| Online communities are a growing trend for marketing | | | | the client. |
| throughout the country. Buyers are constantly | | | | Event Marketing |
| bombarded with invitations through advertising to | | | | Another way that social media and trade show |
| follow on Twitter or Facebook. However, businesses | | | | booths interact is through event marketing. Posting |
| close more deals in trade show booths than they do | | | | the next location the business will be exhibiting is |
| in the social media environment. Buyers want to | | | | event marketing in its basic form. However, |
| know the people behind the products and services | | | | successful exhibits go a step beyond by using all |
| they purchase. Successful businesses integrate online | | | | media tools to promote the exhibition. Viral campaigns |
| communities into their exhibition marketing campaign. | | | | create a lot of buzz about a new product, videos |
| Here are three ideas for adding value through online | | | | give a sneak peak at what to expect and special |
| communities. | | | | prizes for online followers attracts attention as well. |
| Build Client Relationships | | | | An undervalued way of event marketing through |
| The most important aspect for a business is building | | | | online communities is Facebook Ads. Businesses can |
| client relationships. This is done by connecting with | | | | only reach so many within their networks. Theses |
| past and current clients, and developing a platform | | | | ads target a particular segment based upon |
| for new clients. Some visitors to trade show displays | | | | preferences and location. Developing effective click |
| have never connected with the businesses before. | | | | ads could drive increased interest in connecting at |
| On the exhibition floor, the staff has a few minutes | | | | trade show displays. |
| to spend with each potential client. In that time, they | | | | Drive Traffic To The Booth |
| must introduce the product, get the lead or even | | | | Social media can also be used to drive traffic to |
| close the sale. Connecting with the client on a | | | | trade show booths. One way this is accomplished is |
| community platform could provide a more personal | | | | through giveaways connected to web communities. |
| touch than a follow-up email after an exhibition. In | | | | At an event, encourage each visitor to follow on the |
| this case, the exhibition is a spark for building a | | | | community network and watch for free giveaways |
| long-term relationship with the attendee via an online | | | | during the exhibition. Announce giveaways, product |
| community. | | | | information and special offers to drive traffic back to |
| Others connect with past and current clients through | | | | the booth. |
| a social network. They invite them to visit the booth | | | | Driving traffic is only half the battle. Looking like an |
| to reconnect. This avenue of promotion uses the | | | | industry leader is vital as well. A trade show booth |
| online network to spark client interaction at the | | | | expert can help get the most value out of an |
| booth. The staff can then learn about their current | | | | exhibition. |
| needs, and build an even stronger relationship with | | | | |