How well is the events industry using social media?
Louise Walters, CEO of exhibition stand design company Priority Exhibitions, talks through five key ways she advises clients on how to really get the most from their exhibition stands to promote themselves at exhibitions and conferences.
Like any industry, the events and exhibitions industry is a mixed bag when it comes to adopting new marketing methods and new technologies. Some exhibitors and exhibition organisers are using Twitter, LinkedIn and other platforms really well, while others are really missing out.
Here at Priority Exhibitions, we use our Twitter account to talk to other people in the industry, find out how our exhibition stands were received and to connect with other people and businesses.
I thought it would be interesting to put together a round-up of some of the best examples of social media I’ve seen in the exhibitions industry over the past few months.
1. Frankfurt Book Fair
Frankfurt Book Fair took place in 2011 from October 12-16, and is a brilliant example of using Twitter for business. With more than 7,000 followers and an account since 2009, this is a really active account. With a named person (Anne Eckert) this Twitter feed has a personality and is a genuinely interesting read.
Frankfurt Book Fair Twitter feed
2. World Travel Market
World Travel Market runs a highly active LinkedIn group with 3,130 members. People from the travel industry right across the world use it to network, pose questions and discuss all elements of their work.
The conference also has a Twitter account with 9,489 and is a very good example of how to use Twitter to promote an event. It is updated regularly all year, gives out interesting links on the travel industry, and runs competitions.
World Travel Market LinkedIn Group
World Travel Market Twitter feed
3. Adtech
With almost 2000 followers this is a fantastic Twitter feed even after the 2011 event finished. However, the exhibition is all about digital marketing, so you would expect them to have a good Twitter account! They regularly tweet out really interesting links to stay engaged with their followers in between events. It’s one we recommend.
Adtech Twitter feed
4. 100% Design
One of the most active LinkedIn Groups is for the 100% Design exhibition, which is based at Earl’s Court in September. With more than 2,300 members there is active discussion and networking happening all year round.
5. The Baby Show
This is a really popular event which travels around the UK, and visits London ExCEl and Earls Court, Birmingham NEC and Manchester Central in one year.
Not only do they have a fantastic Twitter feed, which news, discussion and competitions, they also have a Facebook page. Not many exhibitions use Facebook to promote themselves so it’s great to see a company do it so well.
The Baby Show Twitter Feed
The Baby Show Facebook page
Contact Priority Exhibitions on (+44) 02476 843 181 or email info@priority-exhibitions.co.uk to find out how we can help you with social media and marketing for your exhibition stand.
