How to Get the Most from Attending Performance Marketing and Affiliate Conferences

I LOVE performance and affiliate marketing conferences – most marketers do. There’s something electrifying about meeting clients, uncovering fresh tactics, and seeing how brands show off their creativity at these in-person events. I’m always curious to see just how creative the booths and branded giveaways will be, how well-prepared (or not) the speakers are, and let’s be real – the after-parties and side events? That’s where the real magic happens!

But while showing up is fun, squeezing real value from these events – like networking, generating leads, and boosting your business – takes more than just attendance.

After organizing and attending countless performance marketing and affiliate conferences, I’ve discovered that it all boils down to three key factors: preparation before the event, execution during, and follow-up afterward. So, let’s dive into how you can truly maximize your next conference experience!

Your Next Affiliate Conference: Prepping for Event Success

This phase is all about setting the stage for success – think of it as your blueprint for victory! It starts with research, outreach, and goal-setting.

So, what’s your game plan for the affiliate conference? What are the goals?
Common objectives for attending marketing conferences include raking in leads, forging new relationships, and soaking up valuable insights. Identify the key players you need to connect with and get specific about your goals.

How will you measure success? How many new clients and partners are you aiming for, and from which verticals? What impact will this have on your ROI?

Don’t forget about those strategic face-to-face chats with existing partners – let’s keep those gems out of the Zoom realm!

And what burning questions are you itching to explore by attending speeches and panels or during conversions with peers?

Who’s attending the event? Spread the word that you’ll be there! Let your circle know through your social channels, an eye-catching email signature banner, and a few well-placed messages. After all, it’s not just about showing up; it’s about making a grand entrance.

As mentioned, you’ll want to carve out some quality face time with existing clients and partners, so find some chaos-free moments for those chats. Reach out to them early – ideally as soon as you book your tickets and accommodation. It’s often best to meet up a day or two before or after the event with familiar faces. After all, these events can get pretty overwhelming!

During event dates, you’re there to make new connections and discoveries. Big events like Affiliate World (Dubai, Europe, Asia) or Affiliate Summits in the US give you access to an attendee list weeks in advance through their event apps. Check out who’s attending, what they’re into, and plan your strategy accordingly. Set up meetings, find booth locations, or map out the hottest side events – whatever it takes to lock in those connections!

Once you’ve completed your research and outreach, it’s time to perfect your sales pitch or business proposition for existing partners. Be sure to gather any digital or physical assets you might need, and think ahead about how you’ll collect and qualify leads efficiently.

And don’t forget to pack your favorite outfits, comfortable shoes, those essential adapters, and a few small tokens of appreciation for your partners – because who doesn’t love a little extra gratitude?

In-Event Impact: How to Maximize Every Moment of Affiliate Conferences

It’s show time! Performance marketing conferences are all about mingling and having a good time, but let’s not forget the real mission: your goals! Keep your KPIs front and center. Use whatever system works for you to collect leads – be it the event app or a trusty note app on your phone.

And don’t forget to tune in: listen to hear! These events are goldmines for learning, packed with people eager to share their best practices. You can catch these gems in one-on-one meetings or, more commonly, during panels, sessions, and workshops. You’d be surprised how many folks are ready to spill the beans on their success. Stay open to their insights – you never know which little nugget could change the game for you!

During breaks, remember to stay hydrated (don’t forget your water bottle) and take a moment to jot down those witty insights and memorable comments about the people you meet and the ideas you gather.

In the wise words of KJ, COO of Affiliate World Conferences, it’s not just about the main stage and market floor – it’s about soaking up the entire experience, including all those fabulous side events and after-parties! So, embrace the FOMO: say yes to every opportunity and party invite that comes your way. You never know where the next great connection or adventure might lead.

And hey, don’t forget to be your best, most polite, and friendly self. Let your personality shine brighter than the conference lights!

And let’s not forget the golden rule of affiliate marketing conferences: have a blast! Sure, it’s a professional gig, but who says you can’t enjoy yourself while you’re at it? The cherry on top is that whatever you achieve will feel even sweeter because you had a great time. 

Post-Event Action: What to do After the Conference is Over

The conference may have wrapped up, but your work has not. Remember all those meetings, the intriguing folks you chatted with, and the emails you swapped? Now it’s time to put the pedal to the metal and start sending out those follow-up emails and messages. 

Just a heads-up: after a successful conference, everyone’s inbox is bursting with hundreds of emails. It’s all part of the game! Don’t be shy – get in there, be witty, remind people of memorable moments, and make your presence known! 

A second follow-up email can work wonders to ensure you don’t get lost in the shuffle and get the most out of your experience.

Now’s also the perfect time to dive into your KPIs and set a timeline for tracking them (e.g. three, six, twelve months). This will help you determine if the event was a success and whether it’s worth marking your calendar for next year.

Wrap-Up Your Affiliate Conference Attendance with Flair

So, there you have it – a roadmap to not just attend but truly thrive at performance marketing and affiliate conferences. Keep your energy high, your curiosity alive, and remember: every connection is a potential opportunity. As you dive into your next conference, ask yourself this: What’s the best takeaway you can bring back to your business?

And hey, when in doubt, just remember the golden rule: Work hard, play hard, and don’t forget to have a little fun along the way. Cheers to networking, learning, and making lasting memories!