Maximizing ROI at Trade Show Conferences in 2023: Tips and Best Practices

Trade show conferences are a great way for businesses to network, showcase their products or services, and potentially generate new leads and sales. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which shows are worth the investment and how to get the most return on investment (ROI) from attending.

One thing that we recommend here at UCS Advisors to prepare for a trade show conference is reaching out to presenters ahead of time. This can be especially useful if you are interested in a specific topic or speaker, as you can schedule a meeting or chat with them beforehand to learn more about their expertise and potentially establish a connection. This is a great opportunity to ask questions or get insights that can help you tailor your marketing strategy for the show.

Scheduling meetings with prospects and clients ahead of time is another important step in preparing for a trade show conference. By setting up a schedule beforehand, you can ensure that you make the most of your time at the show and have the opportunity to connect with key individuals in your industry. This is a wonderful opportunity to schedule follow-up meetings after the show to further discuss potential collaborations or partnerships.

In addition to reaching out to presenters and scheduling meetings, it is also essential to have a marketing strategy in place for the show. This should include a plan for leading up to the show, during the show, and after the show. Leading up to the show, you should consider promoting your attendance on your website and social media channels, as well as sending out emails to your list of contacts to let them know you will be there. You should also consider creating promotional materials such as shirts, QR Codes, one-sheets, stickers, pins, or business cards to hand out to attendees. 

BONUS TIP – consider co-sponsoring an after-hours networking event/party. You’ll have the opportunity to personally invite people you meet, plus you’ll get access to a list of event attendees. It is an amazing branding opportunity and a way to meet more people. 

Another great way to get the most ROI from attending a trade show conference is by applying to be a speaker. This is an amazing opportunity to establish personal branding awareness and establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry. It will help you attract more attention to your business, as attendees will be interested in learning more about your products or services.

To apply to be a speaker at a trade show conference, you will need to follow the guidelines set by the conference organizers. 

This typically involves submitting a proposal outlining your topic, expertise, and why you are a good fit for the conference. You may also need to include a resume or CV, as well as any relevant samples of your work.

If you are selected to be a speaker, you will typically be responsible for preparing a presentation or workshop that is informative and engaging for attendees. You may also be required to participate in Q&A sessions or other interactive activities.

BONUS TIP – BE SURE TO HAVE AN UPDATED HEADSHOT!

After the show, it is essential to follow up with any leads or connections you made at the conference. This includes sending emails or making phone calls to schedule further meetings or discussions, or simply sending a thank you note to those who visited your booth. Consider analyzing the ROI of the show by tracking any sales or leads generated as a result of your attendance.  

At UCS ADVISORS we recommend waiting 3-5 days after the show to reach out since the show just ended and most folks need time to get caught up when they get back. 

Preparing to get the most ROI from a trade show conference involves reaching out to presenters ahead of time, scheduling meetings with prospects and clients, and creating a marketing strategy leading up to, during, and after the show. 

By following these best practices, you can ensure that you make the most of your time and resources at the conference and generate meaningful results for your business.

If you need help creating an effective networking strategy or help to take your networking skills to the next level, set up a FREE consultation with UCS Adviors today.