How to Set Up a Display Table

You’ve been volunteered to man a table at an event Great! Maybe you’ve never done it before You’re excited – but nervous Now what?

Are you going to be In a classroom? At a table? Indoors or outdoor? On a ship?

What will you need to know about the area? Weather Will it be rainy? Windy? Hot? Dress appropriately Cover Will there be tents? Other form of cover?

Tables How many will be needed/provided? Tablecloths? Backboard? Stands? Props? Racks? Rocks/rubber bands?

All ages – adults and children? All children? What age groups? All adults? General public? Boaters? Marina operators? Civilian or military? Specialized groups?

Most importantly – What is your message? Specific information? General information? Think about what information you are trying to convey It can be based on the materials on the table

You don’t have to be an expert in everything Should have a BASIC general knowledge of all of the materials If you are a “specialist” you can do that area, let others do their “specialty” People will ask questions. Be prepared. Ok to say you don’t know, but offer to get back to them if really important or where they can get the info

Public perception YOU are the Coast Guard Proper uniform worn in the proper manner If not sure, check the Aux Manual, Chapter 10, or ask someone

Definitely helps if you like dealing with people Outgoing Friendly Polite Not afraid to be a little “silly” with the kids

ENGAGE THE PEOPLE!!!! Single biggest thing we don’t do Don’t just hand out colouring books Make eye contact Speak to them first Lead into the material – explain the brochure Get them interested

Don’t forget the little ones…

Have a “hook” Be creative Why would someone want to come to your table?

Sitting back talking to others in the group Not engaging the people that come to the table Improper/sloppy uniforms Standing in front of the table and talking Sloppy presentation of materials Not “bringing” people to the table Talking to only part of your audience Don’t talk in acronyms!!

Props Catch their eye Make them look at the table Make them wonder what “that” is over there If kids come to you, the parents have to follow Colour Use colour paper instead of white Stand brochures up instead of flat so can be seen

Set up of the table Look at your table Does it look interesting? Would YOU walk over to it? Arrange the materials in some logical order Stand materials/brochures upright in holders when possible Use colour or something eye-catching

Use props If the next booth has “cool stuff” and you don’t, use them to help bring the people to you, but then make sure you have something to say when they come to your table

Marine Safety/Environmental Protection Sea Partners Boating Safety America’s Waterway Watch Recruiting Aux Air “Regulatory” items

Depending what venue you are at: Know the protocols Boarding a military vessel Saluting Keep in mind that you are representing much more than yourself. Know who to “report to” if there are problems or questions Bring business cards of someone to contact

Don’t be afraid to “play” with the youngsters Have fun Play games or use fun facts or lines Did you know you can wear plastic bottles? Have fun Teach and learn Have fun

You will learn more over time and put your personal touch on your presentations Learn as you go Find new things/ways to present Be a mentor. Share your knowledge and train others If you do not have a mentor, you lose – if you are not a mentor, the Coast Guard loses