At E&E Exhibit Solutions we are experts in the field of design for your actual event; graphics, displays, interactive technology, signage, etc. However, before your attendees can experience our incredible corporate event offerings, they first have to know about your event and decide to attend.
Our marketing team has done a little research and found some valuable and creative ways to increase the attendance at your event.
Why is Attendance Critical?
That may seem like a silly question, but the more people you have attend your event, the more people will hear, understand and embrace your message. The more attendees, the more opportunity for shared learning, networking and business opportunities. Perhaps most important, the more attendees, the more opportunities for fundraising, in the case of a non-profit event.
However, increasing attendance isn't the only goal - increased awareness of your event, championing discussions around your event and creating viral buzz can be as important as the number of people who attend.
So how do you do that?
Think Creatively
1. Podcasting. Consider weekly podcasts that feature your corporate leaders, merchandising managers, operational managers or some of the featured event presenters. It is a great way to build the anticipation of your event in advance. Keep the momentum going during and after the event with impromptu interviews of attendees, snippets of presentations and follow up conversations.
Eventbrite says:
"A creative event promotion idea that people don't always think of is podcasting. An impressive 67 million Americans listen to podcasts every month. Launch your own podcast, with a theme that's relevant to your event. Or, for less effort, become a sponsor or guest speaker for an existing podcast that draws a similar target audience."
2. Invest in professional photography. While taking candid photos can be great for your company Facebook and Instagram accounts, you will want to make an investment in the photography that actually markets your event. Keep in mind, these images will be able to be re-purposed for future marketing efforts.
"Photographs set a vibe and answer event-goer's questions about your event's atmosphere.
Take well-lit photos
that appropriately capture the ambiance and illustrate what people can expect at your event. Photography is also crucial for making the other techniques on this list - from advertising to email - more effective."
3. Create event badges. This is part of a wider strategy that allows your attendees to help market your event before the event even begins. Anything you can create, like an event icon/badge or an event hashtag, that helps build a community prior to the event, will help spread the word.
