September 2021 SD Missouri River Tourism
Sports & Travel Shows 2022
Sports and travel shows can be a large part of a marketing budget. Attending a show can be costly so you need to look for ways to keep the costs reasonable. The key is to plan wisely when putting your show schedule together.
Choose your shows wisely. Are they in your target market area? Always do the research before you book a show that you’re not familiar with. Can they get to your business or community easily?
Think about partnering with other communities, regions, or businesses. Yes, you’re all competitors, but you’re all there for the same reason. There are guidelines that can be set to make sure everyone is represented fairly. And, by partnering you can cut the cost down – and even take on a show or two you might not have been able to afford before. A win-win for each partner.
Handing out swag can also capture the attention of the show attendees. I’ve had people come up to the SD Missouri River Tourism booth a year after they had picked something up and want to talk again – you never know when they will decide to take that trip to your area. It’s called name and area recognition. Your promotional items must make a connection between your business and the customer.
Be sure whoever attends the show for you is someone that truly enjoys being at a show and talking to people for hours – answering the same question many times and always staying engaged with people walking by. A simple “hi” can bring someone to the booth that might otherwise walk by. Sadly, I’ve seen too many people in booths that don’t want to be there and it’s quite obvious – and your thought is “boy, are they wasting their money.” You have minutes or even seconds to make that first impression!
At SD Missouri River Tourism we are gearing up for shows in 2022 – and for our members there is a show co-o[ buy-in that they can take advantage of. For a small amount SDMRT will take brochures from your business or community to the shows we attend. If you are interested and are not a member of our organization – get ahold of us at 888-386-4617 or stop out at the Oahe Visitor Center and visit with us.
When exhibitors plan ahead after deciding to promote through sports/travel shows they can come away with great benefits. Research and planning is the key!
