Category: SMfest updates

If you’re hosting an event, you need social media for maximum results. Social media has become an indispensable tool for event promotion. Learning how to prompt your event on social media in 2024 is very paramount.

With billions of active users, social media platforms offer a vast reach and the potential to directly connect with your target audience. You can effectively leverage social media to create buzz, generate interest, and drive attendance to your event.

In this article, you will learn 5 essential tips on how to promote your event on social media in 2024. You can maximize your online presence and ensure the success of your next event by following the tips that will be shared.

Why Should I Promote My Event on Social Media?

When you consider the numbers on social media platforms and how rapidly they increase, then you’ll understand why it is an important marketing tool. Promoting your event on social media is a smart thing to do.

Here’s why you should use social media to promote your event;

1. Increased Reach

Social media is a cheaper means to reach a larger audience when compared to traditional marketing forms. A Statista report suggested that in 2023, there were 4.7 billion social media users in the world. This massive number provides a vast potential audience for your event.

2. Improved Ticket Sales

A Social Media Examiner report shows that 67% of event professionals believe social media has a significant impact on ticket sales. Social media is your best chance to have a sold-out event.

3. Enhanced Brand Awareness

Social media gives your brand the awareness it needs. When you decide to promote your event on social media, you give your brand a voice loud enough to be heard by a large audience.

4. Cost-Effective Promotion

Compared to traditional marketing channels, social media can be a more cost-effective way to reach a large audience. With a small fee, you can reach thousands of users and get more results.

5. Real-Time Engagement

Feedback is healthy for the growth of any brand, this is what real-time engagement gives you. With social media, potential attendees can engage with your planned event. Real-time engagement enables questions and answers as well as creates excitement.

6. Data-Driven Insights

One of the game-changing features social media brings is data-driven analytics. Analytic tools available on various social media platforms are very helpful. They provide valuable insights into audience behavior. This allows you to measure the effectiveness of your promotional efforts and make data-driven decisions

Now that we’ve established how important it is for you to use social media to promote your event, let’s take a look at how you can promote your event on social media in 2024.

How Can I Promote My Event Using Social Media?

Here are 5 tips that will guide you as you prepare to promote your event on social media in 2024;

1. Define Your Target Audience

It is important to have a clear understanding of your target audience before diving into social media promotion. This is where you Identify their demographics, interests, and behaviors on social media. 

This information will help you tailor your content and choose the most effective platforms to reach them. When defining your audience, consider the following;

• Demographics: Consider factors such as age, gender, location, socioeconomic status, and occupation. When you understand your audience’s demographics, you will be able to target your messaging effectively.

• Interests: Find out what your target audience is passionate about and how your event aligns with their interests. This will enable you to create content that resonates with them. If you meet people’s passion, they will resonate with you.

• Social Media Behavior: Analyze how your target audience engages with social media. Find out the platforms they prefer, the content they consume, and the times they are most active. This is easier to do when you understand the type of audience you are looking for.

For instance, If you’re hosting a tech conference, your target audience might be young professionals in the tech industry. You can tailor your messaging to their interests by highlighting the latest industry trends. 

Feature keynote speakers from renowned tech companies, and showcase innovative technologies to draw their attention.

2. Choose the Right Social Media Platforms

After defining your audience, the next step is to choose the right social media platform. This is one of the important ways to promote your event on social media.

You have to understand that not all social media platforms are created equal. Select the platforms that best align with your target audience and the nature of your event. Consider factors such as platform popularity, user demographics, and content formats supported.

For instance, if your event is visually focused, Instagram might be a better choice than Twitter. Consider the types of content each platform supports and choose platforms that can effectively showcase your event.

3. Create a Compelling Event Page

A well-designed event page is essential. It provides potential attendees with all the necessary information about your event. When creating your event page, include the following key details:

• Event Name and Date: Clearly state the event’s name and date. Ensure to post updates if there are any changes to the date of your event.

• Location: Provide the address and any relevant directions. Be clear with this so that anyone who sees it can easily locate your event venue.

• Description: Offer a concise and engaging description of the event. Make sure to highlight the key features and benefits. This can attract attendees to your event.

• Tickets: If it is a paid event, provide information on ticket prices. State availability of tickets, and purchase options.

• Contact Information: Include contact details for inquiries or questions.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images and videos to showcase the event’s theme, venue, and activities.

4. Develop a Content Strategy

This is very crucial if you want to promote your event on social media and get results. A well-planned content strategy will help you create engaging and relevant content that resonates with your target audience. 

Experiment with various content formats, such as posts, stories, videos, and live streams. Find out which works best. Do your best to maintain a consistent presence. While posting, make use of high-quality images and videos to capture attention and make your content more visually appealing.

Make sure to include clear calls to action such as “Buy Tickets Now” or “Share This Event.” this encourages audience interaction.

5. Utilize Social Media Advertising

Social media advertising is a powerful way to drive event awareness and get people to attend. Targeted social media advertising will enable you to reach a wider audience and drive attendance. 

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn have their advertising features. Leverage these features to get the best results for your event.

To get the best out of social media advertising, get an ad expert or someone who understands how ads work. You wouldn’t want to spend your money on little or no results.

These 5 tips will help you effectively promote your event on social media. With consistent effort and creativity, you can successfully leverage social media to drive event attendance and achieve your goals. However, if you want to run an annual event, make sure to include post-event strategies in your social media promotion. This will make your event remain on the faces of your target audience for as long as possible.

SMFEST 2023 is the perfect platform for connecting, innovating, and growing your network! This year’s event promises to bring together a diverse group of professionals, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders, all eager to make meaningful connections and foster innovation.

We have compiled a comprehensive guide on effective networking to help you maximize this exciting opportunity. By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the event, build strong relationships, and pave the way for growth and success in your endeavors.

8 Tips To Effectively Network at SMFEST 2023

At the core of growth is building your network. And big tech events like SMFEST offer you that platform. While it’s great to afford a ticket and listen to the speakers and panelists, grabbing this unique opportunity to build your network is a great step to building your brand.

While walking up to people may appear daunting to introverts, these tips to effectively network at SMFEST 2023 is all you need to connect, innovate and grow.

#1. Define Your Goals

Before diving into Smfest 2023, take some time to reflect on your objectives. What do you hope to achieve during the event? Whether finding potential collaborators, seeking new business opportunities, or simply expanding your network, having a clear purpose will guide your interactions and make them more productive.

#2. Perfect Your Elevator Pitch

Your elevator pitch is your chance to make a memorable first impression. Craft a concise and compelling introduction that showcases your expertise, passion, and unique value proposition. Keep it succinct yet engaging, so you can confidently share it with anyone you meet.

#3. Be Approachable and Engaging

Approach networking with an open and approachable demeanor. Smile, maintain eye contact, and exude genuine interest in the people you meet.

Don’t hesitate to initiate conversations, and when you do, ask open-ended questions to encourage meaningful discussions.

#4. Leverage Social Media

In the digital age, networking extends beyond face-to-face interactions. Utilize social media platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram to follow event updates, engage with fellow attendees, and amplify your presence. Use event hashtags and tag relevant speakers and participants to broaden your reach.

#5. Attend Workshops and Sessions

Participate in workshops, panel discussions, and breakout sessions. These events offer valuable learning opportunities and serve as excellent icebreakers for networking.

Be proactive in sharing your insights during Q&A sessions, as it can spark conversations with like-minded individuals.

#6. Seek Collaboration Opportunities

Networking isn’t just about personal gain; it’s about fostering mutually beneficial relationships. Look for opportunities to collaborate by sharing ideas, resources, or expertise.

Collaborations can lead to innovative projects and business growth.

#7. Follow Up and Stay Connected

After the event, don’t let your connections fade away. Take the initiative to follow up with the people you met, expressing gratitude for their time and insights. Connect with them on LinkedIn or exchange emails to maintain the relationship.

#8. Offer Value to Others

Be generous with your knowledge and support. Offer to help others without expecting anything in return. You’ll establish yourself as a valuable contact in your network by being helpful and supportive.

Conclusion

Like the popular catchphrase, “You go explain tire”, imagine attending Smfest 2023 without networking. You go explain the tire, no evidence.
Smfest 2023 presents an exceptional opportunity to connect, innovate, and grow personally and professionally.

By following these tips on effective networking, you’ll be equipped to make the most of your time at the event and beyond. Remember, building meaningful relationships is the foundation for success in any industry. So, go ahead, and seize the moment.

This is all you need to understand SMFEST better and be free from some myths about it.

SMFEST has recorded more than 3000 participants in the last 2 editions (2021 & 2022) with the themes: ‘Big Picture’ and ‘Creative Disruption’ respectively. This year’s edition promises to be more impactful and excellent with the theme, ‘The Game Changer.’ SMFEST is ready to truly change the game by setting the pace. 

Despite being confirmed to be the biggest tech and social media event in the South East for two years consecutively, many people still have strange misconceptions about SMFEST. Popular SMFEST myths debunked in this article reveal truths about the event you never knew. 

What is SMFEST?

First, it’s important to note that SMFEST is a yearly event with a worldwide reach. It aims to educate attendees on effectively using technology, social media, and innovation to promote their businesses, brands, and causes.

During the past two conferences in 2021 and 2022, many attendees gathered at the renowned Landmark Event Centre in Owerri to gain insights from a carefully chosen group of industry experts.

In the crowd were people who had certain myths about the conference in their hearts, while some others had missed out because of them. Let’s take a look at some of these myths:

MYTH 1 – SMFEST IS ABOUT LECTURES & LONG TALKS 

Sadly, we must agree that many tech and media conferences always have many speakers lined up. Each of them takes turns climbing the stage and teaching for long hours. Most times, the audience loses interest. For this reason, many people have thought this is true of all tech events. It subtly became an SMFEST myth.

Unlike the norm, SMFEST being an event that promises innovation, has taken a different approach that eliminates the boring long lectures and talks by introducing a high-energy experience with interactive sessions and excellent speakers to drive a good conversation. Additions like fireside chats, spoken words presentation, games, etc., make the learning experience fun and memorable. 

Many do not know this change as the majority miss out on events because of fear of experiencing fatigue that comes with listening to too many long talks. SMFEST is not a conventional conference; thus, this feeling is just a myth related to SMFEST. 

MYTH 2 – IT IS FOR A CATEGORY OF PEOPLE

Generation X, Xennials, and Millennials easily exempt themselves from the mention of Tech. This leaves only Gen Zs on the table. Unfortunately, most Gen Zs insist they aren’t prepared for tech as they are easily overwhelmed.

It leaves us with the question, “Who exactly should be the face of tech, social media, and innovations? This question will find no answer if we continue to romance and accept this myth. The belief by different generations that tech is limited to just Gen Z has posed a significant threat to the maximization of tech and social media. 

After taking cognizance of the demography of the participants that attended the previous editions of SMFEST, it was deduced that more than 80% of the participants are Gen Z. This further proved that people of the other generations consider this to be limited to Gen Z and this is only but a myth. SMFEST, a tech and social media event, is not limited to a particular demography. 

More young people might be in the hall, but that doesn’t mean that older people aren’t allowed passage. Everyone that meets the criteria for being a participant in the event is very much welcome to partake, irrespective of your age. 

It doesn’t matter your profession and location; in this time and age, we all need technology to drive sales and visibility. 

See Also: SMFEST 2023 Theme; The Game Changer Prepares Tech Employees for The Future

MYTH 3 –  THE TICKET FEES ARE EXPENSIVE 

In the 2021 edition of SMFEST, top-notch speakers, such as the notable Nollywood actor Jim Iyke, were in attendance. He was a keynote speaker. Many who didn’t attend the event saw the quality of speakers invited, and excellence showcased through media platforms and concluded that the ticket that grants one access to SMFEST must be very expensive. This is yet another SMFEST myth.

SMFEST is not a profit-oriented venture. The conference is designed to create tech and social media awareness among participants. They are equipped with practical knowledge that helps them integrate tech and social media into their business for geometric growth. This reflects on the choice of speakers and resource persons.

SMFEST boasts of having the best lineup of speakers annually. In 2022, SMFEST hosted Mr. Funny (Oga Sabinus), who shared his journey and gave valuable tips on maximizing social media for profit as a content creator. SMFEST also hosted the likes of Naija Brand Chick (Nelly Agbogu), Mrs. Chioma Ifeanyi-Eze, Emeka Nobis, Obinna Ukachukwu, to mention only a few.

Access to these resource persons separately will cost an average person thousands of dollars. But SMFEST allowed participants to learn from them and gain access to them for a very subsidized fee. This is the community’s way of empowering Nigerians to become tech-savvy.

In previous editions, tickets cost as little as N3000, N7,000, etc. Although the ticket prices might change in the current edition, it is still very affordable. This is fair enough compared to the value added to every participant. Debunk this SMFEST myth today, and do not allow yourself to miss the next edition.

MYTH 4 – SMFEST IS A COMEDY SHOW

It is no longer news that many can easily mistake SMFEST as a comedy show as it has hosted a Nollywood actor (Jim Iyke, 2021) and a Social Media Content Creator (Oga Sabinus, 2022). The event’s beautiful branding and excellent look and feel can give the big comedy show vibes. Watching the pictures and videos of people laughing and happily engaging and connecting during the event can make you feel like it’s a comedy show. It is yet another myth.

As we’ve established, SMFEST is intentionally planned to host the best brains in different industries. These experts have leveraged tech and social media to innovate their businesses and brands to become of a world-class standard. The choice of speakers is a deliberate act, and these speakers understand the need to keep an audience engaged, so they apply best speaking practices that make the audience happy and easily connected.

SMFEST is not a comedy show. It is a value-oriented tech and social media conference. But who says you can’t have fun while learning? SMFEST offers you a fun learning environment. 

MYTH 5 – SMFEST IS LIMITED TO SOUTH-EASTERNERS

The last 2 editions of SMFEST have been hosted in the city of Owerri, Imo State. This has drawn large reactions from different people, especially as plans are ongoing for the 3rd edition of SMFEST. 

This quick labeling of the event as a South-Eastern limited event is untrue and should be considered a long-held misconception.

SMFEST is an event that accommodates individuals from different parts of the country and even beyond the shores of Nigeria. The previous editions have seen participants travel from different states and cities in Nigeria, like Lagos, Anambra, Benin, Ogun, Akwa Ibom, Abuja etc. 

This shows that the event is not selective of tribe, race, or color. It is a global vision born in Owerri with a view of expansion. SMFEST can be brought to your city, state, or country if you prove your location is ready to host this annual event.

It is tagged ‘SMFEST,’ so it is borderless and doesn’t discriminate. Rather, it is a platform that promotes unity in diversity. This can also be seen in speakers that have been invited so far. The selection is spread across different states as the major focus is having the best, not just regional speakers.

SUMMARY OF WHAT SMFEST IS NOT

• SMFEST is not a boring long lectures & talks event.
• SMFEST is not limited to a particular age.
• SMFEST Tickets are not Expensive.
• SMFEST is not a Comedy Show.
• SMFEST is not limited to South-Easterners.

SMFEST – HERE IS THE REAL DEAL 

• SMFEST means Social Media Festival.
• SMFEST is focused on tech, social media, and innovations that drive growth to businesses, brands, and communities.
• SMFEST is the biggest Tech and Social Media Event in the South East.
• SMFEST hosts only the best speakers in core industries
• SMFEST produces an excellent fun learning environment for participants.
• SMFEST set the pace for using tech, branding, and social media to gather thousands of creative minds to learn, innovate and grow.

CONCLUSION

Misconceptions about a person, business, brand, or event have never been wrong. Myths are existent everywhere, and that is why there is always a need to debunk these myths.

I trust that the SMFEST myths debunked in this article have clarified what SMFEST truly is, as promised earlier.

If you still have questions about SMFEST, feel free to ask in the comment section, and we will gladly answer you. Get a ticket now to attend