Every event you plan comes with its own set of challenges. Some corporate events have the additional expectation of making a profit.
Let’s take a trade show, for example. Your main objective when producing one can vary.
Maybe you want to use it to generate leads. Perhaps you want to build client relationships or position your company as a leader in your industry.
Whatever the main objective, usually wanting to turn a profit will fall somewhere on that list.
To make money on a trade show, an emphasis has to be put on selling to your customers. In this case, you have three: exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees.
Here are three tips to help you yield more profits with each of your three customers:
Exhibitors:
- Have a multi-level pricing structure so potential exhibitors can choose an option that is the best fit for them. It should have a variety of options to fit different budgets to give you the best chance of getting all those booths filled.
- When you speak to potential exhibitors, present your event theme, floor plan, and overall setup. Show what is included in the various packages and how they can benefit from a higher priced package in terms of booth size or pre-show marketing, for example.
- Be sure the exhibitors you accept are a good fit for your show. You do the exhibitor a disservice when you sell to them knowing that it will most likely not be a lucrative event for them. Not to mention, you are not doing your attendees any favors when they are expecting great value for their money. Include exhibitors who are a match with your vision so everybody gets the most for their money.
Sponsors:
- Determine what would be a benefit for a potential sponsor by asking, “What is it they will gain by sponsoring this trade show?” The key is to offer exclusivity which is a high commodity when it comes to sponsorship. Some offerings for your sponsorship package that may entice them to say yes can include prime booth positioning, premium signage placement and perhaps promotion from the stage.
- Focus on making this a relationship where there is mutual benefit and a win-win for everyone. If you approach the sponsorship as a relationship where you are building trust, you can create a long-term partnership for years to come.
- As they say, the money is in the follow-up. Follow up with your sponsors after each meeting and the event itself so you can make a better experience for your sponsors at your next trade show.
Attendees:
- Add elements to your show that will draw in people to increase attendance numbers and keep them at the event longer, but be sure to choose the right entertainment that suits your event. Some ideas are well-known entertainers, authors to do a book signing, or a draw for a coveted prize.
- Take an honest look at the value your trade show provides and price your tickets accordingly.
- Are there any competing local events at the time of your show that will interfere with your projected attendance?
Keep in mind, to create a successful trade show you must make everyone happy – your sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees.
Success – and profits – will not come at the satisfaction of one group over another.
As with all events, that success comes down to solid planning and a winning strategy which will benefit everyone in the end.