Today’s episode discusses ‘Strategies for Maximizing Your Time at Local Business Networking Events’. My expert guide today is John Reiser, who runs frequent local business events.
Motivation for John to the events industry: He started with community-based fundraising events that inspired him and his old friend to get into that space.
How his events differentiate from others– John denotes that his events are always highly original, with people benefitting greatly from networking. The biggest attraction for attendees of his local events is often the trade show of more than 70 exhibitioners. They are keynote events on various relevant business topics from leading industry professionals. Lastly, networking is significant because you get face-to-face interaction with major players from the business community.
How an attendee prepares for these events – John reckons that you should go in with a plan and know exactly what you are looking for. Also, take your time to have meaningful relationships with business professionals you will meet at the event and have your business card on hand.
Strategies for maximizing time at a local business event – Our guest advise that you should seek to show up and leave with various meaningful contacts that will benefit your business.
The best setup strategy for a vendor at a local business event – John reckons that the best strategy is to bring along some help, often in the form of one or two more people. These extra pairs will help you run things smoothly at your booth. Secondly, you should be ready to work your booth by engaging your audience in creative, differentiated ways. A friendly hook would serve as a great conversation starter. Thirdly, give an attendee a reason to choose you immediately, e.g., a special discount offer.
Tips for vendors and attendees to do follow-ups after the event – John underscores that you should follow up on a lead immediately to ensure you get all the potential business. It would be best if you nurtured those relationships through follow-ups. However, it would help if you had an eye for good leads because you often may end with many leads at an event that are not worth your time.
Finally, hear about John’s exciting choice of brand ambassador.
Time Stamps
-
(1:37) John’s journey to hosting local business events
-
(2:20) Motivation for John to the events industry
-
(3:40) How his events differentiate from others
-
(6:30) How an attendee prepares for these events
-
(8:09) Strategies for maximizing time at a local business event
-
(10:12) The best setup strategy for a vendor at a local business event
-
(15:38) Tips for vendors and attendees to do follow-ups after the event
-
(25:26) John’s choice for his brand ambassador
