No matter where you are in your franchise ownership journey, franchise trade shows can still benefit you. And as the franchise industry is gearing toward physical attendance, you can leverage the value of having a lot of professionals in a single location. Whether you are looking for expert advice or searching for a new franchise to invest in, you can find it at franchise trade shows
The results of attending industry trade shows can be valuable if you plan well. Below are some effective tips to help you take full advantage of franchise trade shows:
1. Make an early reservation. Some franchise shows sell all their tickets or have a specific number of people who can attend certain events. Check the schedule for each day and reserve on time to enjoy early-bird pricing while ensuring you have access to all options you are interested in.
2. Book a room at the hotel where the show is taking place. While you will want to save money when attending a trade show, it’s important that you get a good return for your time and investment. So, try to stay in the show’s hotel, even if that will cost you a few more dollars. The hotel is where most of the event’s activities will take place and is full of potential contacts. After the event closes, the lounge is where new franchise owners are recognized and pitched to. In fact, the business connections that take place in the after-hours can be as many as those that occur on the show floor.
3. Decide which objectives are most important. Are you searching for a new franchise business or an expert who can mentor you? Do you need financing to expand your business? No matter what you are looking for, target the exhibitors that suit your needs. Then, identify where their booths are and find ways to reach them. Franchise trade shows can be likened to difficult mazes with rows of future partners, so you need to plan your route before arriving there.
4. Plan your time: Schedule time for everything you are going to do at the show, from seminars to lunch dates. Select the important people you would like to meet and find out their booth location. Fix appointments or dinner with those you want to see before you go there. The large number of attendees and exhibitors at the event will make unplanned meet-ups almost impossible.
5. Learn a new thing: Those who arrange trade shows often include educational seminars to attract attendees. These seminars can be about different topics, including marketing, legal, financial advice, how to select the right franchise, etc., so you can easily find something that fits your needs. Also, during live presentations, you’ll be able to talk to speakers in person, create a connection, and get their contact details.
6. Be present at the opening event or keynote speaker. Show organizers offer these opportunities since they allow attendees to gain a better understanding of the latest trend and research in the franchise industry. Also, keynote speakers talk about the franchise concept in the presentations. Afterward, you can ask your new acquaintances what they think of a speaker or the whole event. This is a great way to get information and start conversations with people you meet at the event.
7. Pack the right clothes. When going to franchise trade shows, you need to wear appropriate attire. If you are looking to operate a beauty franchise, you have to look great. If you want to own a business consulting franchise, putting on shorts and sneakers won’t give a good impression about you. Regardless of what is appropriate for you, it is important to go along with comfortable shoes (for example, flats if you are a woman). Trade shows are highly valuable, and you want to avoid a situation where you have to miss an important event because of tired, aching feet.
8. Bring your business cards. We may be moving away from paper business cards, and some organizers can make their franchise shows high-tech enough for attendees to collect information digitally, but you may still have use for business cards in the hotel lobby, elevator, or bar. So, make sure to have your business cards with you, and as you weigh up franchisee opportunities, try to collect other people’s cards and make a note about each person you meet – the things you discussed and follow-ups you need to do when you reach home. The most important benefits of attending trade shows are the connections and relationships you will make.
9. Follow up after the show: When at trade shows, many of us are excited to start conversations, share ideas, and make new contacts. We feel energized and motivated to take the next big step, but when we return home—we go back to our normal routine and forget to do follow-ups. To lower the chances of being pulled back into the rat race, set aside some time a few days after the show when you will start building on the relationships. And to be successful with this, you need to schedule the time before going to the show so that you don’t become distracted.
Franchise shows and expositions are a great place for future franchise owners to connect with one another. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to meet many industry experts and business professionals who can guide you as you prepare to move to the franchise world. When you plan well for a franchise event, you will find out that it is worth the time you put into it. So, make plans, have fun, and get the most out of your franchise trade shows.
