Elevating Your Event Prospecting Game: The Merch Edition

As we approach a new year of trade shows, meetings and events, have you started thinking about your prospecting strategies? I might be biased, but no matter your industry, branded merchandise can be a powerful tool to attract potential clients. Here are some ideas on how you can make your event merch the talk of the show!

The FOMO Factor: Creating Buzz with Your Branded Items

Ever noticed how certain booths at events seem to draw crowds? Often, it's because they're offering something unique and desirable. Let's tap into that excitement with a strategy I call "Get it Before It's Gone."

The Concept

1. Exclusive, Limited-Edition Merch: Create items that resonate with your industry but have a universal appeal.
2. Quality Matters: Ensure your logo is visible, but focus on designs that people will want to use long after the event.
3. Strategic Distribution: Make your booth a must-visit spot by offering these items only to those who engage with your team.
4. Interactive Data Collection: Instead of a simple sign-up sheet, consider a quick digital quiz or survey that's both fun and informative.

Merch Ideas That Resonate with Your Industry

Think about items and slogans that would resonate with people in your industry. For example, here are some ideas for the construction industry that are equal parts fun and industry-relevant.

Apparel:

Building the Future, One Beam at a Time

Hard Hat Nation

Concrete Dreams, Solid Teams

Paving the Road to Success

Measure Twice, Cut Once

Steel-Toed and Ready to Go

Bags:

Tools of the Trade

Blueprints Inside

Built for Big Ideas

Drinkware:

Powered by Hard Hats and Fresh Ideas

Pouring Over Plans

Built to Last, Sip by Sip

Lapel Pins:

Licensed to Build

Amplifying Your Strategy

1. Pre-Event Teasers: Use social media to create anticipation. Post sneak peeks with captions like, "Coming soon to [Event Name]. Will you be one of the lucky few?"
2. Team Engagement: Share videos of your team excited about the new merch, building curiosity without revealing everything.
3. Interactive Booth Elements: Set up a photo area where attendees can showcase their new swag, encouraging social shares with your branded hashtag.

If people are flying for the event, won’t they just leave the items behind?

No - if the merch is limited and on point they will find room in their suitcase.

Why This Prospecting Approach Works

1. Exclusivity: Limited availability creates a sense of urgency and value.
2. Engagement: Interactive elements like quizzes or photo ops encourage meaningful interactions.
3. Extended Visibility: Well-designed, useful items continue to promote your brand long after the event.

By implementing a "Get it Before It's Gone" prospecting strategy at your next event, you're not just handing out freebies – you're creating an experience. You're giving attendees a reason to seek you out, engage with your team, and remember your brand - which will hopefully result in them buying from you in the future.

Remember, the goal isn't just to give away stuff; it's to start conversations, make connections, and collect information along the way. With the right approach, your branded merchandise can be the key to turning curious attendees into valuable leads.

So, are you ready to be the booth or meeting room everyone's talking about at your next event??