Exhibiting at a Trade Show is hard work. It’s also a great social PR opportunity—and an important one at that. As soon as your company decides to attend a particular show, it’s time to connect with your colleagues and network.
Reconnecting early can be their reminder to extend an invite to that important party, or that by-invitation-only breakfast you’ll want to attend. It’s the perfect chance to catch-up and spread the Buzz on your new products. It’s also a chance to learn the industry scoop.
Scan the Show program for pre-show events and cocktail receptions that allow you to meet the industry influencers. Speaker dinners may seem a dull way to spend your first night in New York City, but the time put in is a personal PR opportunity for you and your company.
It’s a way to draw traffic to your Booth through your discussion of that new innovation and the great giveaway that you give a sneak-peek. Some conventions offer a party atmosphere to participate in a cause. At the Book Expo America Convention, the American Booksellers Foundation For Free Expression holds an annual fundraising event for First Amendment Rights that is also tax deductible.
Large corporations often have great parties that major players attend and are reported on in the pre-show coverage. Trade magazines and industry blogs will prepare you for the social events that are off-site. Make your list early for the right market segment and listen well at networking events. Check My Space and Facebook as well for company pages that may talk about their parties.
So have fun as you represent your Brand. Participate in the party atmosphere and enjoy the relaxed one-on-one. You never know who you’ll meet.
Attended any great Trade Show parties? Let us know.
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