By Nichole Freije, account manager
I attended the Greater Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce Schmooza Palooza event last week at Conseco Fieldhouse. The social event featured entertainment, refreshments, networking opportunities – and lots of exhibitor booths.
The best booths were the ones that engaged the attendees. Offering a branded giveaway drew people in to talk with the organization’s representative. I received a coaster from a staffing company and microwave popcorn from a mortgage lender.
Some exhibitors engaged the crowd with games and activities. Cornhole or bean bag toss was popular with a few exhibitors. Ruth’s Chris featured a spinning wheel similar to Wheel of Fortune, and there was a line of people waiting to spin.
The exhibitors who offered food samples were a hit, too. I appreciated the restaurants that offered a treat and a coupon, like Paradise Bakery & Café. Offering a coupon is a great idea for two reasons. First, the recipient has an incentive to patronize the business. Second, the organization can monitor its marketing and advertising investment by marking the coupon and tracking when it is redeemed.
The number one “must have” for exhibitors: outgoing and knowledgeable representatives. The giveaways, games and food can draw a crowd to the booth, but once people are there, the exhibitor must engage them with useful information.
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