How To Know If An Industry Event Is Right For You

December 9, 2020

Being part of an event, whether virtual or in-person, takes energy, time, money and resources, and some businesses struggle with deciding if a show is a good fit or even the right decision at all. 

Use these tips to figure out what kind of industry event is right for you, how and where to look for them and why they are crucial.

Do You Share The Same Target Audience?

When you hear about an upcoming function, you can browse through their marketing materials and website to find out further details. Of course, you’ll want to consider facts like when it is taking place, but your main concern should be the target audience. 

If you have created a new gadget for listening to music, you don’t want to go to a health fair. If you are in the construction business, you don’t want to attend a conference for advertising professionals. Sometimes, it is not so black and white, though, so look at the fine print, the about section and the call to action to make sure your target customer/client will be participating.

Is It In Your Budget?

Money is an important topic to consider, no matter what your business does, and it is a big factor in nearly every single decision, including here. After finding an event that looks interesting, check out the associated costs; there could be an entry fee, there may be advertising opportunities, and there are sometimes things like a booth, swag, business cards, hotels and travel tickets, as well. 

With the large number of trade shows and conferences that exist, there is bound to be something that works with your budget. Just weigh the pros and cons so that you are not missing out on something or blowing everything on one day.

Are Your Competitors Involved?

Another good way to determine if something is a good fit is to see if your competitors are involved. Whether it is a fair, a networking event, a party or a sponsorship opportunity, it is a good way to get in front of interested people, as you spread awareness and drum up business. And if those with similar product(s)/service(s) are somewhere, then there is a good chance that you need to be there, too!

How and Where To Find Events

In today’s tech-driven world, the internet is a wonderful tool for researching industry events. On a similar note, you can reach out to organizations directly, ask to be on mailing/emailing lists or in social media groups and talk to peers and colleagues to find more options.

Why Be Involved?

You know what to consider when searching for events. You have some ideas on where to find out about them. But why should you care? There are lots of reasons!

Industry functions allow you to mix and mingle (whether face-to-face or virtually) with like-minded professionals. You can check out the competition, you could meet a new employee or investor, and you will make connections that could turn into beneficial ones or even beautiful friendships. They get you in front of a crowd, as you appeal to fans and followers and can provide insight that increases your credibility and shows your thought leadership.

Similarly, you can learn from others at these functions; your team can attend lectures and seminars that equip you all with further tools, resources and education. And the main reason to be involved is for brand awareness and business! You can be active online and advertise out in the world, but these targeted and in-depth interactions are huge.

 

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Overview: The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality. In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way. “We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.” Amenities: The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.  The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need. Gold Key Members The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events. OCCC Events: This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.  The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:  AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023 200,000 Attendees $257 Million in Economic Impact MEGACON 2023 160,000 Attendees $205 Million in Economic Impact Open Championship Series 2023 69,500 Attendees $89 Million in Economic Impact Sunshine Classic 2023 42,000 Attendees $54 Million in Economic Impact Premiere Orlando 2023 42,000 Attendees $108 Million in Economic Impact