Issuing an effective RFP is a time-intensive undertaking that requires planning and experience which equals time, lots of time. Effective and efficient communication when choosing the right partner for your trade show and event needs can help save you time.

Are you currently hearing crickets while hosting group vendor calls and wonder why no one is asking intelligent, thought-provoking questions? Hosting group vendor calls is a bad idea, for everyone involved. Vendors are likely to remain quiet out of fear of tipping their hand to the competition. Make it a best practice to nix the group calls altogether and focus on communicating with vendors individually.

Tony Robbins once said:

"SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE ASK BETTER QUESTIONS, AND AS A RESULT, THEY GET BETTER ANSWERS."

We agree with Tony and recommend limiting the competition pool to less than five vendors. This ensures you’ll get quality questions over quantity. And the truth is, people matter. RFPs should be used to evaluate not only vendor capabilities but also the potential working relationship between you and the chosen vendor’s employees/associates/team.

When it comes to RFP responses we stand by the motto, “less is more,” and we’re confident through thoughtful and effective communication you will identify the partner best for your needs.

For more RFP best practices, check out our eBook on, The Five Essential Components of an Effective RFP.

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