Love them or hate them, you can’t ignore that event season is well and truly upon us. From massive, sprawling expos that last a couple of days to more niche and specialist events, no matter what B2B sector you operate in, there will be a trade event for you.
With reduced headcounts and busy schedules, taking time out to attend an event as a visitor or an exhibitor can be really hard to justify. However, exhibitions offer the opportunity to stay up-to-date with the latest goings-on in your industry and if you exhibit, the chance to increase brand visibility and to hopefully boost your business leads pipeline.
As a B2B PR consultancy there’s even trade events for us to visit or exhibit at to help us increase our brand presence and to learn more about what’s going on in our sector.
Time out of the office is valuable, and if you’re actually exhibiting it’s expensive too, so you should ensure that you get the most out of the experience. So, here are Skout’s top tips to make sure you’re getting the most out of your trade exhibition attendance.
- Do your research. If you’re attending as an exhibitor, plan your day in advance. Check out which keynote sessions you plan to attend and which stands you really want to visit.
- Exhibiting your wares. If your stall in well-manned, take some time to explore the event. Use it as an opportunity to enhance your industry knowledge and have a good look round to see what’s new in your sector.
- PR opportunities. Events often attract industry journalists and if you arrange it in advance they are often happy (subject to availability of course) to come and meet you for an update on your business.
- Check out your competitors. Exhibitions are a really great way to take a look at how your competitors present themselves publicly. Take a look at their literature and their branding and don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to find out how they are finding the event.
- Wear comfy shoes. And finally, never underestimate the miles you can clock up at an exhibition, or if you’re manning the stand the time you’re likely to spend on your feet. Comfy shoes are a must!
If you want to know more about planning for an event check out Event Industry News.
