It's no secret: when it comes to creating an effective trade show display, a picture truly is worth a thousand words. You may be the best salesman in your industry, but a poorly designed trade show display can sink your business pitch before you even talk to the first customer. With the stakes this high, planning an effective trade show display can seem like a daunting task. However, with a little advanced planning, a creative, custom display and an attractive banner display, your booth can truly be the best in show.

Know your space. Before planning your trade show display, get specifics on the venue where you will be exhibiting. How much space will you have for your display, and how much space will there be between you and your neighbor's display? Will you have access to electrical outlets? Will a tablecloth be provided? This information will help you determine how much - and what type - of materials you should bring.

Tip: Even if the venue supplies a tablecloth, bring your own or a table runner in a contrasting color to add visual interest to your table. And if you need access to an outlet, bring your own power strip and an extension cord! Don't rely on the venue to supply these for you.

Add a banner display.

A colorful banner stand next to your display will help your booth stand out from your neighbor's. Available in a variety of sizes, colors and shapes, a banner display is a great way to introduce a new product, enhance brand awareness, or emphasize a company logo and contact information. If you already own an exhibit booth, invest in a banner stand to update your existing display without spending a fortune. Choose a contrasting color and material to really make your display pop.

Tip: After the trade show, keep your banner display working for your business! A banner display is a great addition to your storefront or retail space, and it adds a professional touch at your next conference.

Invest in a custom display.

Nothing packs as big a wow factor as a custom display at a trade show. Depending on the size of your display area, a fully customized display can create an entirely new environment for your company, visually and physically separating your display from the rest of the trade show. Popular custom display elements include an elevated seating area, a partial roof covering for your display and a multi-level or curved background. Creative, professional and memorable, a custom display truly sets your company above the other trade show participants.

Tip: Some companies offer discounts up to 50% on pre-designed custom displays. While these displays were previously built for another company, with a few minor adjustments (and your own graphics), you can make them all your own and enjoy a custom display for a fraction of the price.

Enhance a small trade show display with accessories. If you don't have the space (or money) for a larger, customized display, enhance your existing display with a few key accessories. Keep your product information and company brochures organized with a literature stand. Select a few bold tablecloth or table runner. Add a free-standing prize wheel and give away company-branded accessories.

Tip: Trade show venues are often dimly lit or rely on harsh overhead lights. Brighten up your display with a few strategically placed lights highlighting your banner stand, literature display or company logo and contact information.

Borrow the best from your competition.

Whether you are a seasoned regular or this is your first time exhibiting at a trade show, visit a few shows as an attendee. Which displays catch your eye and which send your running in the opposite direction? A quick lap through a trade show will help get your creative juices flowing with ideas for improving your own exhibit.

Tip: If you are on a budget, pay special attention to banner displays and accessories you like; these are low-cost upgrades.