Trade Events Still Matter! Here's How to Use Them to Expand Your Business Exposure
HOW TO MAKE YOUR IN-PERSON EVENTS COUNT
Business owners often ask themselves, "Are trade events still important?" The answer is a resounding "yes!" These trade events provide an opportunity to network with other businesses in your industry, expand your business exposure, and grow your customer base. Trade events offer a platform to promote your product or service to potential customers who may have little or no knowledge of what you do. If you're looking for ways to take your business to the next level, participating in trade events is a great way to do it!
How to find the right trade event for your business
Finding the right trade event - such as a real estate and mortgage networking event - to attend can be a daunting task. There are so many networking events, business conferences, and trade shows to choose from. How do you know which one will be the best use of your time and resources?
Here are a few tips:
Define your goals. What do you hope to accomplish by attending a trade event? Are you looking to make new connections, grow your customer base, or learn about new industry trends? Once you know what you want to get out of the experience, you can start narrowing down your options.
Do your research. Not all events are created equal. Some may be better suited for certain industries or business types like those focused on networking events. Once you've identified a few potential options, take some time to research each one. Read reviews, check out the speaker lineup, and see if there are any real estate and mortgage networking opportunities available.
Will they provide additional opportunities for professional career development training? Those that can introduce you to new concepts that stretch your knowledge to new heights should be given more weight. So look for those that provide insight into the future of real estate or obtain a home economic forecast.
Consider your budget. Trade events can be expensive, so you'll need to factor in the cost of registration, travel, and accommodations when making your decision. If you're on a tight budget, look for events that offer early bird pricing or discounts for members or groups.
How to make the most of your time at a trade event
There are a few things you can do to make the most of your time at a realtor and mortgage networking event. First, be sure to network! Talk to as many people as you can and exchange business cards. This is a great way to promote your product or service and grow your customer base. Second, take advantage of any marketing opportunities that are available. Many trade events offer booth space where you can promote your business. Be sure to take advantage of this opportunity! Third, follow up with the contacts you made at the event. Send them an email or give them a call and let them know you enjoyed meeting them. This is a great way to grow your business relationships.
Tips for preparing for a trade event
Research the event and make a list of the businesses you want to meet. This will help you maximize your networking opportunities.
Practice your elevator pitch. You'll need to be able to explain what your business does in a concise and exciting way.
Create marketing materials. This could include business cards, flyers, or brochures. Be sure to include information about your product or service and how to contact you.
Pack any supplies you'll need. This could include a laptop, chargers, networking devices, and any mnemonic devices (i.e. SWAG) to keep your business top of mind after you meet someone. By preparing in advance, you can make the most of your time at the trade event.
After the event – what’s next?
After the event, be sure to follow up with the contacts you made. Send them an email or give them a call and let them know you enjoyed meeting them. A great icebreaker is to ask them how they are enjoying the SWAG you left them with!
Internally, you should also take some time to reflect on the event. What went well? What could have gone better? How can you improve next time? And then provide that advice and ratings in any post event surveys from the Event. By reflecting on your experience and making sure the event holders are aware of your thoughts, you can make sure that you get the most out of future trade events.
NAMMBA Events
NAMMBA holds several events throughout the year positioned to make sure you:
Come face-to-face with your peers,
See industry big shots in-person,
Hear from industry Thought Leaders,
Get ahead of the latest trends, and
Develop new strategies and tactics.
All of this helps you make the connections necessary to grow your career, your business, and keep you on the cusp of what's new in the home lending and finance sector.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start networking! Your business will thank you for it. Visit our CONNECT page to find an in-person event near you!