Conferences. Are they just a whirlwind of half hearted networking, average coffee, and questionable after-parties? Not for me! I see conferences as a goldmine – a chance to unearth valuable insights, capture educational moments, and ultimately, boost my sales.
Here's the thing: most people attend conferences, passively absorb information, and then…crickets. But the real magic happens after the event. It's about taking those nuggets of knowledge and weaving them into your sales strategy.
Here's how to turn conference chatter into client conversions:
1. The "Hot-off-the-Press" Pitch:
● Identify Key Takeaways: Jot down the most impactful trends, innovative solutions, and industry challenges discussed.
● Craft a Timely Narrative: Incorporate these insights into my outreach. For example, "At the recent [Conference Name], there was a lot of buzz around [hot topic]. It got me thinking about how [your company] could help businesses like yours navigate this…" Be as specific as possible about how the learnings from the conference can apply to your specific prospects environment.
● Establish Thought Leadership: Sharing these timely insights positions me as an expert and demonstrates that I'm invested in staying ahead of the curve.
2. Name Dropping Done Right:
● Strategic Networking: Make a point of connecting with influential speakers and industry leaders.
● Leverage Connections: In follow-up emails, you might say, "[Speaker Name] made a great point about [topic] at [Conference Name]. It resonated with me because…" This adds credibility and context to your outreach.
● Build Relationships: Conferences are a breeding ground for genuine connections. These relationships can translate into warm leads and referrals down the line.
3. Content is King (and Conferences are the Kingdom):
● Repurpose Content: Leverage conference presentations, workshops, and keynotes to create valuable content for my prospects. Think blog posts, social media updates, or even short videos summarizing key takeaways. Don’t be afraid to take selfies or quick videos in the hallways.
● Offer Exclusive Access: Sharing exclusive insights or resources from the conference adds value to my outreach and incentivizes prospects to engage.
4. The Follow-Up Frenzy:
● Strike While the Iron's Hot: Follow up with connections and leads immediately after the conference. The event is still fresh in their minds, making them more receptive to my message.
● Personalize Your Approach: Reference specific conversations or shared experiences to make your outreach more meaningful.
Conferences are an investment – of time, money, and energy. But by strategically leveraging the learnings and connections, I turn that investment into a sales bonanza. So, the next time you're at a conference, remember: don't just attend, capitalize!
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