Kent Business Show – how to collect and use data

If you’re exhibiting at the Kent Business Show in March, don’t miss the opportunity to collect data from potential clients – it can provide various commercially useful marketing opportunities.

Here's how to prepare:

1.?????? Understand ‘personal data’

This includes anything that identifies an individual, such as name, email addresses, phone numbers, and job title. UK GDPR rules apply to how you collect data and where.

2.?????? Obtain consent

You can ask for any information you like but you must be clear about how you’ll use it. A digital or printed privacy notice explaining how you intend to use and store their data is best.

3.?????? Only collect what is necessary

Only request information that is necessary for your purposes – known as ‘data minimisation’. But don’t let that hinder your creativity – if knowing a person’s favourite ice cream flavour can legitimately support your business goals, ask!

4.?????? Train your team

Everyone gathering and using information on behalf of your business must understand how to do so in a compliant way. Consider organising some training. ?

5.?????? After the show

Review all data collected and delete unnecessary information. Sort it into meaningful categories such as business type, location etc and then – get in touch asap! Consider sending a special offer or free information to start building a positive relationship. But make sure it is relevant to them.

For all you need to know on UK GDPR and data compliance, visit my stand at the Kent Business Show and pick up my new book “The Business Owner’s Guide to GDPR” which I'm launching on the day.