Quote:
Originally Posted by iamkathi
After 11 years in this industry and going to trade shows, webmaster forums and gatherings, I am certainly no expert.
But, this is how I have decided a show/gathering is worth my ( am my employers) time and money.
#1- Is this a show where I will do business? ROI... The buzz word of many a marketing meeting.
#2- Is this a show where some one I REALLY want to do business with will be attending?
#3-Can I afford the time to be out of the office and away from work or home for the the 3, 4 or 5 days of the show?
and finally #4 Can I afford NOT to go?
Like you,( in the beginning) I looked on some of the events as a "mini-vacation" sponsored by my employers. A chance to catch up with friends in the industry or visit a location I had never been to. Now, I look at each event/show as an opportunity to meet someone I have never met or get to know someone I only knew casually, better.
So as a "humble affiliate" what my first step would be is to contact the program owners you are working with and see if they will be attending. Make appointments to at least sit and chat. Nothing huge or time consuming. You will be surprised how many program owners want the feed back from affiliates. Next, is there a program you have heard about but were not sure about? Take the time to see if they are going to attend.
Finally, Have a great time and keep an open mind.
oh... and take more business cards than you ever think you'll need.
Just my ideas. There are lots of people here with more experience than I have!
Others? What are your thoughts?
P.S. If there is someone at the show you want to meet... let me know. I am great at introducing people.
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Fantastic stuff here, just what I was looking for! Can't wait to see you again, the "Blue Willow" seems like such a long time ago.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Toby
Since I qualify as a "humble affiliate webmaster" I'll add my 2¢.
As Kathi noted, you need to do some networking in advance. Find out if the sponsors you want to talk to will have reps there, and how to get in contact with them once you arrive.
Most of my top sponsors are independent amateurs that rarely go to shows these days, so my list of sponsors to talk with is usually pretty short. I focus more on making contacts with specific people. Getting to meet with those you've previously only met online tends to reinforce the trust factor and often leads to doing far more business with them in the future.
The other way to meet people is to find the place where everyone tends to 'hang' (usually somewhere that alcohol is served) and just join in and see who drops by.
*This one is a FFN favorite.
Lastly, don't even try to evaluate your ROI for at least 3 to 6 months after the show. Let the seeds you planted have some time to germinate.
No more legal or traffic seminars? How will those panel speakers pitch their services? LOL
Darci is a character, enjoyed meeting her in SF. Looking forward to Atlanta, should be a good time.
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Thanks Toby!
Thanks also to Tony 404, Jace and Gonzo for stepping in.