The primary purpose at these events is to introduce new products and ideas,
whether to facilitate sales and marketing or for research purposes.
Some common objectives are:
To generate a sales and media buzz around a specific company or industry
Conferences and
conventions are large by nature, but smaller, break-out meetings
add value for both the organizers and delegates. Design smaller events
within the convention/conference
to facilitate
networking and idea sharing between all parties (employees, sales
people, dealers, clients, service providers, etc.).
If a sales/supplier/clients conference
is being planned, consider asking some of the potential attendees
what would motivate them to come, and what were some of their more
positive and negative experiences at previous conferences
or conventions. These suggestions can be taken into consideration
as the nuts and bolts of the event are planned out.
Sample Email
Subject: John Doe from Syntech here, I would appreciate
your advice
Dear Ms. Smith
You are one of our more valued clients, so I hope
you will give me the benefit of your experience as I plan this year’s
Syntech conference. I would like to ensure that delegates have an
enjoyable and beneficial experience. Can you kindly provide me with
feedback regarding factors that have motivated you to attend a conference?
Ease of travel, exotic or fun location, expense, information sessions,
personal contact with others in the field, etc.? It would also be
very helpful if you could briefly let me know a couple of your favourite
and least favourite things from some of our industry’s past
events. I understand you are busy, so I appreciate your help.
Regards,
Adapt the text for dealers, sales staff, upper and mid-level management
or anyone else whose ideas might be helpful. Consider specifically
asking sales staff and dealers for types of events, give-aways, and
training that have upped sales for previous releases and see if it
is possible to incorporate them into the event.
