Networking at Expos

Expos are usually a free service to the public. It is a great place to go and meet a lot of people in one place. Health, pet, crime prevention or any other subject that you can think of that may benefit your community. When you go to an expo make sure to bring plenty of business cards. You will meet a large amount of people that you will want to give your card to as well as taking theirs so that you may do business together in the near future. I make an effort to shake hands, remember names and talk about how I can help them in their business. Remember they paid to have a table at the expo for a reason. Offer to partner with them in marketing by possibly listing their website as a helpful link on your website. I like to explain that I am a Community Manager and have access to a large audience that might be interested in hearing about their product or service. Ask if they would consider a lunch and learn at your community. In return you would give them fliers, brochures and cards to refer future residents to you. Let them know that you are excited about working together. Also don’t forget to mingle with the people visiting the expo. Maybe have lunch there so that you can have conversation with the visitors and you can always leave your cards on the tables. Once you have visited the exhibit tables and met plenty of people evaluate all of your business cards and brochures that you took with you. Put notes on them to remind yourself of what each person you met is interested in doing. Make sure to follow up. This is very important. Email each person and say thank you for taking the time to talk to me. Explain that you met them at XYZ Expo and ask when a good time would be to get together. This does not cost you any money it only takes effort so make contacts and enjoy yourself while doing so!