A trade show is not done until everything is packed up and you are on your way home. If it is a multi day show, your job and marketing lasts long after the trade show floor hours. The hours after the trade show floor closes are precious and you need to use them. Here are the ways you can.
Breakfast Meetings
Grabbing a cup or coffee with a prospect or customers is an underused opportunity. 30 minutes can help to close a deal, understand pain points, or clear up a misunderstanding.
People often drop their guard more during a breakfast also. Breakfast is often a personal or family time so people are more relaxed. You need to use this time to your advantage.
Group Outings/ Activities
If you have a smaller budget, skip the expensive dinners and unlimited bar tabs. Consider taking a mixed group of prospects and customers to go carts, on an exclusive tour, or any other activities.
You will stand out from the crowd, mingle more than a sit down dinner, and save money. To learn more about help planning out of town events read here.
After Hours Party
If you have the budget and the team to work it. After hours parties for clients and prospects can have a great ROI. You keep people away from your competitors and your sales people can get to know your guests in a less formal environment.
Limiting the type and level of liquor can help keep you on budget. Offer signature cocktails to give the event a more branded feel.
Hang Out at the Bar
Those chance meetings while relaxing after the show in the bar can turn into great conversations and opportunities.
For the money you are spending at trade shows, you need to take advantage of every opportunity to talk to your customers and prospects.