If you want cheap and effective marketing to drum up interest in your next trade show event, don’t overlook the reach of social media. A few posts on Facebook or email blasts to current clients is the safe bet, though. In order to reach as many people as possible and generate new interest, you have to use multiple platforms and methods of digital outreach.

Here are a few tips for how to use social media to market your next trade show event.

Visual Social Media

Photos capture attention whereas text turns some away. Bright, unique visuals that pop will cause people to stop and take notice. Capitalize on social media sites like Instagram and Pinterest to post great product shots, sneak peeks, and other teasers of what you plan to feature at the trade show. Following a trade show, exhibitors and clients can continue to use these platforms to begin the interest cycle again for the next year.

Videos are another great way to engage with prospects. Upload short demos and presentations on YouTube to gauge reactions and comments. Vimeo is another platform with a lot of reach. It doesn’t have to be a time-consuming project, either. Brevity will work in your favor.

Hashtags

Never neglect your trade show calling card! Using hashtags on Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest can help you keep track of how your message spreads. Properly tracking and using hashtags has be proven to increase engagement among users. Choose a unique but appropriate title for your hashtag and you can easily follow conversation threads to see how it is being used and received. There are also great programs like the Sprout Social trends report that provides a full breakdown of the effectiveness of a particular hashtag.

In addition to promoting your trade show via a hashtag, consider using them to kick off a pre-show contest. Set up a photo or video contest using a hashtag across social media networks and watch users engage with each other as well as spread your message for you. Every contest entry provides you with more marketing exposure.

Interacting with Users

Marketing does not just mean posting several ads on Facebook. When people comment on a post, it is important to reply and start dialogues. Like a clever post by one of your followers or leave your own thoughtful comment on another user’s account. Engagement is a two-way street. The more you interact with users, the more personal the exchange becomes. Some of the biggest corporations have recently received excellent press for witty responses to Twitter users—having a good sense of humor can go a long way.

Blogging

Social media best thrives on easy to digest information bits; but not all users like quick snippets of information. Blogging still remains a powerful social media tool for longer form subject matter. When done properly, it also can create a strong base of followers who hunt for useful, industry-specific content. It can be just as, if not more engaging than Facebook and similar sites. Post informative articles of varying length regularly several months prior to a trade show event (as well as after the event). Steady and consistent posting will bring results.

So, when planning your next trade show budget, make sure to include some extra time and resources for marketing on social media. These simple, yet effective, social media marketing techniques will help increase traffic, and buzz, when attending your next event.

If you have need help with creating your next trade show display, don’t forget to contact Structure Exhibits. We will take care of all your trade show needs!

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