Attending events is a golden opportunity for businesses to connect with potential clients, partners, and industry leaders. But a lot of business owners and sales people find it difficult to know how to make the most of the money spent in events. You’ll need a strategic approach. Lucky for you, here at Brand Ambition we have you sorted. Here are some tips from the team on how to stand out and make a lasting impression at events.

Set Your Goal for the Day

First things first, figure out what you want to achieve. Are you there to generate leads, network with industry pros, or boost brand awareness? Having clear, specific goals will guide your actions and keep you focused throughout the event. Trust us, it’s way easier to measure success when you know what you’re aiming for (and much easier to justify the spend on future events to your CFO!). 

Reach Out to Priority Conversations Early

Events can be a whirlwind with so many people, workshops, and sessions. You really don’t want to be trying to start up a conversation with someone while they’re in the middle of the feat of acrobatics that is a standing lunch. 

To make sure you don’t miss out, identify the key individuals you want to connect with beforehand. Reach out to them early through social media or event apps, LinkedIn is a great channel for this. Engaging early helps you connect with high-priority contacts before the event gets too hectic, and gives you an idea of their interest in you & your company.

Have a Hook 

Standing out in a sea of booths can be tough. And if you’ve booked an event with a booth before, the pricing means that you’re really going to need to stand out. That’s why you need a killer hook. Think exclusive demos, fun contests, or unique giveaways. A compelling hook will draw attendees to your booth, and give you more chances for meaningful interactions. Make your booth a must-visit spot, not just a place to pass by. 

Be Friendly

This goes almost without saying, but needs to be mentioned. Be nice to the poor attendees, they’re being sold at all day. 

Always Ask a Question at the End of a Talk

This is a special tip from our MD Sam here at Brand Ambition. Prepare one insightful question when you are listening to a speaker for the Q&A session. Asking smart questions shows your expertise and interest, making you more memorable to both the speaker and other attendees. Bonus points if you mention your company’s name before you ask your question. Just make sure the question is relevant. 

Asking a question to a speaker is a great way to stand out and also makes you much more approachable in networking sessions as people will have at least a tiny bit of familiarity with you. 

Follow Up After

Don’t let those new connections fade away! Collect contact information and jot down notes on key conversations during the event, if someone doesn’t want to give you contact information, they aren’t interested, give them a ‘your loss’ and be on your way. 

We also recommend sending personalised follow-up messages within 1-2 working days, no later! Following up promptly keeps you & your business top of mind and solidifies the relationships you’ve started. It shows professionalism and keeps the momentum going on any further conversations you may have. 

By engaging early, using hooks, being approachable, actively participating, and following up, you’re giving yourself the best chances to hit your established goals for the day. One final tip I’ll give you for free as a wrap up is that you’ll need lots of practice to become ‘good at events’. So what are you still doing here? Go get ‘em tiger.