Live events are one of the most powerful ways you can connect, network, AND flex your in person marketing skills. Conventions, workshops, and conferences are all great places to welcome new people to your list.
So let’s make the most of these face-to-face moments. Whether you’re an experienced speaker at events, an attendee trying to give your business presence on the go, or even in charge or running events yourself – these five tips are sure to help maximize opportunities that come with being out and about networking. Most importantly, growing that email list, baby.
Know Your Audience
Not all in person events are a great fit. There I said it. If you’re a speaker or attendee, you definitely want to make sure you’re in the right room.
Is your target audience attending?
Are the networking opportunities going to align with your mission and values?
These are important questions to have clarity on before you commit to any in-person event.
Once you’re crystal clear on who your target audience is it’s easier to know what events to attend so that you’re in the room with your perfect people. Think about it, in person marketing would be really challenging if you’re hanging out with the wrong audience. Like talking to a wall.
Speak Up
Listen, if you’re an event speaker or a featured expert on a particular subject or topic, this is your big chance! Find opportunities to get on the mic. Seek out conferences and communities that bring in guest speakers that make sense for your expertise, then reach out and pitch yourself.
Leading a room full of active listeners opens the door to build serious trust on stage. Just being “up there” gives you automatic cred.
And make THE MOST of it! Create a QR code in your presentation to an opt-in that fits the audience. Get those emails, friend!
No need to be shy, you’ve got valuable knowledge to share and people want more of it.
Don’t miss out on growing your following and staying in touch with those who want to hear from you. Remember, confidence is key and your email list is your ticket to building a community of loyal supporters. So go ahead, speak up and spread the word!
Network & Connect
Let’s be real – networking at events can be uber intimidating, especially for introverted entrepreneurs. But trust me, connecting with attendees and event coordinators is totally worth it.
If you’re the event organizer or even a speaker, don’t forget to make time to engage with your attendees! Yes, events are stressful, but it’s important to make genuine connections, so don’t forget to take breaks and go talk to people.
Attendees, listen up! Remember that everyone is there for the same reason – to connect! Take advantage of your time in the room and leave with a few meaningful conversations. Ask questions, exchange business cards, actively start following other attendees’ social media profiles, and be sure to follow up afterwards.
You never know how a single connection could change your life or business! So even if it’s hard for you to make the first move, don’t be afraid to reach out and build relationships with people in the room. You may just find yourself with new mentors, friends, and colleagues!
Promotional Swag
Sponsoring an item in the event’s swag bag is a great opportunity to get your brand in front of all the attendees. Get creative with the freebies you give out. Give them something they can use immediately throughout the event itself – journals, pens with a stylus, and tumblers work really well.
If you have digital products, make a well-designed postcard with a QR code to either get a discount or a freebie on your course, e-book, or webinar.
You want people to be excited about what they receive so they become lifelong fans.
Follow Up After the Event
It’s time to level up your event follow up game. Reach out to every person you connected with. Email them within 3 days, while you’re still fresh on their mind. Stay top of mind with your subscribers; stay top of mind with your in-person network.
Send a simple DM or email to say “Hey, it was so great to meet you at [event name]. There was so much good info to process, right?” Even better if you reference something specific you chatted about at the event. Some of the most amazing relationships I’ve built started at a live event.
All in all, making the most out of events to grow your email list doesn’t have to be difficult. Remember, don’t be shy. Folks are there to meet you as much as you’re there to meet them. Share your message, talk with other attendees, and keep in touch after the event.
If you’re hosting the event, follow up with thank-you notes or post-event surveys for extra points. It shows you appreciate people, and can give you valuable feedback for future events.
When you implement these five tips on how to grow your email list at in person events, you should see a healthy increase in sign-ups. And we’re all about that list growth, baby! Now get out there and make it happen!
