Boost Your Contacts: Creative Ideas for Networking at Expos and Shows

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores various strategies for networking at expos and shows, particularly for new Pampered Chef consultants looking to expand their contacts. Participants share their thoughts on the feasibility of attending an expo, the costs involved, and alternative methods for engaging potential customers.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Opinion-based
  • Anecdotal

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a new consultant, expresses concern about the high cost of a booth at an expo and considers alternative ways to network, such as walking around and distributing items.
  • Another participant raises a concern about the appropriateness of distributing materials without a booth, suggesting it could upset other vendors and expo management.
  • One participant shares their experience of collaborating with other consultants in their cluster to share booth costs and responsibilities, allowing for a more manageable investment.
  • Another participant mentions the limitation of a one-night event, suggesting they might forgo wearing an apron and instead bring catalogs and business cards.
  • A participant emphasizes caution regarding handing out materials without a booth, recommending to engage with attendees in a more subtle manner, such as wearing branded clothing and offering recipes instead.
  • One participant recounts a successful experience of distributing recipes at a similar event, noting that it led to some show leads without any issues from event management.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the appropriateness of networking without a booth, with some participants cautioning against it while others share positive personal experiences of doing so.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects the experiences and concerns of new consultants navigating networking opportunities in the context of expos and shows, highlighting the balance between cost and potential benefits.

Who May Find This Useful

New Pampered Chef consultants exploring creative networking strategies at events may find the shared experiences and suggestions relevant to their own situations.

C
Chef_Taniesa
Messages
11
Hi all

Im a brand new consultant of two weeks ( I get my kit tomorow YAY) anyway I have been thinking of ways to get more contacts, one idea i had was going to this expo cooking show that they are having simi localy.... but the booth is $425 and I just dont think i should invest that much money being so new, plus im not sure if it would be profitable or that i would get many contacts. So I was thinking... What if I walked around the expo/food show and passed out something? its going to be in november so something festive that has my information on it? How could i get contacts? I thought i could walk around with my pampered chef apron on but is that too cheesy? How could i get people to give me their information or even get someone who would want to host a show? any ideas?

Thanks!
Taniesa
 
hmm...My only concern would be... if you were to walk around the expo passing items out and wearing the PC apron, would that be okay with the expo officials/management? I mean, most people are paying the booth price for the opportunity to be there advertising so if you do it for free there may be a problem. I would check on that before doing anything.
 
What if you got some other consultants in your cluster to work the booth as well. That's what we do in my cluster. Our director figures up how much of the booth fee you would be responsible for if you worked say a 2 hour shift. Then she send out a sign-up list for everyone in the cluster to have a chance to pick a shift, or 2 shifts if they are interested. Whatever contacts you make during your shift are yours.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
I wish i could do thatI cant really split up the cost of the booth because the event is only one evening from 6:30 till 9.... there isnt a pampered chef rep booked at the expo. Maybe Ill forgo wearing my apron and just bring a bag with catalogs and my business card...
 
You really need to be careful!!! By walking around and handing out catalogs and your business cards without having booth space may upset the other vendors and even the Expo Directors/Mgmt . You don't want to start your business out on bad note. Going to the expo and seeing what all is there and wearing a PC shirt does not hurt anyone. If someone does ask you then by all means let them know you are a Consultant (30 second commercial) but I would not go just to hand out catalogs without having a booth. It is a great idea to booths and expos so maybe you could reserve a booth for next year and forego this year. $425 is a lot of money to part with, especially when you are just starting out. If you do not want to split the booth with anyone else on your TEAM then I would recommend going back to your "list of 100" and starting there for contacts.
Good luck!

Kim Murdock
Future Director
 
It's in how you do it.I've done something like that before. The booth would've cost $500 for one evening just like yours. My new recruit and I printed up recipes and stamped out info on the other side and walked around the event. It was at Christmas time and I wore a PC santa hat with a red PC shirt. I just asked people if they wanted a free recipe. Some people took the card and kept on walking. Some I was able to engage. I got a few show leads through it. No one from management approached me.

Actually the organizer of the event had a Jan show for me the following month.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective ways to attract attention at expos and shows?

To attract attention at expos and shows, consider using eye-catching displays, interactive demonstrations, and engaging signage. Offering samples of your products can also draw in potential customers. Additionally, wearing branded apparel and utilizing social media to promote your presence can help increase visibility.

How can I effectively network with other vendors at these events?

Networking with other vendors can be done by initiating conversations, sharing experiences, and exchanging contact information. Attend vendor meet-ups or social events associated with the expo to build relationships. Collaborating on promotions or giveaways can also create mutually beneficial partnerships.

What types of promotional materials should I bring to an expo?

Bring a variety of promotional materials, including business cards, brochures, flyers, and product samples. Consider creating a visually appealing banner or display that highlights your brand. Additionally, having a sign-up sheet for newsletters or giveaways can help you collect contact information for follow-up.

How can I follow up with contacts made at expos and shows?

Following up with contacts can be done through personalized emails or messages thanking them for visiting your booth. Include any relevant information discussed during your interaction and invite them to connect on social media. A timely follow-up, ideally within a week, can help reinforce your connection.

What role does social media play in networking at expos and shows?

Social media is a powerful tool for networking at expos and shows. Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to promote your attendance, share live updates, and engage with attendees. After the event, you can connect with new contacts online, share photos, and continue the conversation, enhancing your networking efforts.

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