How can you create loyal conference attendees and alumni?

1 Offer value and relevance

One of the main reasons why people attend conferences is to learn something new, gain insights, and improve their skills. Therefore, you need to offer value and relevance to your target audience, by curating high-quality content, speakers, and sessions that match their needs and interests. You also need to communicate your value proposition clearly and effectively, by highlighting the benefits and outcomes of attending your event, and using testimonials and case studies to showcase your credibility and authority.

2 Engage and connect

Another key reason why people attend conferences is to network, connect, and interact with others who share their passion and challenges. Therefore, you need to engage and connect with your attendees before, during, and after the event, by creating opportunities and platforms for them to interact with each other, with you, and with your speakers and sponsors. You can use social media, email, mobile apps, online communities, live polls, Q&A sessions, gamification, and feedback surveys to create engagement and connection. You can also use personalization, segmentation, and recognition to make your attendees feel valued and appreciated.

3 Create a memorable experience

People remember how they feel more than what they learn or do. Therefore, you need to create a memorable experience for your attendees, by exceeding their expectations, delighting them with surprises, and making them feel part of something bigger. You can use storytelling, branding, design, entertainment, and social impact to create a memorable experience for your attendees. You can also use emotion, humor, and inspiration to evoke positive feelings and emotions in your attendees.

4 Build a community and a legacy

People want to belong to something that matters and that lasts. Therefore, you need to build a community and a legacy for your attendees, by fostering a sense of belonging, identity, and purpose among them. You can use your mission, vision, and values to build a community and a legacy for your attendees. You can also use events, activities, and initiatives that support your cause, your industry, or your society to build a community and a legacy for your attendees.

5 Encourage loyalty and advocacy

People trust and follow people they know, like, and trust. Therefore, you need to encourage loyalty and advocacy among your attendees, by rewarding them for their loyalty, referrals, and feedback. You can use loyalty programs, incentives, discounts, and perks to encourage loyalty and advocacy among your attendees. You can also use testimonials, reviews, ratings, and word-of-mouth to encourage loyalty and advocacy among your attendees.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?