This week I’m coming to you live on video from the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas with a poem straight from the speaker lounge:

Trade shows only work

When goals and reality

Converge at your booth.

In this episode of Poetry in Marketing, I reflect on the disconnect that often happens at trade shows—where expectations for lead gen and sales don’t match the reality of what the event actually delivers. Whether you’re walking into a massive industry showcase or a small regional expo, your investment only pays off when your goals align with what the show is truly built to offer.

If you’ve ever left a trade show wondering “was that worth it?”... This one’s for you.