Your Booth a Magnet
Visuals matter. An open, welcoming booth with clean signage, good lighting, consistent branding, and a custom table cover, (we have bought from Banner Buzz )can make a huge difference in how attendees engage with you. Avoid clutter. Don’t block your space with tables or tall displays. Instead, invite people in with smiles, samples, and interactive elements.
Want to take it up a notch? Add:
-
A selfie station or photo booth
-
A giveaway basket with email entry
-
Freebies on your table - branded pens from Pens.com
-
A QR code that links to a free resource or discount - Free QR codes at CANVA
-
Rack cards or business cards with clear branding - Our favorite is CANVA or Moo
Engage. Don’t Just Sell.
Attendees don’t want to be pitched at, they want to be heard. Ask questions like, “What kinds of resources do you wish you had more of?” or “What’s the most challenging part of your therapy sessions right now?” Listen actively. Take notes. Build relationships. This is where the magic happens.
Skip the sales script and focus on connection. People will remember how you made them feel, especially if your product solves a problem they just told you about.
Give Them Something to Take Away
Giveaways don’t have to break the bank. A high-quality pen, a mini notepad, or a fun badge ribbon can draw people in. But offering something meaningful, like a small freebie download or sample resource, can start a longer conversation after the conference is over.
Even better? Bundle your giveaway with a CTA - call to action:
-
“Follow us on Instagram to get 10% off.”
-
“Join our email list to grab your free toolkit.”
-
“Text this code to get a resource straight to your inbox.”
Keep the Momentum Going
Your impact shouldn’t stop when the booth comes down. Follow up with leads, share photos from the event, and thank people who visited your booth on social media. Create ongoing value through newsletters, freebies, or behind-the-scenes content.
The relationships you build at a conference can turn into long-term customers, collaborators, and supporters, if you stay connected.
Final Thought:
Being a vendor at a conference for SLPs is more than just setting up shop. It’s an opportunity to engage with your community, showcase the heart behind your brand, and plant seeds that grow into something bigger. Plan with intention, show up authentically, and don’t be afraid to have a little fun while you’re at it.
Looking to exhibit of the first time? Join us at Desert Days May 1-4, 2006 in Scottsdale, Arizona at Camelback Inn.
