Top Five Delegate Boosting Tips for Destinations
Last week, I attended the Dallas Heli-Expo to delegate boost for the upcoming Helicopter Expo taking place in Dubai in November. I’ll admit that I’m not an expert on the benefits of fixed wing vs. flex wing aircraft and lack extensive technical knowledge about aviation industry. Yet I found success in delegate boosting from the tradeshow floor by deploying five simple tactics.
- Tip 1: Make Eye Contact and Smile
Such simple advice and yet, it makes all the difference in the world. Research estimates that body language, including facial expressions, account for 55% of all communication. You are much more likely to have people approach you when your body language is inviting them to do so. With the advent of the smartphone, there’s always the temptation to check email while standing at a booth but doing so sends the wrong message. Delegate boosting is about creating awareness and that starts with you!
- Tip 2: Ask Questions
Engaging prospects once they reach your booth is paramount. A majority of people are turned off by a “hard sell”, but simple questions such as, “have you heard about our convention,” or “have you been to our destination,” engages prospects. If they have, this is an excellent opportunity to further discuss. If they haven’t, you are likely to hear “I’ve always wanted to go,” and this is an even better opportunity for you to peak their interest.
- Tip 3: Have A Good Story To Tell
Hello elevator pitch! Of course you tailor it to the person you are talking to and their interest level, but this is your best chance to sell based on what they have revealed in the conversation.
- Tip 4: Stop In and Say “Hello”
Doing “booth drops” with remaining collateral you can raise awareness and engage prospects you have not connected with previously. I suggest doing this on the last day of a tradeshow, when traffic is dissipating. Just walk up to say, “Hope you had a great show! Just wanted to tell you about the upcoming event that we are hosting…”
- Tip 5: Don’t Be A Stranger
This seems like a no-brainer, but many people lose business because they neglect to follow-up on all sales leads.
These simple, yet effective tips can make all the difference in the world. If you have other tips that are worth recommending, comment on our blog and let us know!
