Since so many in-person gatherings are being postponed or cancelled, many businesses may have found themselves looking for trade show alternatives. With products to share and customers to meet, organizations of every size are finding new opportunities to fill the void left by the lack of live events.
The good news is that there are multiple ways to connect with customers right now. Here are a few techniques and marketing promotional products that can help get you started.
Create a webinar
Have expertise on a topic that would interest potential customers? Want to do a presentation on the benefits of your newest product or service? Offering a webinar is a great way to capture their attention. It also helps build your brand with customers who are genuinely interested in what you have to offer. Increase attendance with a thank-you gift, like a webcam cover, for participants.
Write an article for publication
Have you recently solved a problem for a major customer? Or developed a product innovation you want to share? As a trade show alternative, consider creating a case study for your website or writing an article for a popular trade publication that shares the who, what, when, where, why and how of your accomplishments—and what they could mean for other potential clients.
Turn relationships into leads
While trade shows give you the opportunity to catch the eye of potential customers, asking your current clients for referrals can also put you in touch with new customers. Asking for referrals has other benefits as well:
- People referred by a friend are four times more likely to buy.
- B2B companies with referrals have a 70% higher conversion rate.
Remind customers of your referral program periodically via email or social media. And be sure to thank them by sending a thank-you note or a marketing promotional product, like a gift basket made with a cooler or picnic basket.
Create a virtual experience
If you can’t bring customers to an exhibit booth, consider bringing a booth to customers. Create a virtual experience that allows customers to see your product in action, get information and have questions answered in a truly memorable way.
Mail virtual reality glasses to customers as a fun way to promote the experience.
Thinking outside the floor
When you’re looking for trade show alternatives, you’ll quickly discover there many opportunities to help you find new sales leads. Good luck!