Keep Business Networking Over The Summer Period
To keep your company present at business networking events over the summer, it’s essential to adopt a strategic approach.
As the summer holidays fast approaches, tell that to the weather in the UK(!!!), it’s easy to get excited and start thinking of a lie-in and a couple of cheeky cocktails by the poolside.
But your business doesn’t get a holiday, it keeps rolling and working in your absence.
Hopefully…
We all know that a big part of any business, is your pipeline. And business networking can be one of the best resources for this
So, how do you keep your company present at business networking events over the summer period?
Start by planning ahead, creating a calendar of all relevant business networking events and ensuring your company is registered in advance. Securing speaking opportunities, booth spaces, or sponsorships can significantly enhance your visibility.
Engage actively on social media by announcing your participation in upcoming events, sharing your excitement and objectives. During the events, post live updates, photos, and videos using event hashtags to boost visibility. After the events, share key takeaways and thank attendees to continue the conversation online.
Prepare your marketing materials well in advance. Have plenty of business cards, brochures, and other promotional items ready to distribute. Branded giveaways can leave a lasting impression on attendees.
Networking strategically is crucial. Identify key individuals or companies you want to connect with and schedule meetings or informal gatherings. Have a concise and compelling elevator pitch ready to quickly communicate your company’s value proposition.
Consider hosting your own events to further your reach. Organise networking meetups or after-parties during major events to position your company as a leader. For those unable to attend in person, webinars or virtual networking sessions can maintain engagement.
Follow up diligently with new contacts made at events. Send personalised follow-up emails and connect with them on LinkedIn, mentioning where you met. Include event highlights and important announcements in your company newsletter to keep your audience informed.
Leverage content marketing by writing blog posts that summarise your experiences and key insights from each event. Create video recaps, interviews with industry figures, or behind-the-scenes footage. Developing case studies or success stories based on event discussions or presentations can also be effective.
Utilise event technology to enhance your networking efforts. Many events have dedicated apps or a dedicated Whatsapp group for attendee networking, so make sure to use these for setting up meetings and staying informed. Employ digital tools to capture leads effectively, such as scanning business cards or badges.
Incentivise participation by encouraging and rewarding your employees to attend and actively participate in events. Covering travel expenses, offering bonuses, or recognising top networkers can motivate your team. Additionally, involving key clients by inviting them to attend events with you and providing them with exclusive experiences can strengthen relationships.
Finally, measure the effectiveness of your networking efforts by tracking engagement through KPIs like new contacts made, follow-up meetings scheduled, or social media engagement. Collect feedback from your team and event participants to continuously improve your strategy.
By implementing these strategies, you can ensure your company remains visible and engaged at business networking events over the summer, leading to valuable connections and opportunities.
Join Simply Business Club now and discover the benefits of Face-to-Face and Online Business Networking Events for yourself.
Together, we can foster genuine connections, explore innovative opportunities, and propel your business to greater success.
Contact the team at Simply Business Club and start your business networking journey success with us today!