Marketing for your event can be challenging and even daunting, it can cost a fortune and often requires specialised software or teams, now I'm not saying having a larger budget for your marketing campaign won't pay off but you definitely can achieve similar results without breaking the bank.
Social Media
One of the best ways to engage and attract new buzz to your event is through social media. It goes without saying social media is one of the most successful marketing strategies out there, however it can be overwhelming. The beauty of Social Media is there's no right or wrong way to use it and you most definitely don't have to be an expert to see impressive results. There are currently 3.8 billion people using social media and 54% of those users are consumers looking for and researching new businesses, services, and products. Your job is to get your event seen by those consumers. Most social media platforms work with an algorithm that isn't to be underestimated! If even one person likes your post the platform will be more likely to show your account to others who they think might enjoy it too. Posting daily on whatever platform you're using is proven to get your account seen by a much wider spread of people. Be engaging on your accounts, create polls, caption your posts with questions people feel compelled to answer in the comments, all of these techniques will draw new attention to your page, this will subsequently boost your event. Most importantly don't be afraid to network with others yourself, you don't always have to wait for a herd of people to find your social media, reach out to those you think might enjoy your posts, follow accounts that align with your values, it's all about creating your own little digital community. You'll be surprised how fast it can grow!
Collaboration
Collaboration is another full proof way to promote any event. The beauty of being a business owner is there are thousands of other businesses trying to do the exact same thing as you. Reaching out and networking with similar events and companies or totally different from yours has a huge success rate for expanding your reach. You can collaborate with these partners however suits you but getting the ball rolling with a meeting to discuss what you can do for each other is a perfect start. Perhaps you may write a blog for each other's websites, or make a guest appearance on an Instagram story, or even co-star in an episode of their podcast, it's about creating an exchange in which both sides gain something great from, and in turn, you're not only expanding your network but getting your event seen and heard by a whole new audience ready to explore what you're all about.
Incentives
Incentives and free gifts for consumers are a perfect way to draw in new crowds. Giving things away for "free" can seem like a waste, however, when offering incentives to new consumers it isn't really a free gift, their future business and support is the price and it will most definitely pay off. The incentives can range and don't necessarily have to involve a loss of profit, although "10% off when you sign up!" does work, there are plenty of other options. Like creating valuable content that is exclusive only to those who sign up for your newsletter. it's a win-win, the consumer is happy and you have gained new loyal business.
Getting your event seen and heard can be difficult but it's so important to never stop talking and creating noise around it. You never know who is searching for exactly what you have to offer.