How to get value from taking part in an industry conference

Conferences are a useful element for you to include in your Marketing Plan.  You might be concerned that it is costly in time and money to take part in conferences. However, I want to show you how to get value from taking part in a conference. You will find out why you should include going to an industry conference in your Plan as a tactic in Promotions.

Meanwhile, you can refresh your knowledge of the Marketing P, Promotions, here.

Therefore, I have chosen to illustrate today’s topic with pigeons because that species has flourished in Britain thanks to its ability to take advantage of living in a flock. In business, a flock is a conference.

Recently, I have enjoyed taking part in two conferences in my specialist sector of neurology.

4 tips to show you how to get value from taking part in a conference

1. Content:

Most importantly your participation gives you plenty of opportunity to create content for your social media feeds. Make sure that you amplify the reach of your posts by using the event’s hashtag.

2. Reputation Management/PR:

Your participation can help to position you as a thought-leader, or spokesperson in your sector. It is likely to give you access to high resolution official photos and video coverage on YouTube.

3.Peer networking:

Your reputation can be enhanced more by the connections that you can make with your fellow panellists or attendees. I was thrilled to make links with a high-level contact Hassan Chaudhury at HETT 21. Hassan works for the Department of International Trade. I will maintain this connection in case any other clients develop international ambitions. 

4. The lag-effect:

You can continue to get value from taking part in a conference long after the event is over. This can happen by:

  • developing relationships on social platforms
  • writing a blogpost or an article about your experience in the trade press
  • using the footage to support award entries

I hope that you’ll find that these tips will help you to justify the time, effort and cost, so that you get value from taking part in a conference. I recommend that it will be a useful investment of your time. Conferences are an important channel of communication to include in your Marketing Plan. These tips will help you to get value from taking part in conferences.


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