Professional tradeshows aren’t all they’re cracked up to be. While there are benefits to attending, potential attendees should approach these events with a critical eye. For instance, it’s important to be wary of tradeshows that have an inventor section run by a nonprofit organization that claims to represent the interests of independent inventors. More often than not, these nonprofit organizations are simply trying to funnel money into their own pockets at the inventors’ expense. Additionally, it’s a good idea to avoid tradeshows with exhibitor names that are impossible to pronounce and shows that attract a large international following. A high percentage of international attendees may signal that the show has been overrun by foreign entities, meaning a low percentage of attendees are American buyers. It’s also important to pick a professional tradeshow that specifically caters to your industry rather than your status as an inventor. If you follow these rules, you can increase your odds of having a successful experience at a professional tradeshow.