Tradeshows and conferences are an excellent way to showcase your company, network, and generate new business. Be sure that the event you are attending is right for your company - you’ll want to see who the audience is and if they are the right people you want to target. It’s also important to decide how you want to attend - are you OK with just being an attendee and networking, or is it worth more of an investment to sponsor the event? No matter how you participate, attending a tradeshow or conference it is important to represent your company in the right way - so check out our tips below.
5 Best Practices To Best Represent Your Company or Venue
Dress to Impress
As in any situation, you want to put your best foot forward when talking to potential clients or networking with industry professionals. For most conferences, business casual is appropriate - but be sure to check the conference website for any official dress codes. If you are working at your company’s booth at a tradeshow, wearing something with your company’s name, logo, or brand colors is a good idea and will help people remember you.
EventUp at Event Planner Expo 2021 in New York City.
Be Prepared
Be sure that you have everything you need to network and provide information on your company. The number one thing you should be bringing to a tradeshow or conference is your business card - you’ll want to be sure to hand out as many as you can so people can follow up with you. Also, be confident in how you talk about the services or products your company provides - and be prepared to answer any questions potential clients may have. You’ll want to have some marketing materials handy as well to give to people for them to review when they get back to their offices.
Don't Be Shy
Waiting for someone to go up to you and ask you questions can cause you to miss out on making many important connections. If you spot a person available to talk, take your chance. After all, everyone is there for a reason. With that being said, it is very important to be personable and friendly. Talking to someone who sounds as if they are reading a script or as if they don't want to be there is quite discouraging. Remember to smile and act enthused. If you're excited about your company, others will be too.
EventUp at EventCamp 2021 in New York City.
Participate
Most conferences and events have networking opportunities set up after sessions are done, and a lot of the time companies will host cocktail parties after the event wraps up for the day. Be sure to attend and participate in as much as you can - you never know who you will meet and when - and you’re there to meet as many people as possible. If there is a free night, try inviting potential clients, or current clients out to dinner. Remember that even at after-hours events, you’ll want to represent your company in a professional manner - you’re still on the clock.
Take Notes and Follow up
If someone gives you a business card, remember a few of the things you spoke with them about and write it down. Contact them after the conference in a timely manner. If you wait a few months, they may have already decided to work with your competitor. When you do so, use the notes you took. It will show that you value them and are truly interested.
How do you represent your company or venue at a conference or trade show? Know of any dos and don'ts for trade shows or conferences? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or on Facebook or Twitter.
