5 Best Practices for a Virtual Trade Show; Tips for 2022

As the event industry fully embraces the digital realm, trade conventions are expanding within the virtual ecosystem. In order to create a thriving consumer exhibition, planners should be aware of the five best practices for hosting a virtual trade show.

Ineventors understands the learning curve related to virtual venue platforms, and as such, we are excited to provide our insight on how to create a successful virtual trade show. And while many of the practices are similar to in-person events, virtual trade shows possess unique features that will lend to the success of your next production and increase ROI for your stakeholders.

1. Identify the main benefits of your virtual trade show.

A crucial step in planning your virtual event is understanding the value it will bring for your attendees. You can begin by assessing the benefits, which should then weave into your event goals.

“Plan your virtual trade show in a way that educates marketing professionals on new tools and applications and communicates this through interactive workshops and demos.”

Such benefits can include networking prospects, branding and business exposure, education, and the promotion of goods and services. Whatever you choose to highlight, ensure that it aligns with your overall messaging and business objectives.

 2. Have a Strong Marketing Plan.

Today’s digital age is ripe with opportunities to incorporate omnichannel marketing to attract the right consumers, attendees, and exhibitors. Particularly within such an infinite and saturated space, it’s essential that your virtual trade show stands out among industry competitors.

Incorporating tactics such as custom URLs, email drip campaigns, procuring sponsorships, and collaborating with industry leaders are methods you can use within your overall marketing plan. You can also create hype by reaching your core demographic via targeted searches and SEO strategies.

Ineventors is now offering custom URLs, which allows clients a complete, white-label experience.

3. Take Advantage of Branding Opportunities.

Incorporating sponsorships into any event is an essential practice, and it is a significant step for your trade show production.  The addition of such support comes with the responsibility to cross-promote sponsored ads, and virtual trade show platforms offer multiple opportunities to take advantage.

During slide and session transitions, you can utilize the functionalities available on your virtual platform to incorporate logos, products, and even headshots from your featured speakers. In addition, you can integrate video ads and introductions from your sponsors into carousel slides or banners to further elevate and promote brands and services that have aligned with your production.

4. Create an Engaging User Experience.

One of the most important aspects of any industry gathering is to provide opportunities to engage your audience. With the rise of virtual event designs, the challenge has been how to create an immersive experience that is on par with in-person models.

“When you decide to hold a virtual event, you’re making a statement of intent… And as with so many customer-focused experiences, a great user experience in virtual events is vital.”

With virtual trade shows, the user experience begins with your choice of platform. In researching which companies build virtual trade shows, choose a model that offers customizable features that provide easy connectivity and technical support, along with abilities to socialize and network with other attendees.

Planners should schedule content in a palatable manner with chances for breaks, group chats, and sharing feedback where applicable. When in doubt, you can collaborate with your virtual venue representative on preparing a visually and mentally stimulating environment for your guests.

5. On the Topic of Data and Analytics.

One of the most significant advantages of hosting a virtual tradeshow is collecting quantifiable data and attendee insights instantaneously. Unlike traditional in-person exhibits, virtual tradeshows and hybrid models allow for the immediate collection of analytics.

Such data is invaluable when reviewing the success of your virtual trade show and illustrating the ROI for your event stakeholders. You can use this information to assess how your speakers and exhibitors were received, track engagement, compare attendance of various sessions, and gather a deeper understanding of your audience.

Explore Our All-In-One Platform for Virtual Trade Show

In choosing our virtual venue for your upcoming production, you will have access to versatile features, data collection, and customization that will lend success towards the best five practices of hosting a virtual trade show.

Ineventors will work with you to deliver a memorable experience. Contact us today to schedule a demo or to discuss a quote.