Here Comes Event Season: Are you Ready for IFA, MWC and CES?

By The Wireside Team

Even though it is the middle of summer, many technology companies are turning their focus on the upcoming trifecta of tech conferences – IFA, MWC Las Vegas and CES. While the first of the three shows (IFA) is still a month and a half away, comms strategists should already be planning for it. Whether you're feeling a bit behind or well underway with your plans, here are five tips to help you succeed this season. 

1.  Create a compelling story for the conference, and beyond – Take the time to develop a story that every person representing your company knows and can articulate during the conference. If you're going to multiple conferences, consider having a consistent message that plays out across all of them in different phases. For example, you unveil a new technology at one show, a suite of products at the second and a set of partnerships at the third – all connected to the same key theme. 

2. Look at the past to improve the future – Spend time researching how these shows have been covered in the past; look at what made headlines over the last few years and consider how the narrative has changed (or not!) as you craft your story for this year. 

3. Connect with organizers on last minute openings for panel discussions – Speaking on a panel is a great way to position your executive as a thought leader with a worthwhile point of view. If your company has not yet secured a speaking spot, stay in touch with the conference organizers about your desire to participate in a panel discussion. There could be a last-minute opening. And even if no speaking slot is available this year, you will stay top-of-mind with conference organizers, which could lead to other opportunities.

4. Check out the informal parties – Attend networking parties, as many key reporters, important influencers and industry analysts will head to these gatherings after the show floor closes. These parties are a great place to build relationships with some influential folks.

5. Use your surroundings thoughtfully – Consider a media event that takes advantage of the show's location. If you're launching a product at IFA, take reporters and influencers out on a walk in Berlin's Tiergarten and use your new product in a way that shows off its features. If you're debuting a new location-based solution at CES, drive analysts out to the Grand Canyon to see it in action. Getting folks out of the convention hall, creates an opportunity for conversations and demonstrations away from the tradeshow “noise."

Curious about creating an effective PR program at a conference? Reach out to us for ideas – we're always happy to chat!