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Inspiration

7 steps for hosting a dynamic DIY tradeshow

new connections. Consider ending the day with a dinner
and awards program to recognize top performers and
celebrate success stories.
4. Engage and include partners

Involve your key partners early in the planning process.
Ask for their suggestions and offer them opportunities
to set up booths or kiosks where they can showcase their
latest products and services, and invite them to participate
f you have a growing payments business, hosting a in panel discussions or give presentations.
one-day, in-person event can be a fantastic way to
celebrate the achievements of your merchant level This involvement not only provides valuable exposure for
I salespeople, in-house customer service reps and your partners, but also enhances the overall educational
technical support staff, and key partners. content of your event, making it more attractive to
attendees.
Modeled after regional acquirers shows, but on a
much smaller scale, such an event can strengthen 5. Ensure effective event promotion
existing partnerships, foster new connections and show
appreciation for the people who are contributing to your Promote your event well in advance to ensure maximum
success. attendance. Use a mix of email marketing, social media
and direct communication to reach your invitees. Create
Here's a guide for pulling off this type of event in style. excitement by highlighting keynote speakers, special
sessions and social activities. Consider using online event
1. Define your objectives registration tools to streamline the process and keep
track of RSVPs. This can be helpful even when you're not
Start by clarifying the primary goals of your event. anticipating a large crowd.
Defining your objectives will guide every other decision
you make, from selecting a venue to designing the agenda. 6. Plan for seamless execution
For this type of event, the focus could be on celebrating
accomplishments, networking, and providing value Organize a dedicated event team responsible for different
through learning opportunities and strategic discussions. aspects of the event, from vendor coordination to attendee
registration. Ensure you have the right technology in place,
2. Choose an accessible venue such as audiovisual equipment for presentations and
software for managing check-ins. Additionally, prepare
Select a venue that is easy for all attendees to reach, contingency plans for potential issues, like technical
including partners who are unfamiliar with your locale. glitches or weather disruptions, to ensure everything runs
Consider a local hotel with conference facilities, a country smoothly.
club, or a community event center.
7. Evaluate and follow up
Ensure has adequate space for vendor booths, a stage or
area for presentations, and seating for any planned dining After the event, gather feedback from attendees, partners
or awards programs. The venue should also accommodate and your in-house team to identify what worked well and
or be close to facilities that can accommodate social what could be improved. Use surveys or feedback forms to
activities such as a golf outing, live entertainment, etc. capture insights. Follow up with attendees to thank them
for their participation and to maintain the connections
3. Create a dynamic agenda and momentum created during the event.

To keep the day engaging, design a varied agenda that With thoughtful planning, a well-rounded agenda and
balances formal and informal activities. Start with a effective promotion, your event could become an annual
welcoming keynote address to set the tone for the event highlight that reinforces your company’s culture of
and outline its purpose. Schedule educational sessions appreciation and growth.
that address industry trends, such as use of AI in fraud
prevention or chargeback mitigation, and ensure they
provide value to salespeople, staff and partners.

Leave plenty of room for networking, and provide breaks
where attendees can explore vendor booths and establish Kate Gillespie, President and CEO
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