Connor Bartholomew
Connor Bartholomew is CEO of Trade Show Display Depot, a factory-direct seller and manufacturer of trade show exhibits.
Guide to Incorporating Tech in Trade Show Networking
November 1, 2023
Creating a network of valuable trade show contacts requires a holistic approach. Preparation and follow-up are equally vital as on-site performance. Networking at trade shows works in the same way it does in other aspects of life. The only difference is that you have a true ally on your side during the trade show: a fantastic display with convincing booth workers.
Trade shows exhibits have always been essential for industry professionals to forge valuable connections, promote products and expand business horizons. Success hinges on innovation and efficiency, and networking at trade shows is no exception. Seasoned industry experts already understand the significance of networking, but what if there was a way to enhance your networking experience even further?
Embracing the Power of AR and VR
Gone are the days of static pamphlets and videos to showcase your products. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) revolutionize marketers’ engagement with their audiences. Here are the benefits of incorporating AR and VR into your trade show strategy:
- Dynamic product showcases with AR
- Immersive experiences through VR
- Increased foot traffic to your booth
- Boosted brand exposure
- Foster genuine enthusiasm
By using AR and VR at trade shows, you position yourself as a forward-thinking industry expert capable of delivering captivating and memorable experiences to your audience.
Leveraging Mobile Apps and Social Media for Seamless Networking
When you embrace mobile apps and social media, you take your trade show networking to a new level. It’s not just about connecting with potential clients during the event. It’s about nurturing those relationships and fostering business growth all year round. Here are the practical benefits of incorporating these tools into your trade show strategy:
- Effortless data collection with mobile apps
- Seamless networking with social media
- Building lasting relationships
- Maximizing networking opportunities
- Real-time engagement
AI-Powered Efficiency with Chatbots and Intelligent Systems
AI is the game-changer at trade shows, empowering smart decision-making. A smart registration system fueled by AI curates personalized content and suggests relevant sessions based on attendees’ data, such as demographics and interests, enhancing meaningful interactions. Benefits include:
- Personalized content recommendations
- Streamlined communication with AI chatbots
- Anticipate attendee needs
- Optimized event planning
Ensuring Cybersecurity and Data Privacy
Addressing cybersecurity and data privacy concerns is essential as technology becomes more ingrained in the trade show experience. With valuable information circulating in digital spaces, safeguarding sensitive data is paramount. Trade show organizers should implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect attendee information and maintain their trust.
Enhance Your Trade Show Experience with Tech Advancements
As industry experts, you grasp the significance of networking at trade shows. Embrace cutting-edge techs like AR, VR, mobile apps, social media and AI chatbots. Engage attendees, gather data, build connections and optimize event planning. Stay ahead by utilizing these powerful tools for an unforgettable trade show journey.
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Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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