Knowing what attendees are looking for at expos is critical for pulling off successful events. If you can get it right, you can often pull in more business and get a better return on your original investment.
But, of course, the difficulty is actually knowing what attendees want. It’s not always 100% clear.
That’s where this post can help. It runs through some of the things that attendees want and how you can implement them at your next expo.
Relevant Content
Starting with the most obvious desire, your attendees want you to provide them with excellent content. You should aim to provide them with the most helpful and inspirational keynotes and panel discussions possible, so that they can walk away, feeling like they’ve learned something.
Attendees prefer sessions that are tailored to their industry or interests. They also want proactive insights and innovative ideas that they can take back with them (and potentially impress their bosses or investors).
Networking Opportunities
Guests also want you to provide them with networking opportunities at events. They want you to help them build meaningful connections with each other, including potential partners or clients.
Therefore, advertise the networking potential at the event before it goes live, making sure everyone knows the value of being there on the day. Then, arrange specific networking sessions during the day so people can talk to each other and discuss their needs.
Interactive Formats
You also want to ensure that you provide guests with interactive formats. You don’t want it to feel boring or dull.
Therefore, don’t be afraid to host live Q&A sessions. These give the audience a chance to interact with experts and ask their most burning questions.
Hands-on workshops are also highly recommended. These make learning more active, enabling attendees to take more useful knowledge and information away with them.
Great Food
You should also carefully consider the catering at your event. Feeding guests is often among the best ways to keep them happy, especially if your conference is going to go on all day. If guests can get the food they want, they will often feel much better.
It’s important to avoid skimping on this. While it might be tempting to go to a generic catering company, it’s not advisable in today’s competitive landscape. Ideally, you want a caterer who is going to deal with your requirements directly and ensure that everyone enjoys a fabulous meal.
Inspiration and Motivation
Inspiration and motivation are another two things that attendees want from events. These cater to their emotional requirements. If guests feel good at your conference, they are much more likely to take onboard your messaging.
Engaging Environment
Finally, guests want an engaging environment — something that stimulates their senses. Great coffee, comfortable seating and a decent Wi-Fi connection is essential.
Therefore, spend some time looking around for the right location or venue. Look for places that will meet your clients’ needs while also allowing you to give them a proper education. Small box rooms aren’t a good idea.
