Welcome to the latest installment of the Blog Conference Prep series that Shell from Things I Can’t Say have been sharing.
So far we have covered:
- How to anticipate conference costs
- How to get a conference sponsor
- How to prep your blog for a conference
- How to prep your life for a conference
Today, we’re covering networking. Shell is talking about why you shouldn’t be afraid to talk to people at conferences, while I’m discussing how to communicate with brands. Remember, brand representatives are people too!
Talk about yourself- a little.
While you don’t want to monopolize an entire conversation with a brand representative, you do want to make a lasting impression. Share something memorable about your blog, such as a feature you do or a story you shared that relates to their brand. Make it clear why they should remember you.
Do not start by demanding “stuff”.
Brands attend and sponsor these events looking to promote their products, first and foremost. Many of them also attend to grow their community and network with bloggers. By the fact that they are at a blogging conference in the first place demonstrates that they at least have a basic understanding about how awesome bloggers are at spreading the word about brands.
Keep in mind, timing is everything.
Chances are, brand representatives are not going home and immediately sending out emails to bloggers. While many will do this as an initial contact, many promotions and programs are not going to start the week following a conference. For example, last year, a group of bloggers were invited to attend a brand event five months after Blissdom- and more opportunities to work with the brand continued throughout the year. Make your connections, keep in contact, and do not expect immediate results.
Maintain an open mind.
While there are many major, well-known brands at conferences, do not let the fact that a table or booth is advertising a brand you don’t recognize discourage you from engaging. Start-ups, local companies, and smaller businesses that attend these conferences can be the perfect partners for you to work with in some way. Beyond learning about something new, you may have first access to the next great thing.
What are some of your networking tips for a conference?
Don’t miss Shell’s post today Blog Conference Prep: Why You Shouldn’t Be Afraid to Talk to People to learn how to network with other conference attendees!
This is one of the parts of a conference that intimidates me the most. I would love to extend my reach and work with brands, but I have giant insecurity issues about them shooing me off when they hear how little my “reach” is
Twitter: galitbreen
says:
Really good advice, Ashley!
Galit Breen recently posted..Go For It, Always
Twitter: inmyownstyle
says:
Hi Ashley-
I have been following this series and I haven’t left a comment yet, but I am gleaning lots of good info from it. Thanks so much!!!
My best- Diane
Love your last point, especially. And I would assume that it’s a little less intimidating to approach a small business than a major brand. At least it would for me!
Kristin @ What She Said recently posted..To Be a Dad
I’m really enjoying these posts. I’ll be attending my first conference this year and I’m happy to have the heads up!
Twitter: ByWordsMusings
says:
Also, you don’t have to come away from your first conference being ‘friends’ with dozens of people … if you come away with a handful that you feel you connect with, you have done well. Nurture those new friendships, you will be surprised at how they can blossom.
great series Ash and Shell xxx
By Word of Mouth Musings recently posted..Pinterest Junkie