Badges are usually color coded so you can tell if the person is an exhibitor, bookstore owner, press member, visitor or author. Many people switch or borrow badges, and you may neglect a major sales opportunity by ignoring someone with a bogus visitor's badge in favor of one with a legitimate bookstore-buyer's badge. Be nice to everyone. If used properly, a giveaway item may help you get people to stop and talk with you. It does not have to be big or elaborate.
Many companies offer free services or they make water, coffee or candy available.
Your promotion will be most effective if it is inexpensive, of interest and value to those in your target market and related to your theme. There are other tips to help you reach your objectives for exhibiting. Work with at least two people at your booth. This will give each time to rest, walk the show, network, look for new ideas and perform research. You will talk with many potential customers during the show, and the likelihood of you remembering every conversation is not high.