This is a busy time of the year. I’m giving three presentations at three different conferences during this 10-day stretch! If you, like me, want to do more public speaking engagements and really make them count, then this guest post by Rachel Matthews is for you.
Speaking engagements do not end once you finish the presentation. You’re often expected to interact with the audience through a question and answer segment.
However, even ending after the Q&A stifles your real ability to connect with the audience.
The magic happens when you take the time to connect with each and every individual that has attended your presentation. Yes, it does mean you’ll spend a great deal of time on the floor but this is a prime opportunity to pitch your business and brand.
You already have them hooked from the presentation. They’ve already “voted” so to speak; they’re amenable to your message. Failing to go the extra mile now means you’re simply dropping the ball.
The following are some of the ways to leave a real lasting impression with your audience. The type of thought that imparts, “WOW, I need to talk with this person, otherwise I’m going to miss out on a valuable opportunity!”
Personalized Swag
Swag packs are quite common to find when wandering around big expos and conferences. These bags contain branded products from companies. They’re effective at marketing because it keeps a brand in the eyes of the individual.
For example, you’ll often find:
· Pens
· Mouse pads
· Stickers
· Shirts
· Hats
Another great item to consider using is a bag. People will wander the floor looking for freebies, which means that if they’re using your bag, everyone else gets to see your brand. It’s a simple but effective concept.
If this is something that you feel would be worthwhile, find personalized tote bags, specifically made of cotton canvas material. Why cotton canvas? Because they’re eco-friendly, durable and comfortable.
Highly-Specific Landing Pages
When you’re talking to individuals at conferences you’re going to want to mention three major things:
· Name
· Business
· Website
Yeah, you can hand over a business card, but a memorable domain name sticks.
And you can go one step further …
The use of landing pages is common for online marketing. They’re effective because they have a refined message, valuable offer, and a call-to-action. Landing pages are often employed to convert search engine and social media users into the sales funnel.
This process can be applied when you’re interacting with people on the floor.
Consider doing the following:
1. Purchase a memorable, short domain name (this could be yourname.com, too)
2. Use landing page design tools or templates to create this page and follow common best practices when developing the site.
3. Include a strong headline stating what visitors can expect, body copy that conveys the value of your services, and a contact form that encourages visitors to get in touch.
In essence, you will effectively drive individuals to an elevator pitch. This kind of action allows you to get the last word. You’ll also gain the benefit of weeding out low-quality connections. You’re left with passionate go-getters that want more from what you have to offer.
Make Them the Stars
Realize that these individuals paid money to attend the conference. They were there to see business minds and entrepreneurs–like you–share valuable information. They put you on a pedestal, in some fashion.
Turn the tables.
Make them the start by listening and providing feedback. Encourage their actions. Help them connect with other big members of the industry.
There are plenty of ways to flatter others in online business:
· Mention them in a post-conference wrap-up blog post
· Conduct an interview with them for your site (or theirs)
· Purchase something from their company and leave a review
Go the extra mile to be sincere. Make them the stars of the night.
You will leave an ever-lasting impression on them because you’re humble and provide value. You’re helping them get a leg-up in business but not just in a generic, meet-and-greet fashion. You’re showing passion for what they have to offer and they’re coming back at you with twice the amount.
Sarah Henderson works in human resources and works along side companies to carry out team building exercises, lately Sarah has also been dabbling in feedback for businesses.