Life’s Easier for Tall Guys & Gals!

I have to admit, I do stand out in all the family photos. You can easily pick me out amongst all the men and women. All you have to do is look for the shortest guy in the photo and the odds are good it will be me. I am the only male amongst all my brothers and male cousins who is less than six feet tall. Many of the female family members are around my height or taller; with some over 6 feet.

I know I am not short at 5'8", yet I have often wondered why I got the ‘shorter’ genes. As I entered my adult years, I found that my very tall family members faced their own set of difficulties. It’s easy to take for granted simple things like:

• Remembering to duck before going through a doorway
• Moving a car seat as far back as possible before getting into a vehicle
• Finding a comfortable seat on an airplane
• Avoiding couches or any furniture built too low to the ground—making it very difficult to sit and/or stand up.
• And finding stores that have clothes tailored for the taller and/or the larger person.

One of my cousins—at 6’ 9”—has to have the driver’s seat professionally moved back to accommodate his long legs and then have the seat reset when he trades the car in for a newer model.

Recently, I came across a company that not only provides fashionable clothes for tall/large men and women, but also has an amazing assortment of products such as inside and outside furniture—all designed  to make everyday day living much more comfortable.

While my wife and I are average height, it's nice to have a set of folding chairs available for my dad, brothers, and cousins when they come over and visit. I purchased deck furniture that is a lot more comfortable and sturdy for my tall family members.

Even if you are not 'blessed' (or burdened) with the 'tall gene' take a moment and order a free copy of the “LivingXL” catalog from EZ-Request.com. There are some great gift ideas for your taller family members.

You will find an assortment of sturdy, oversized chairs - including office chairs, portable folding chairs and great-looking styles for the home. And for more convenient, comfortable solutions, check out our incredible selection of items designed for healthy living - from high-tech scales and personal care aids to fitness equipment and outdoor leisure products. There are even innovative ideas for the frequent traveler!

Living XL

Kitchen Design on Your Home Computer

Everyone knows upgrading a kitchen is a smart financial move. For those of you who enjoy cooking, it may make sense from a purely personal view. Whatever your motivation . . . you need a concrete idea of what you want to add and subtract from your current kitchen.

A kitchen design program is immensely helpful when it comes to creating a vision of your new kitchen. Once you start using these programs, you will be utterly stunned. They allow you to insert different styles, colors, layouts and even particular products in certain situations. A quality program takes it a step further. It will create a virtual kitchen for you in a two or three dimension format. You can then “walk” around in your kitchen and see it from various angles and so on. It is impressive.

Yet, not all of these programs are created equal. In truth, you get what you pay for when you use economy versions. Obviously, the more expensive versions provide you with more features and options to assist you in visualizing your new kitchen.

Before you hire an architect, it is well worth the time to purchase a design program for these reasons:

1. You design your kitchen (and other home projects) at your own pace.
2. Making changes to your design does not incur additional costs like those from an architect.
3. The better software programs will have a bill-of-materials component, so you instantly see the cost impact on your design changes.
4. Knowing how much you can afford, you can make changes thoughtfully and still stay within budget.
5. With draft plans, you can take your time visualizing living inside of your design. Imagine yourself preparing various meals with the foreknowledge of knowing where everything will be stored, accessing food and cookware, along with preparation and clean-up.
6. Creating your own design is fun. It’s a great way to get the entire family’s thoughts and create a kitchen that will serve everyone.
7. Finally, take your time. Kitchen upgrades are expensive even on the most frugal budgets. Make the right investment in the design tools first (hardware and software.) Failing to do so could result in committing to a bad design that would lead to both financial and functional disappointments.

So with all that said--to help you start off on the right foot--a great mail order catalog can be found on EZ-Request.com for both computer software and hardware. For the very best prices, order your free TigerDirect catalog today.



Lower Your Back Pain

Chronic back pain troubles millions of people worldwide. And for those who suffer constantly from sore, stiff, or distressed back muscles and spinal joints, it can be unbearable. There are many causes to back pain including poor posture, week abdominal muscles, misaligned spinal column, lack of chair support when seated, unsupportive bed or pillow, and certainly stress and anxiety which gets localized in the body in the back. Regardless of what is causing your back to be consistently in pain, you're looking for relief, at least something that will permit you to get through another day.
Resources do exist, help is available. Exercise consistently ranks as the top preventive remedy for lowering back pain. For some people it may be weight bearing exercises such as walking, running, or tennis - others may benefit from swimming, rowing (with proper technique), or stair climbing on a gym machine. Stretching exercises and abdominal strengthening drills, though, can focus your body's attention on local support for removing back pain.

Another common resource includes professional help - physical therapists, chiropractors, massage therapists, and acupuncturists each have special methods for approaching back pain. While all have merits, it's best to consider them all in various forms as a specific technique or a combination may be just what you need.

A consideration for many in extreme pain is medication. This could be general pain relieving drugs that can be bought over the counter or a prescription-required med. Some sleep medications can also provide a side benefit of loosening the muscles just enough to provide consistent back relief. And always consult your psychiatrist or medical professional for more help.

Chronic back pain does not need to be a permanent problem in your life. While spinal misalignment or years of poor posture may limit the improvements you can make, some relief is definitely possible. Through the pursuit of consistent exercise, proper seating, professional help, or even medication, some relief is possible for your back pain.

Relax The Back Corporation Spring 2011 Catalog

For furnishings designed for those I just spoken of above, take a moment and order a free copy of the “Relax The Back Corporation” spring 2011 catalog from EZ-Request.com. There are some great products for both home and office that may be just right for you!

Archery Safety Tips

A few years back, I set up an area in the backyard for my family to practice their archery. Since my property borders a corn field, I knew I had one safety issue resolved by having all targets positioned away from the house and away from anyone who could be harmed.

Like all sports, archery has rules and most of the rules are designed to keep archers and spectators safe. So, I established some time honored rules that all family members (and guests) are requiring to keep in order to safely and confidently enjoy the sport of archery.

1. Always shoot arrows at the target. Arrows can be dangerous weapons and should never to be aimed at anything other than the target.
2. Inspect the arrow before shooting. If the arrow shaft is damaged it could cause the arrow to snap and injure the archer. A cracked arrow could go off course and harm a spectator. Damaged arrows are unpredictable and not safe to shoot.
3. Only when everyone has finished shooting before moving forward to collect the arrows. Make sure no-one is standing in front of the target or in the way of the withdrawn arrows.
4. Never pull back and release a bow string without an arrow attached. This could damage the bow or injure the archer. Additionally, a bow should not be loaded with an arrow unless standing on the "shooting line" and the archer has signaled the start of their shoot.
5. Targets should be set up to insure that no one can be accidentally hit by a stray arrow.

Archery is fun, but one must not forget it can also be a dangerous sport. By following basic guidelines everyone can and will enjoy this great sport.

For information on some of the best archery products and related supplies, order your free “Kustom King Traditional Archery” catalog from EZ-Request.com.

Kustom King Traditional Archery
Catalog

Getting the Most Out of Your Jeep

The serious off-road Jeep enthusiast improves the performance of their Jeep by selecting the right aftermarket performance parts for the best possible rock-climbing, trail-blazing challenges. 

Specialized aftermarket trail performance components are made specifically for each model, whether it is a Wrangler, Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, or Liberty.  Accessories are readily available to improve engine performance, ground clearance, and vehicle handling.

To increase horsepower there are a multitude of aftermarket upgrades available.   Hi-flow air intake systems increase the flow of air to the engine.  This allows your engine to breathe easier.  The air filter is designed to achieve virtual unrestricted airflow and still filter the air of dust and debris, which not only delivers added power but also helps prolong the life of the engine. 

Computer chips and programmer boxes are designed to improve horsepower and/or gas mileage giving you the ability to optimize the power of your Jeep.  These programmers allow you to tune your Jeep to receive more rotary force (torque) or to customize your Jeep’s limit to allow for faster acceleration. 

High performance exhaust systems are not installed just to make noise.  They increase the exhaust flow of your Jeep lessening the backpressure, which helps to produce more power, and, yes your Jeep will have a deeper, meaner roar to it as well. 

Suspension lift kits increase the handling and ground clearance of your Jeep.  These systems deliver lift, better articulation, better off-road handling, and allow for larger tires; all this for better off-road traction and handling.

Polyurethane mounts and bushings provide better performance and extended wear.  Polyurethane transmission mounts replace worn rubber factory mounts, which can lead to hard shifting and sloppiness in the drive train.  Changing these rubber factory mounts to the new polyurethane mounts will also lessen breakage when placing high levels of power demands on the system.   Polyurethane bushings improve the handling and feel of your Jeep, and provide the necessary stiffness to the body and cab, while maintaining a certain resilience to ensure a firmer ride.  

An on-board air system offers trailside convenience for the 4x4 enthusiast.  It is a common practice for trail riders to air down their tires for maximum traction when maneuvering on rough terrain.  Having on-board air makes it much easier for the Jeep driver to air back up the tires so their Jeep will perform properly on paved roads on their way back to the city from the off road excursion.

High-end performance Jeep alternators are designed to meet the high-level demands on the electric system out on the trails.  They ensure that you will have the power needed for your Jeep’s system. 

These specialized off-road components mentioned above are just some of the high-end parts that are available to Jeep owners for meeting the special demands from the trails. EZ-Request.com has several free catalogs geared towards the Jeep enthusiast that will be shipped immediately upon request. Take a moment and order these catalogs today.

EZ-Request.com Specialty Jeep Catalogs:

1. Quadratec - Essentials for Jeep Cherokee Vehicles

2. Quadratec - Essentials for Jeep Wrangler Vehicles

3. J.C. Whitney - General Automotive Parts & Accessories

4. J.C. Whitney - Jeep Parts & Accessories

Preserve Your Family Recipes

Being one of three brothers, my mom used the kitchen as a place to keep her sons occupied when playing outside was not an option. To keep us out of mischief, she would turn a rainy day into a day of making snicker doodles, cakes, brownies, and pies. It was also a time where all three boys learned how to cooks meals; not just for a few people, but for large family gatherings.

Over the years I have called my mom to get recipes and the process of accumulating these recipes has been very slow.

My wife and I continued the tradition of cooking with our children and now that they are going out on their one, it’s interesting to see history repeating itself with requests for favorite recipes.

After watching a cable network craft show that encouraged viewers to create scrapbooks as gifts, my wife was inspired to create recipe scrapbooks for our children, but after some consideration, we decided to make 10 scrapbooks at one time. There were not just our kids to consider, but nephews, nieces and others who would be interested in acquiring many of our family recipes.

Over a five month period, my wife and I cooked each item, took photos of the completed dishes, and created the content for each set of pages that revolved around a recipe. We typed up each recipe on our home computer, making sure to include any special instructions and grocery lists. The recipes were printed on a wide variety of stationary and then glued to a page. We also scanned old family photos; printing them on our photo printer. My wife added borders and accents to each page making each recipe a special presentation.

When the project was completed, we invited everyone over for a family gathering and presented the scrapbooks. Needless to say there were some tears of happiness and amazement. We encouraged everyone to start making scrapbooks for their own children and to make it a family project until it was time for their kids to start their adult lives.

A closing thought...while a recipe’s ingredients and instructions are important, so is the cookware. Make sure you have the right pot, pan, and utensil to do the job right. For some very unique kitchen items order Lehman's Non-Electric Catalog from EZ-Request.com.

 

And for items to enhance your scrapbook, order the "Paper Wishes" Catalog!



And as always, all catalogs are free at EZ-Request.com.

Some Simple Floor Cleaning Hints

Properly maintained hardwood floors will keep them looking good and extend their lifespan. It is extremely important to remove all the dirt, dropped food, grit and other debris that can end up on and ground into your hardwood floors. Dirt that is not removed quickly can be "camouflaged" in the pattern or color of the wood; making it not only difficult to see, but easy to ignore. There are several basic tools that you can use to remove dirt:

• Brooms: Make sure to use a broom that has "exploded" ends that can sweep up dust and fine grit.
• Vacuums: Any type of vacuum is fine, except an upright with a beater bar and brushes. These can cause damage to the floor.
• Dust mop: Dust mopping and vacuuming are the most effective methods of removing debris from floors. If using a dust mop, buy a high quality mop with an eighteen inch head. Treat the mop with a dust mop treatment so it grabs the dirt and doesn't just push it around.

Sweeping, vacuuming or dust mopping regularly is great for getting rid of the dirt, but you will still need to clean the floor. Believe it or not, mopping your wood floor it the best method. Use a neutral cleaner (pH of 7) that is for use on hardwood floors and follow the product's directions.

Are you looking to upgrade your home or a room with beautiful hardwoods floors? For premium wood floors with great savings, take a moment to order your free Lumber Liquidators catalog from EZ-Request.com.

  

9 HD Motorcycle Enhancement Accessories

My very first motorcycle was a Harley-Davidson Low Rider. I liked the lines and how it felt on the road, but as time went by, I had to admit, I wanted a few things to make some of my road trips a little more comfortable for both me and my wife.

There are a wide variety of Harley-Davidson accessories you can buy for your motorcycle. Here are a few you might consider for your bike.

• Seats: Whether you go solo or with someone at your back, a good seat will let you enjoy the whole ride. Seats from different manufacturers are made from fine materials with designs that go with the brand.
• Motorcycle Cover: Especially made for a true-blooded Harley-Davidson motorcycle, a motorcycle cover will provide protection every time you park your bike.
• Windshield and windshield trim: Made from a hard-coated polycarbonate, this accessory, that can resist scratching, is a great addition to your Harley-Davidson. The trim on the other hand adds additional style. It’s also nice keeping the bugs out my teeth.
• Backrest pad: Whether you travel alone or with a companion, having a backrest pad will certainly help your posture. The backrest pad is not only functional; it is also a good enhances your bike.
• Sissy Bar Bag: Installed at the back seat of the motorcycle, the sissy bar bag will provide an extra storage that is easy to access.
• Saddlebag: Whether it is a color-matched bag or a leather saddlebag, once installed, it will give added style to your Harley-Davidson. There are different shapes, sizes, and material made for this type of accessory. All you have to do is to choose which one is right for your motorcycle.
• Exhaust system: An exhaust system is a great addition to any bike and would highlight the very part that provides the sound that makes every Harley unique and popular.
• Instrument trim: For added style you might consider chrome-plated trim that is installed on your tachometer and speedometer gauges (selected models). This will instantly give your Harley a stunning look.
• Fender trim: Highlighting your front fender adds additional pizzazz. Simply add some chrome-plated trim and you will surely see the difference.

To get a better idea of what is available, check out the great accessories found in the JC Whitney’s "Motorcycle Parts & Accessories" catalog. Click the image below to take you to the EZ-Request.com catalog details page and order your free copy.

http://ez-request.com/SpecialOfferDetail.aspx?sku=JCW-00634

http://ez-request.com/

The Core 5 Kitchen Tools

Whether you are setting up your first kitchen or you feel it’s time to stop eating out and cook for yourself, you may be wondering where to start. I recommend five core kitchen tools that every cook needs for basic meal preparation.

As times goes by, you will, of course, get more kitchen gadgets. So, let's start with the following five:

1. CHOPPING BOARD: This is fundemental. You can't chop anything without having a chopping board. It is very versatile for chopping pretty much anything on it - onions, potatoes, tomatoes, meat, herbs, etc.
2. KNIFE: Again, this is very basic, but you will not be able to chop or cook anything without a knife. A good, sharp knife goes a long way to help you prepare food.
3. BIG POT: You need a pot for pretty much anything - from boiling pastas to making soups to stewing to pretty much anything else. Some pots come with colander inserts, which makes it easier to cook pasta. Or, you may get a colander separately, and use that.
4. SAUTÉ PAN: I love sauté pans, and use them all the time. Again, they are very versatile, and I recommend getting ones without wooden handles, so that you can put the sauté pan in the oven as well. Use the sauté pan for preparing stir fries, sautéing meat and fish, cooking vegetables, frying egg and much, much more.
5. ROASTING PAN: These are perfect for preparing things in the oven. From roast to roasted chicken to roasted vegetables, a roasting pan can help you cook your favorite dishes in the oven.

As you work through your cookbooks, you’ll quickly learn what to add to your collection.

Order your free Miles Kimble catalog for some of the coolest kitchen cookware, bakeware, serving pieces, storage containers, cookbooks, along with a wide variety of time saving gadgets. 

Safe Wood Working Means Quality Tools

Over the years, I have learned the hard way that an inferior tool not only has a short life span, resulting in having to invest in the same tools all over again, but can also be very dangerous to use. I have had chisels splinter and break; cutting tools lose their edge after a couple of passes on a piece of wood; and other tools break within minutes of coming out of the package.

Taking the time to invest in well made and a well cared for tools can literally save you thousands of dollars in the long run and will give you a life time of enjoyment.

To start a viable woodshop, there are some essential tools needed to complete most of your wood projects.

Hand Tools for Shaping Wood

·      Clamps: You will need a variety of types and sizes. I would recommend purchasing clamps as you need them. Within a few short years you will have an extensive collection.

·      Bench chisels: You will need about a half a dozen of these in a variety of sizes from ¼ to one inch.

·      Stiff, wire brushes

·      Saws: You will need a back saw, tenon and dovetail saws. These get used often in woodworking. A danger in buying any of these saws used can be damaged teeth. In all cases make sure that you keep your saws sharpened.

·      Planes are used for smoothing. Get a few different planes, at least a block plane and jointer to start with.

·      Scrapers are needed for a variety of projects. Look for a paint scraper and a hand scraper to get started.

·      Files: Get good size, sturdy files in a ten inch size. Look for smooth and bastard mill files to start with and add others later.

Other Hand Tools You’ll Need

·   Hammer: get a good quality hammer. A 16 ounce hammer is a good, versatile hammer.

·   Mallet for driving chisels

·   Allen wrenches in a variety of sizes

·   Screwdrivers in Phillips and flat heads. Get a good set in several sizes of each

·   T bevel

·   Tape measure

·   Steel rulers

·   Level

·   Squares

·   Awls: marking and scratch

·   Pliers: channel lock and needle nose

·   Putty knife

·   Utility knife

·   Protractor

Before you spend money on inferior tools, take a moment to order the "Traditional Hand Tools for Woodworkers” catalog from Traditional Woodworker Corp. It’s free with free shipping and will provide you with a selection of the highest quality tools.

 

The World of VW Bug Parts

Did you ever wonder why Volkswagen began manufacturing the Bug again? The answer is simple. It’s because there are still millions being driven all over the country.  

This has lead to an entire industry dedicated to VW Bug parts. This is true in the US and the rest of the world. With the demand for VW Bugs, parts companies have created their own little niche.

And it’s not just mainstream VW Bug parts that are popular. Owners are customizing their Bugs so specialty VW Bug parts are also the rage, to include a large market for accessories.

As with most popular car, there are two distinct groups of people who are looking for VW parts.

The first group is made up of ‘purists.’ They are concerned with being able to present a vehicle as it was originally manufactured. They insist that authentic VW auto parts cannot be replaced by any other brand if you are to retain the high standards of your Volkswagen car. They are adamant about using only OEM, or original equipment manufacturer VW auto parts. This essentially entails replacing the worn VW parts with another of the exact same brand that the car originally came with. Can you say “big money”?

Others are firm about the fact that there are other brands that can be used as VW parts. These are aftermarket parts, and are essentially parts that were brought out by other companies after your car model was released. They are auto parts that were not in the original models but are compatible with them. They can be used as replacement VW auto parts as long as they meet the standards of the original VW parts.

Activity is high in both the OEM and Aftermarket sales of VW auto parts, thanks to the continuing popularity of Volkswagen models. Just do a simple search online and you’ll probably find more dealers for VW parts than you will for the actual cars. It is a thriving business, with room for manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers. There are many companies and individuals who are making a large profit from creating or selling VW auto parts. In fact, it can be argued that the VW parts industry might just be larger than the Volkswagen car industry.

For over 95 years, JC Whitney Auto Parts & Accessories has been America's trusted partner. If you’re a VW enthusiast you will want to order your free VW catalog today. Click on the icon to order from EZ-Request.com and they will have your catalog sent to you immediately!

An Easy Way to Impress Your Guests

You don't need to spend hours and hours developing appetizers that may or may not appeal to your weekend guests.

One sure fire way to find appetizers that will get the job done is to use restaurant recipes. These recipes have been developed by skilled chefs that mimic some of the best entrees, appetizers and desserts from America's most popular restaurants.

Professional appetizer recipes are quite easy to follow, and use common ingredients that may be purchased from any local grocery store. Instructions for creating these scrumptious appetizers are usually very straightforward and easy to follow.

Many of these recipes can be completed in less than an hour and supplimented with a variety of garnishments that will impress your guests. Simply choose a few appetizers that cover a wide range of tastes and you’re in business.

Use recipes that are proven winners as well as time savers and feel confident that you're serving appetizers that are solid winners.

Finally, remember that the presentation is equally important in giving your guests a complete experience.

For an amazing selection of formal and informal serving trays, bowls, plates, and much more, order your free Walter Drake catalog from EZ-Request.com.

8 Points to Collecting Comics

Recently I watched a man sell a life time’s work of collecting multiple toy train sets he had gathered from all over the world. When asked what he was going to do next, he simply replied , “I am a collector at heart and I will start collecting something new.”

In the world of comic book collecting most people start out collecting for fun, while others collect for pure profit.

Comic book collections can vary tremendously depending on your interests, personality and goals for your particular collection.

Whether you collect for keeps or for profit, here are some ideas that are sure to enhance your collection.

1. Select a comic book title that interests you and start your collection from there.
2. Do not stick to one comic book title. Related titles also become hot pursuits for collectors.
3. Look for titles that are not popularly known to the public but are considered valuable to collectors.
4. Purchase different covers of one comic book issue. Some publishers release more than one cover for a comic book issue to increase market sales.
5. First issues and first appearances are sure to increase in value over time.
6. Look for comic books worth purchasing in different places and events, such as conventions and online.
7. Trading is a great way to increase your collection, especially when you have more than one copy of a certain issue—keeping in mind the value of the comic books you will be trading. The Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide is a good source for old comic book titles.
8. And preserve your comic books. The condition of the comic book will dictate its value. Comic book conditions will range from Very Poor to New/Mint.

If you enjoy comic books you may be interested in “Bud's Art Books”; a unique catalog featuring the best in art, illustration, film, photography and nostalgia.

Guys! Think Twice Before Giving Funny Gifts

All through school and into adulthood, I have enjoyed giving gag gifts to my buddies. Yet my dad gave me some sound advice when giving gifts to women (my mom, girlfriend—now my wife—daughters and even my sister.) He said women look at gift giving differently than men. Gifts given by and received by women revolve around their hearts. And it is our responsibility as men to value the tenderness that is unique to a woman’s heart.

As the years have gone by, I have seen how my dad’s advice was sound and wise. General occasions of gift giving are taken more seriously by women; and by nature women are more sensitive, and more likely, therefore, to be upset by someone’s clumsy attempt at being humorous. 

It is always best to be sincere in your attempt to recognize an important occasion. Always remember it is not about the gift itself, it’s about the thought that you put into picking a gift.  And here is the key. For her, it is your intention that turns a humbly wrapped trinket into precious treasure every time.

     

The Pickup Truck – the New American “Car”

In the late 1800's a German engineer built the first motorized truck. His truck consisted of a four horsepower engine, belt drive, and one reverse speed and two speeds for going forward.

Today, trucks are used for a myriad of reasons, and many different types of people own and drive them. Farmers everywhere use trucks to haul hay and small farm equipment, to move cattle as well as supplies. Those in the landscape and lawn maintenance industries also use trucks; wherein trailers are attached to the trucks in order to get lawn equipment from job to job.

Trucks are not only used for job related tasks, camping and boating enthusiasts also utilize them. There are not many reliable cars that are going to be able to pull a large, recreational type boat or camper, and where would you put the skis, ice chests and other necessities if the trucks’ spacious bed were not available?

Trucks are made by a number of vehicle manufacturers. There are the regular size passenger trucks that seat only two people, and the large extended cab trucks that can seat five people comfortably. There are the plain trucks that come with just the basics, and trucks that come fully loaded with every available option.

Some people enjoy the sport of four wheeling, and so they purchase trucks that allow them to drive over rough terrain and through bogs of mud! These trucks are equipped with 4-wheel drive, while other trucks not intended for this purpose would come standard with 2-wheel drive.

When in search of a truck, you will need to examine your needs, and also determine exactly what the truck will be used for. If you have a family, you might consider a truck with the large extended cab. However, if you need a solid piece of transportation that can be utilized to haul things around, and that you can attach a trailer to, a standard truck might just be a worthwhile investment.

Whatever the intended purpose, there is a wide variety of useful and interesting accessories that can enhance the enjoyment of owning a truck.

Check out these great free catalogs on EZ-Request.com. Order today and we will ship them to immediately free of charge!

        

   

7 Small Business Trade Show Truths

There is a false belief that trade shows are only for big business, yet when you look closely at the actual companies attending you will find a very high percentage are small businesses.

Another false belief is it’s too expensive to participate; that you need a large budget to make an effective presentation. Not only is this not true, but you will quickly see the intrinsic value a trade show will bring to you—and not just new clients.

So let’s go over a few key points as to why it’s important to attend and exhibit at trade shows, even if you are just starting your business or running a small company:

1. Learn Your Competition

As an owner of a small company, here is an opportunity to obtain competitive intelligence first hand—to assess the strengths and weaknesses of other businesses.

Take advantage of this opportunity. You will want to walk around the trade show at the very beginning before everybody gets to know everybody among exhibitors. Your objective is to ask lots of questions.

You goal is to accomplish the following:

• Grab one of those free sacks at the hall's entrance and walk around gathering as much literature as you care to carry. When you get home, you can carefully go over all the literature.
• Carefully observe how others are applying the latest marketing ideas and concepts.
• Get on the mailing lists and take part in market surveys. And don’t forget to subscribe to the free or discounted trade journals.
• And there is all that ‘free’ stuff the kids and grandkids enjoy like pens, coffee mugs, golf balls (well that’s for you,) and whatever else catches your attention.

2. What do other businesses think about your business?

As you stop at each booth, introducing yourself with only your first name, show interest in the products and services being offered. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

It is here you learn about your competitor’s product line and it is also an opportunity for you to learn what your competition thinks about your business. Since they don't know who you really are, they'll tell you what they really think. You may be surprised by what you learn and what is being told to potential clients.

Studies show that companies are more eager to open up and talk about their competition at a trade show than in any other situation.

Trade show analysts and experts know that investigating your completion is a primary function of these shows. It’s the most cost-effective hand-on marketing analysis that can be conducted by a business owner.

3. Talk with the Buyers

A trade show gives you the most qualified prospects and buyers. These people responded to the trade show advertising and are there because they are interested in your products and services. Real-time potential customer feedback gives you the other side of the marketing spectrum. You learn how these people see and perceive your products and services.

4. Talk with the Industry Press

Meet with people from your industry's trade press. They always attend those events and you will probably never get a better chance to speak one-on-one with the top editorial staff.

5. Talk with the Distribution Channels

Meet with distributors, wholesalers, brokers and others who are part of your business’s distribution channel.

6. Lead Generation

Here is where you want to shine by building your prospect database; gathering mailing information, email addresses, and phone numbers. This is actually the meat of attending a trade show - creating a follow up mailing list. It does not matter how you gather the information (collecting information from business cards, paper list or scanned visitor tags.)

Remember to must follow up on each prospect immediately! The quicker you follow-up on each lead, the better your odds will be in converting a prospect into a client.

It’s all about showing your prospects you provide quality customer service.

7. Sell

Finally, there is nothing wrong with making a sale at the trade show. While the primary function is marketing and making a favorable impression with follow-up calls securing the sale, you may be talking with someone who would like to purchase your product or service now.

The important point here is to make sure you are ready to do business by having everything you need to complete the sale. Plan ahead and allow for the opportunity for serious business. You will bring the obvious items like contracts, credit card forms (or wireless credit card machine,) and whatever else you require to close a sale. You should also consider finding a place to sit down with your prospective client and talk with them at length away from the people traffic in front of your booth. This can be a conference room, concession area table, spot at rear of the booth, or a scheduled meeting to be held later at your company office.

Remember! A weak "let me get back to you" attitude will lose the sale. You have to be prepared; if your prospect sees that you are not ready to close the transaction right there, on the spot they'll leave and buy from one of your competitors at the same trade show.

With all that said, learn more about affordable displays from a company that provides an amazing variety of displays to include displays that are perfect for small businesses attending trade shows.  Order your free “Winter 2011” catalog with free shipping.