With all of the hard work that goes into meeting and event planning, you want to attract as many attendees as possible to share the experience. Using the expansive reach of social media can help you achieve your attendance goals and leave you well-positioned for future events. Read on for tips on how to harness this powerful tool before, during, and after your event.
Before
- Generate buzz for your event several months in advance. Create a hashtag that's simple and on brand for your company. Be sure to include it in all of your marketing materials leading up to your event.
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Generate buzz for your event several months in advance. Create a hashtag that's simple and on brand for your company. Be sure to include it in all of your marketing materials leading up to your event.
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Crowdsource ideas from your followers. Use social media to get their opinions on panels, topics, and speakers they'd like to see on the program. They may not all be doable, but it's a surefire tactic to engage your audience and make them feel invested in the planning process.
During
- Now it's time to see your hashtag in action! Include a photo booth or selfie station in your event set-up to encourage attendees to post photos (using your event hashtag, of course!).
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Facebook Live and Instagram Live are just two ways to sell your event in real time to people who are unable to attend. Make them eagerly anticipate registering for next year with a peek at what they're missing!
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Create a social media wall for your event. There are many tools out there (like Everwall and Eventifier) that search social media platforms for posts and tweets pertaining to your event. Display them on a screen so attendees can follow along in real time and see how others are responding to speakers and panels.
After
- Be sure to post a thank you to attendees, sponsors, and speakers for supporting your event. A little goodwill goes a long way.
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Compile user generated content posted on social media. Search your event hashtag to find posts you can use to promote next year's event. Ask attendees to share their favorite quotes, speakers, or moments from the conference.
Social media, when used efficiently, can play an integral role in driving attendance for your event. More importantly, it can be used to plant the seed for years to come. When searching for a venue for your next event, be sure to prioritize your social media needs. At The Otesaga, our marketing team can guide you through the process of planning your social media strategy. Contact us today to see how our experienced staff can help in all facets of planning your next event or meeting.