Attracting and retaining an engaged audience is a key goal for any event organizer. Increased attendance numbers not only help create buzz and energy at your event, but also look good to stakeholders and sponsors. However, getting more people to show up is easier said than done. Follow these proven tips to promote your event and drive higher attendance effectively.
Start Marketing Early
Don’t wait until the last minute to start promoting your event. Begin sharing save-the-dates, announcements, and teasers well in advance. The more lead time people have to schedule the event, the more likely they will attend. Aim to start marketing at least 2-3 months ahead of time.
Offer Discounts and Deals
Special offers entice people to take action sooner. Consider early bird pricing, group discounts, or loyalty coupons to reward repeat attendees. Bundling event access with extras like swag, meals, or entry to an after-party also adds value. Just be sure to clearly communicate deadlines for taking advantage of deals.
Get Speakers and Sponsors On Board
Nothing adds credibility to an event like big-name speakers and sponsors. Their followers and networks can significantly expand your reach. Make sure to highlight their involvement prominently across all event promotions, including on lecterns and signage at the venue. Also, provide speakers and sponsors with assets and messaging to share through their own channels.
Leverage Social Media
Use short, compelling posts across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to generate buzz leading up to the event. Ask engaged followers to share or retweet posts to extend your reach. Use relevant hashtags so content is visible to those interested in the event topic or location. Consider running social media contests and giveaways as well.
Connect with Relevant Groups and Media
Other organizations and media outlets tied to your event topic are great partners for cross-promoting. See if they will share event details with their members or audiences. Also, reach out to local calendar listings and blogs as additional channels for exposure. Offer complimentary media passes to encourage coverage.
Make Registration Seamless
Eliminate any friction during the registration process. Keep forms short and simple. Allow registration through multiple channels, including website, email, social media, phone, and in-person. Ensure the registration system can handle heavy traffic volumes without crashing or slowing down. Send confirmation emails and payment receipts promptly after signup.
Follow Up with Attendees
Nurture your registrants leading up to the event. Send reminder emails with event logistics as the date nears. Provide recommended parking, transit directions, or ridesharing options to simplify attendance. Most importantly, get attendees excited by highlighting key program features and what they will gain from participating. A bit of extra TLC goes a long way.
With strategic, multi-channel marketing and clear communication, you can maximize turnout at your next event. Pay close attention to promotion timing, pricing incentives, and the attendee journey. If done right, you will enjoy the energy and connections that come with a room full of engaged participants gathered around a prominent lectern showcasing your event.
Stand Out with a Custom Lectern from Podium Pros
Attracting and retaining an engaged audience is a key goal for any event organizer. Bring your event to the next level with a personalized, high-quality lectern from Podium Pros. As an industry leader in lectern manufacturing for over 20 years, Podium Pros delivers specialized furniture that makes a statement. Our innovative designs, premium materials, and A/V integrations are unmatched. We build modern lecterns for conferences, trade shows, board rooms, academic functions, and more.
From concept to completion, we work closely with clients to create a one-of-a-kind lectern tailored to your needs. Our quality Canadian-made products feature:
- Sleek contemporary styling
- Logo branding options
- Multiple finish choices
- Built-in A/V customization
Let Podium Pros provide the centerpiece for your next event. Speak with a sales associate today to get a custom quote. Your audience will take notice of your elevated presentation needs.
Contact Podium Pros today to get started on your customized lectern!
