A few months ago, I attended an arts and crafts festival. Usually not something I'd attend. But, my lady has been mentioning the event, non-stop, over the last two days. So we went!
Three hours later, I walked out with 3-5 easy to implement ideas. Even better, the event's attendees validated the ideas. My question to you:
"How much time do you spend looking at other events for proven ideas and strategies?"
Borrowing ideas from other events is one of the quickest ways to add dollar signs to your event revenue.
If you don't spend much time looking outside your own event looking for marketing ideas, you need to start today.
One giant (self-imposed) roadblock that most people have to overcome is the "that will never work at our event" mindset. How many times have you heard business people lament the "that won't work, my business is different" line? Too many event planners and organizers fall into that same trap.
It's like a broken record ... "That won't work because my event is different." That's an excuse and a bunch of BS!
Proven marketing ideas can be adapted and modified from one industry to another. In some cases adopting ideas can be unbelievably easy. Because someone else figured it out and implemented the idea!
Over the years, I've attended countless events. Most of the events are outside my area expertise. And that's a good thing!
A straightforward strategy I picked up at an event put $500,000.00+ into the event organizer's bank account, months before a single person attended the event.
Discovering the $500K+ strategy took all of sixty seconds with a few quick questions to the right person. Even better, there is no reason why you can't do the same!
Make it a point to venture out and attend other events in and around your area. Especially events you usually wouldn't attended. Push your comfort zone!
When at other events be on the lookout for things that you might be able to integrate into your own event. The more perspicacious you are, the more you'll be able to take away. Find out who's in charge of the event . . . are they on-site? Most important of all - don't be afraid to ask smart questions.
Don't be afraid to ask organizers questions. Keep it short and sweet. Always remember to use a little couth… If an organizer is crazy busy at their event, you might need to follow up afterward.
Follow up with them a week or so after their event. It's important to remember that you don't always need to speak to the actual organizer to get useful information or ideas.
Several event insights over the years have come from event volunteers and later verified with the event organizers.
One important point to remember… You're going to need to do your homework and dig into details. It isn't wise to take everything at face value. If something sounds too good to be true, do a little research to validate what you observe. Why should you do this?
Because even event organizers have egos that need to be stroked. It's human nature. As a result, organizers might exaggerate their numbers or specific claims. Remember, you don't want to integrate a strategy into your own event that has been proven NOT to work. As has been said, "trust, yet verify!"
Next time you go out to another event, bring your thinking cap, a small notebook (plus pen) and an insatiable curiosity. Look for things that you can integrate and ethically borrow.
Never dismiss another event's promotion idea(s) as irrelevant or stupid until you've dug into the details. Chances are you'll be shocked by the details, and often pleasantly surprised.
Get more event ideas, advice, and strategies here: