The excitement for ConExpo is something that builds for months. There are ads in every construction magazine for “Big Reveals” and exciting activities that keep the event buzzing. Leading up to the 2020 ConExpo was no different, everyone was excited, ready to show off new products and booths. Things played out a little different than usual, but this may not have been a bad thing.
“ConExpo 2020 was something none of us expected.”
ConExpo 2020 was something none of us expected. Between the rain, coronavirus*, and a shortened show; this years ConExpo was not lacking in drama. With worries about potential exposure and looming travel restrictions, attendees and exhibitors were jumping ship left and right. Oddly enough, this smaller number of attendees and exhibitors may have been the best thing to happen to the smaller businesses in the construction industry exhibiting at ConExpo this year.
Having attended ConExpo for 5 years as a small company out of North Carolina, this show has always been a great opportunity for WORD Rock Drills to generate leads across the U.S. and internationally that we may not have otherwise made contact with. However, as a small business at this type of show we are often bombarded with vendors trying to push their own products and unrelated attendees who only visit our booth hoping to leave with free stuff. These categories of attendees can take away from the time our team can spend answering real questions and clog up our lead tracking system making it difficult to pursue follow-ups.
“The quality of leads we received at this ConExpo was beyond what we expected!”
The quality of leads we received at this ConExpo was beyond what we expected! Of course there could be a number of reasons for this: a better booth location, an enhanced booth setup, or the increase in pre-show marketing. Or … it could have been because of the attendees that DID show up! Attendees at this ConExpo had to be dedicated and determined in order to face the potential risk and show up regardless. These attendees were serious about their product research and truly looking for quality products. The smaller crowd made their mission easier and gave us more quality time to spend with these attendees answering their questions.
Overall, the drama surrounding ConExpo 2020 turned out to be a blessing for us as a small business. We are so thankful for the attendees that made the choice to show up and we feel like we were truly able to serve them amidst the circumstances. The results of this ConExpo is a testament to the small ways that God is looking out for small businesses during periods of uncertainty. Returning to the office we are energized and ready to serve our customers through the coming weeks and beyond.
*This article is not intended to diminish the seriousness of COVID-19 or the current pandemic. Please refer to the CDC and local governing officials for facts and current legislation surrounding COVID-19.