I’ve managed live events from 5 to 800 attendees over the past 5 years, and in that time I’ve seen some really whacky (and tacky!!) things done. But I’ve seen some genius things too! Coming to an event well prepared and with the proper etiquette sets you up for success. You’ll leave the one with the most opportunities, the most clarity and having had the most fun! See some of my favorite tips below. And if you are joining us in Atlanta for Build Your Speaking Biz Bootcamp, you MUST read this!
DON’T
- Bring your sales order forms and flyers. Not only does it just make you look tacky and desperate, but it undermines the amazing sponsors that have PAID for the privilege to sell and distribute materials at the event.
- Complain about the cold room and loud music. The room will be cold, the music will be loud. Why? The comfort of the people running the event is important too. They are there to support you in your growth both on and off stage and that requires a lot of movement and if they are on stage, it’s under a lot of hot, expensive light bulbs. Bring a sweater or pashmina. The music is loud because although we warned you we would be herding you into the room at the start of the session and pump the music to remind you it’s time to move, you still insist on chatting with your neighbor in the hall like a stone statue. Help us help you! You hear the loud cue song, get moving and encourage your friend to the do the same – it keeps the show on time and the music decibels lower. ;)
- Make unreasonable requests of the event staff.I have heard some DOOZIES over the years. The event staff has been there a week before you and probably pulled at least one all nighter to make sure every detail was perfect for you. Don’t ask event staff to get you coffee when you arrived 5 minutes after the session already started and it’s gone. Don’t ask for a special dessert because you don’t likethe options provided. Don’t ask for materials to be printed for you. Come prepared! And thank the people that have put in the long hours to make your experience so rewarding.
- Wear a costume. Seriously. Headdresses, strange robes, wearing your brand head to toe… I know you probably thought “this way people will notice me!” Well, they do. But not for the right reasons. They notice you and are literally thinking “why is that person so crazy?”. That’s not a money making strategy.
- Think you can be present and do everything you normally do in your business too. You are there to learn. Don’t try to do client calls, conference calls and send out proposals during the event. You will spread yourself too thin and not fully commit yourself to any of it and end up exhausted. Go hard before the event to get ahead and stay focused and present during the event to make the most of it.
DO
- Set a goal and know your purpose there beyond learning. How many people do you want to connect with? Are you looking for JV partners? Great – how many? Be specific with what you want to accomplish.
- Bring your business cards and a sharpie. You want to give out your card to great connections, but more importantly you want to collect the biz cards of others to follow up! The sharpie will let you write a reminder note to yourself on the back of their card even if it has a glossy coat. You want to remember something specific you talked about to reference when you reach out. If they shared their kid moved into college – note it and ask about it in your follow up.
- Plan time in your calendar the week post-event for follow up. Don’t let weeks slip by and you don’t reach out! You could miss the opportunity for a potential client or affiliate partner!
- Ask questions at the mic.You came to learn and grow your business right? Don’t be a passive participant in your own growth. The help is being offered, you could literally get the $10,000 answer you’ve been looking for, if you step up.
- Upgrade to VIP, if available. VIP upgrades not only make your life so much more simple by providing early access to rooms, designated seating and provided lunches, it can also provide more opportunity! Incredible networking gets done among VIPs and therefore a lot of money is made!
Ok, I know I said 10, but I can’t stop there! 6. Take advantage of coaching opportunities and sponsor resources available. Many events (including all of Suzanne Evans events!) have a coaching area with 6-figure coaches ready to give you support on the next steps for your business. Take advantage of these experts! There are also often incredibly valuable sponsor resources available from copywriters, web developers, health experts, and mindset coaches. Talk to them! Get on their list! Learn about what they do! Even if they aren’t a fit for you – nobody every died from having a conversation. ;)
There is no way to leave an event without all the tools and resources you need to grow your business unless you simply didn’t explore them. We can’t wait to see you at Build Your Speaking Biz Bootcamp. I hope to see you in the coaching zone with me and my fellow coaches, networking with our sponsors and showing up in each and every session to make the most of the experience!
Amanda Evans, Director of Client Relations