(warning … rant coming on)

Tradeshows: They often provide a platform for coverage and can be great PR venues to meet press, bloggers and media. They are even better venues to have meaningful conversations with those same people and begin building relationships. Unfortunately, they’re also the time when a growing population of PR pros gives the rest of us a bad, used car salesman-like, name.

During the last few tradeshows I’ve been to, I’ve been surprised at how many PR people think it’s okay to literally accost anyone with that coveted color-coded name badge. It apparently no longer matters if that reporter/editor/blogger/analyst actually covers the right space. I’ve listened to reporters say, repeatedly, that they are only interested in X and still, they must endure a product pitch on Q. Usually, they’ll give in and hear the pitch just to get away … but I’m sure that following the event, they are still bombarded with calls and emails wondering why they didn’t write something based on being cornered at the event.

With the fall tradeshow season in full swing, I’m asking you to remember you’re not a used care salesman. Do your work before the event – schedule meetings if you have news or an interesting (relevant to the event) story. If a reporter says she’ll stop by the booth, watch for her name and introduce yourself. Talk with her, not at her. Talk about how the show’s going and introduce her to your executives. If she doesn’t have time for a demo, respect that and offer to set up a follow up discussion after the event.

During the event, take advantage of the networking opportunities built into the schedule. Focus on sitting next to reporters during lunch or going up to them at a cocktail party. Try asking them questions not related to what you’re pitching. How’s the show going? What’s the hottest trend you’re seeing? What did you think of the keynote? Did you catch the football game? Comment on their blog if you really read it. (It’s called networking)

When you do introduce yourself to a reporter, be upfront about being a PR person and tell him which company you’re with. Ask him about his coverage before diving into your elevator pitch. If his focus isn’t relevant to you, don’t just walk away. You’ll be surprised at how interesting a non-self serving conversation can be … and eventually, his focus or your company/client will change.

And finally, for heaven’s sake, don’t jump in front of them, don’t try to tackle them and don’t accost them in the line to the bathroom. All that does is annoy the reporters and honestly, it’s embarrassing for the rest of us.