1.Get attendees Involved and create a buzz
Don’t wait until the show starts to generate interest. In the weeks leading up to the event, leverage social media or email marketing to engage attendees. For example, you could hold a poll to let them vote on the swag they’d like to receive at your booth- logos, pencils, T-shirts, etc. . This not only creates pre-show buzz but also provides valuable insights into your audience’s preferences.
2.Give something which is not ordinary
Free pens and mugs are a dime a dozen at trade shows. While they might get tossed aside, a unique giveaway can leave a lasting impression. Consider offering something quirky yet relevant to your brand. This could be anything from corporate headphones to laptop skins, customized socks, or even Rubik’s cubes. The options are endless, and the potential for memorability is huge!
3. Learn from your competitors
Before the show or conference, do your research. Check out the big people in your industry and see what they’re bringing to the table. Are they using interactive displays? Offering enticing contests? Take note of successful elements you can adapt for your own booth or hall , while keeping your approach unique and on-brand.
4. Invest in quality & professional displays
A professional display speaks volumes about your brand. Don’t settle for a sad-looking table and a flimsy banner. Consider allocating some budget towards a visually appealing and well-constructed display. This shows you’re invested in making a good impression and portrays your company as professional and reliable. Bonus points if the display elements are reusable for future events!
5. Send communications in advance to attract more visitors
Pre-show preparation is key for any event. We utilize attendee lists to identify potential collaborators and industry leaders we’d like to connect with. By sending personalized emails beforehand, we break the ice and build relationships before the event, leading to more productive conversations at our booth.
6.Use Social media to its fullest.
Social media can be a game-changer for attracting attendees to your trade show or conference. In the lead-up to the event, leverage its power to build excitement and anticipation. Create a catchy event hashtag to centralize online conversations and encourage its use through contests and giveaways. Offer prizes relevant to your target audience and require them to follow your accounts and share the event. This not only incentivizes participation but also expands your reach and attracts new potential attendees. Consider hosting live Q&A sessions with speakers or industry influencers to build anticipation and allow potential attendees to get a taste of the valuable insights they’ll gain at the event.
7. Keep the conversation alive
Thank attendees for their participation and leverage social media to solicit feedback. Run polls or ask open-ended questions to gather valuable insights into what attendees enjoyed and areas for improvement. This feedback is instrumental in planning even better events and ensuring long-term success through social media engagement.
