OFF-MUTE 🔈
✨ Events are still one of the best ways to generate awareness and demand.
💛 We’re helping lots of clients ease back into them post-pandemic.
🗓️ SXSW just wrapped up and now HIMSS and RSA are on the horizon. Some companies are even considering bringing back IRL user events to build and nurture their communities.
📣 If you have big event aspirations this year, follow this smart advice from our Vice President Jessica Bettencourt:
☑️ Decide your marketing moment. Are you announcing or launching something? Is it newsworthy enough to stand out among the noise? Remember, timing is everything. Unless your company news is relevant to today’s headlines, then it’s probably best to release any announcements you have planned either before or after a large industry conference and instead, use your presence at the show for relationship-building.
☑️ Spread the word. Hosting, sponsoring or simply attending a conference is an investment…make it worthwhile! Start your communications at least 60 days in advance. Post your plans on social media, include them in your newsletter or mention them during a podcast interview. There are lots of ways to create buzz and engagement before the event happens.
☑️ Prepare your spokespeople. It’s been a while! Build in time to refine your company narrative and dust off those interview skills. Reporter drop-ins can (and do!) happen unannounced. Pro tip: prep a few spokespeople so you have options in case of any last minute conflicts.
☑️ Keep your eyes and ears open during the event. There might be a news development that could be a conversation among customers, partners or media while you’re there. Listen (and learn about) the key topics being discussed – you can capitalize on these trends and use them to fuel your future storytelling and content creating efforts this year.
☑️ Have a backup plan. IRL events always bring unexpected issues, especially now. The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, a Covid outbreak or another crisis could ruin your event or presence at one. If you’re running the show, it’s still a good idea to include virtual elements in case attendance disappoints.
