Take Advantage of Virtual Trade Shows

RCS Influencer Michelle Boykin says that in this current virtual environment, it is even more important to be intentional and strategic in your planning. 

A good strategy is always necessary for trade shows.  Here are few tips and tricks to make the most out of these virtual trade shows and events.   

First, pretend you are in person at the trade show.  Put a sign up on your office door, turn your cell phone off, set an out of office reply on your email, and remove all distractions.  If you were able to leave the office and travel to a trade show, you can “leave the office” during the trade show online.  We all can find reasons to be busy, so you must be intentional with your time.  I have personally found luck with placing a sign on my desk that says “in a meeting” so everyone knows to reach out via email or slack that I can respond to when I’m available. 

Second, invite people from your company that wouldn’t normally be able to attend in person.  You are saving money with the lack of travel, so take advantage of virtual courses and trainings for those employees and colleagues that would normally not attend the trade shows.  What certifications can they get online (and probably at a discount!) during the trade show?  What classes could help them with their job function, or help them get on track for a future promotion?  Let them look at the courses offered and choose.  You may be surprised at what they learn and ways they can help your business.  

Third, remember to network! Just because you aren’t having the in-person meetings in the same way you have in the past doesn’t mean you should skip networking opportunities.  See if the trade show is offering virtual meet and greets that you can attend.  If not, set up your own!  Is there someone in the industry you have always wanted to meet?  Reach out to them and ask for a virtual coffee or cocktail hour.  Do you normally have dinner with friends you have met over the years?  Set up a zoom dinner with them.  Be proactive and make this a priority.  

No matter what you do in this current environment, be open minded to new ways of learning and attending trade shows and conferences.  The point is to have fun, learn something new and connect with one another.    

Michelle Boykin is the COO and Integrator of Rackley Roofing Company, Inc. See her full bio here.