When you're attending an industry event, the success of your exhibiting campaign can hinge on engagement strategies. You want people to not just look at your booth but actively participate in what you're doing.
Unfortunately, with so many other exhibitors vying for attention, it can be tough to get people interested. But don't worry - we've got you covered.
In this blog post, we'll discuss ten engagement tactics that will help get people talking and taking action! Keep reading to learn more.
1. Build Hype Before the Event
One engagement tactic you can use is building hype before the event. This tactic could involve creating social media posts in the weeks leading up to the event or sending email blasts to your list.
You can also get people excited by focusing on trade show booth design. Make sure your booth is eye-catching and inviting, with plenty of activities for people to do.
2. Focus on Swag
Another way to engage people is by offering some great swag. That could be anything from t-shirts and pens to more unique items like branded cookies or sunglasses.
If you want to stand out, create an experience for people at your booth. That could involve games, interactive displays, or even a photo booth.
3. Host Social Media Contests and Raffles
People love social media, so why not use it to your advantage? During the event, host social media contests and raffles. Doing this will encourage people to follow your brand on social media and stay engaged with your booth.
Here is a list of creative social media activities to get the event attendees involved:
- Win if you check-in
- Like, share & comment to win
- Creative video contest
- The most shares take the win
- Share for swag
- Post a selfie
- Hashtag scavenger hunt
- Trivia Question Mania
- Retweet to win
By implementing just a few of these engagement strategies, you're sure to see an increase in interest and participation at your next industry event!
4. Offer a Giveaway
People love free stuff, so offer a giveaway at your booth. Freebies could be anything from a t-shirt to a gift card. To get people interested, make sure the prize is something they want.
You can also increase engagement by making the giveaway social media-friendly. For example, you could require people to follow your brand on social media or share a post to enter.
5. Be Smart About Location
When choosing a location for your booth, be smart about it. For example, if you're at a large trade show, try to get a spot near the entrance or exit. That will ensure that people have to walk by your booth at some point.
You can also increase engagement by being near other popular booths. Doing this will draw people to your area and give you a chance to talk to them about your brand.
6. Offer Free Food
Food is always a popular engagement tactic. People love free food, so consider offering snacks or even full meals at your booth.
Offering free food will attract people and give them something to remember. Just be sure to choose healthy options that won't make people sluggish.
What Are Healthy Options?
Choosing healthy food that's also delicious can be tricky. But with some creativity, it is possible to find healthy and popular foods. Some ideas include:
- Fruit cups
- Veggie trays
- Pita and hummus
- Sandwiches on whole wheat bread
- Wraps made with lettuce or collard greens
- Yogurt parfaits
- Granola bars
- Fruit and nut bars
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Dried fruit
- Popcorn
- Fresh-pressed juice or smoothies
By offering healthy choices, you'll be sure to please many people. And who knows - you might even convert some non-healthy eaters!
7. Perform Live Demos and Product Samples
If you want people to engage with your product, offer live demos and product samples. Doing this will allow them to try out your product and see how it works.
You can also use this opportunity to talk to people about their specific needs and how your product can help them.
8. Have Downloadable Content and Material
Make sure you have plenty of downloadable content and printed material at your booth. That could include e-books, whitepapers, and even coupons.
By offering this content, you can get people interested in your brand. Plus, they'll have something to take home after the event.
9. Collaborate With Other Exhibitors
If you're looking for ways to stand out, consider collaborating with other exhibitors. For example, collaborating could involve co-sponsoring a contest or hosting a joint workshop.
By working together, you can reach a wider audience and increase engagement at your booth.
What Industry Niches Collaborate Well Together?
It's an idea to collaborate with another business or exhibitor that would complement yours but not in direct competition. For example, if you sell skincare products, you could collaborate with a makeup artist or esthetician.
Likewise, you could collaborate with a jewelry designer if you sell women's clothing. Get creative and think outside the box!
By collaborating with other exhibitors, you can reach a wider audience and increase engagement at your booth. Plus, it's a great way to build relationships with other businesses in your industry.
10. Have Incredible and Unique Booth Designs
Your booth designs play a significant role in engagement. For example, if your booth is bland or uninviting, people will be less likely to stop by.
But you'll turn some heads if your booth is creative and unique. So make sure your booth design is on point!
Ideas for Creative Booth Design
Do you wonder how to get your booth to stand out from the rest? There is tremendous competition for attention at industry events, so you'll need to get creative with your booth design. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Use bright colors and eye-catching graphics
- Create a theme for your booth that ties in with your brand
- Use props and interactive elements to engage visitors
- Make sure your booth is well-lit and inviting
You'll be sure to increase engagement at your next industry event by having an incredible booth design. So get creative and make your booth stand out from the rest!
Implement These Engagement Strategies at Your Next Industry Event
Consider implementing some of these engagement strategies if you're looking for ways to increase engagement at your next industry event. From offering healthy food options to having a unique booth design, there are plenty of ways to get people interested in your brand. So get out there and start engaging!
And if you need help, our team of ambassadors, talent models, and tradeshow hosts are always here to assist with brand activation strategies and event staffing. Contact us today to learn more!