Whether it’s a huge exhibition or a small forum, a business event is an ideal opportunity to raise your company’s profile. But how can you ensure you and your business make a great impression? Read on to find out.
Prepping for the event
In the run-up to the event, post a few updates on social media to let your audience know that you’ll be attending and encourage them to say hello on the day. Remember to tag the host, so you reach their connections too. You should also keep your audience in mind when deciding what promotional materials to take:
- Branded pull-up banners create a strong impact from across the room.
- Flyers or postcards allow you to give more information without verbally bombarding your audience.
- Company business cards are a must, and branded name tags add a professional touch.
- Everyone loves a freebie, so have branded giveaways that your audience will find valuable, interesting or useful.
- Sign-up forms are a good idea if you want to capture people’s contact details.
- And unless it’s a dentistry convention, a bowl of sweets always goes down well!
Here’s a real-life example. Earlier this month, we participated in the breathe Partner Summit, an annual event that brings together more than 100 HR professionals in the swanky surroundings of London’s De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms. To present OCTOPUS to this audience, we prepared branded banners and postcards, and had stacks of OCTOPUS pens and notepads to give away – because busy people always need stationery.
Making a lasting impression on the day
You’ve shined your shoes, polished your name badge and arranged your stand beautifully. Now what? The most important thing is to make yourself approachable – so smile and don’t hide behind a table. And if people are too shy to approach you (it happens), go over and talk to them.
When chatting, don’t fall into the classic trap of ‘sell, sell, sell’. Ask questions, show an interest in their work, and listen to what they have to say. Find out about their needs to see if your business can help. Finally, don’t forget to ask for their contact details so you can stay in touch.
Following up afterwards
Relationships are the key to business success, so be sure to follow up with your new contacts. Drop them a line to say how nice it was to meet them. Engage with them on social media. Suggest ways you might be able to work together. Even if you can’t immediately help with their business needs, keep in touch to ensure your business stays on their radar.
As business support specialists, OCTOPUS has many years’ experience delivering memorable events. Tell us what you have in mind, and we’ll get on the case.
