After a long day on the trade show floor, you’ve likely spoken to hundreds of people, shared countless smiles, and laughed at more jokes than you can count. It’s now 4 PM, and the lights are beginning to dim. Finally, it’s time to go home. If you’re confident that everyone you wanted to connect with has visited your booth and will remember you after they leave, congratulations! But let’s add a little insurance to ensure your company remains top-of-mind.
The Power of the Last Hour
Consider extending your efforts for just one more hour to solidify your presence with all those important contacts. Here’s a foolproof way to make a lasting impression: once the lights go off, have them turned back on over your exhibit space and host a small end-of-day party. Order an hour of cocktails, beer, wine, and a few appetizers to create a memorable closing event. This strategy is cost-effective and can be surprisingly impactful.
Pre-Show Invitations and Personal Reminders
Before the event, send out invitations to key contacts, and have your sales team remind attendees throughout the day about your end-of-show gathering. Position it as the perfect stop before they head to the shuttle bus or wrap up their day. This not only ensures they remember your booth but also makes them feel valued and appreciated.
Gathering Valuable Contacts
To manage costs and keep the event exclusive, provide two drink tickets to each attendee who signs up or leaves a business card. This way, you gather valuable contact information while maintaining a friendly and professional atmosphere. Plus, offering drinks and snacks makes your booth the most attractive place to be as the show winds down.
Cost-Effective and Impactful
This approach is much more budget-friendly than hosting expensive dinners or purchasing show tickets. Food and drink services can help you determine exactly what you need, ensuring you stay within budget while appearing generous and engaging on the trade show floor.
Why It Works
This strategy works because it capitalizes on the natural winding down of the day. Attendees are more relaxed and open to casual conversations, making it easier for you to reinforce your brand message and build stronger connections. Plus, the novelty of an after-hours gathering in the midst of a busy trade show can leave a lasting impression.
Give It a Try
Forget the five-course dinners and pricey show tickets. This simple yet effective tactic can make a significant difference in how attendees remember your company. Trust me, it works! By creating a final, memorable experience, you ensure that your company remains at the forefront of their minds long after the trade show ends.
So, the next time you find yourself at a trade show, remember to use the power of the last hour to engage, impress, and leave a lasting mark on your attendees. Your extra effort will pay off in the form of stronger connections and better business opportunities.
