It’s that time again—conference season. Whether you’re packing for an industry event across the country or just starting to plan your calendar, you’re probably wondering: Are these conferences worth the investment?
While some firms that attend conferences return with valuable connections and promising opportunities, others find their efforts yield little more than a handful of business cards and uncertain next steps. If that sounds familiar, it may be time to take a closer look at your conference approach—not to overhaul it, but to elevate it.
A few simple marketing moves can take your presence from passive to proactive—and bring structure, visibility, and staying power to your conference efforts. And if you’re not sure where to start, don’t stop here, keep reading on.
Get On the Radar Before You Arrive
One of the easiest ways to boost your visibility at a conference is also one of the most overlooked: pre-conference communication.
If the event organizers provide an attendee list you have a golden opportunity to reach out before anyone steps into the conference hall. A short, friendly email can go a long way. Include a photo of your team members who will be attending and a quick note letting people know you’ll be there.
You might be surprised by how often people recognize you from that simple touchpoint. We’ve had people approach us at conferences saying, “I saw your face in an email and just wanted to say hello.” That kind of recognition creates instant connection and gives you a head start on meaningful conversations.
Turn LinkedIn Into a Real-Time Visibility Tool
Let’s talk about LinkedIn. Yes, compliance can be a factor and you’ll want to be mindful of that, but if you’re not using LinkedIn during conferences, you’re missing a major opportunity.
Posting during the event—whether it’s from your corporate page or individual team members—can boost your visibility when attendees are most engaged. And don’t wait until the event is over. Conference-goers are often scrolling LinkedIn between sessions or during coffee breaks. A quick post with a headshot and a note like “Excited to connect at [Conference Name] this week” keeps your name and face in front of people when it matters most.
It’s not about being flashy or salesy. It’s about showing up and reminding people you’re part of the conversation.
Leave Something Behind That’s Useful
Let’s face it—conference swag can be hit or miss. Pens, stress balls, and keychains rarely make it past the hotel room trash can. But a thoughtfully designed brochure? That’s something people tend to hold on to.
Even if you’re not exhibiting or sponsoring, having a leave-behind like a company overview, investment highlights, or a concise one-pager gives you a reason to follow up—and gives your new contact something to remember you by.
The key is to treat these materials as a conversation extender. You’re not handing out flyers to everyone who walks by. You’re offering something useful after you’ve had a meaningful discussion. That shift makes a big difference in how your firm is remembered—and whether your conversation continues post-conference.
From Planning to Follow-Up, Marketing Intent Helps Elevate Your Entire Conference Presence
Here’s the good news: none of this is complicated. But it does require intention and planning—and that’s where Marketing Intent comes in.
We work with alternative investment firms to build conference marketing strategies that are structured, simple, and repeatable. From pre-event emails and social media posts to follow-up materials and design support, we help ensure your team is visible before, during, and after each event.
Too often, conferences feel like a blur. You fly in, rush through meetings, and fly out only to realize two weeks later that you never followed up with that promising prospect. We help you eliminate the guesswork by giving your conference activity a plan and a purpose.
Whether your current approach is working well and you just want to level it up—or you’re starting to wonder if these events are worth it—we’d love to talk through your framework and help make your next conference your most effective one yet.
Because the goal isn’t just to show up. The goal is to stand out and connect with the people who matter most to your firm.
