Bospar’s PR Playbook for TechCrunch Disrupt and Beyond
With TechCrunch Disrupt just around the corner (October 28-30, 2024), now is the perfect time to gear up for one of the biggest events in the startup world. At Bospar, we’ve guided countless clients through conferences, creating buzz and building connections that last. Whether you’re a budding founder with a groundbreaking idea, a seasoned startup ready to scale, or an investor on the hunt for the next big thing, Disrupt is where innovation thrives. This year, Bospar will be there, with Tsai-Ni Ku, Senior Account Executive, and Joe Valensky, Account Supervisor, on-site to support our clients and connect with industry peers.
Here’s how you can make the most of your experience.
Pre-Event Planning: Research and Reach Out
Success at conferences starts long before you arrive. Do your homework on attendees, speakers, and potential investors. Create a shortlist of people you want to connect with and reach out in advance.
Pro Tip from Brandy Patton-Miller, Account Manager at Bospar:
“Have a quick and easy way to share contact information. At HR Tech, every attendee badge had a QR code linked to LinkedIn profiles, making connections instant. A shortlist of prospects is great, but don’t underestimate spontaneous chats—they often lead to unexpected opportunities.”
Booth Best Practices: Setting Up for Success
If you’re setting up a booth, it’s not just about selling a product. Make it an experience people will remember. Consider interactive elements, exclusive demos, and memorable swag. Here are some strategies from Stacey Grimsrud, Vice President at Bospar:
1. Engage with a Prize or Competition: Host a giveaway, raffle, or game that aligns with your brand to keep traffic flowing.
2. Share Unique Insights: Offer demos or talks that visitors can’t find anywhere else. Make it a learning experience.
3. Make Your Swag Stand Out: People love swag, but make yours useful and unique so it keeps your brand top of mind long after the event.
On the Ground: Networking Like a Pro
Once you’re at Disrupt, the goal is to connect, but the sheer volume of people can feel overwhelming. Here are some key tips to make it easier:
1. Have Contact Info Ready: Make it effortless to share your details through QR codes, business cards, or digital contact cards.
2. Comfort is Key: Conferences are long. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, and as Brandy said, “leave room in your suitcase for the great swag you’ll pick up!”
3. Stay Flexible: Even with a plan, things can change. Be ready to pivot and have backup options if meetings fall through.
Media and Interviews: Setting Realistic Expectations
If you’re supporting clients at Disrupt, manage interview expectations carefully. Schedules are tight, and journalists are in high demand, so securing media meetings can be tough. However, analysts are often more accessible.
Best Practices for Media Engagement:
- Clarify Goals: Align your approach with what your client wants from media coverage.
- Prepare Clients: Equip them with talking points and key messages, and prepare them for those unexpected questions.
- Expect Cancellations: Journalists’ schedules can change, so be ready to adapt.
Post-Event Follow-Up: Keep the Momentum Going
The work doesn’t stop when Disrupt ends. Follow up with everyone you met within a few days—thank them, share additional info, or schedule further conversations. Consistent follow-up is key to building lasting relationships.
TL;DR: Milk It for All It’s Worth
Events like TechCrunch Disrupt really are a great opportunity to network, learn, and build your brand. With some solid upfront planning, strategic engaging, and diligent follow-up, what might otherwise have been that cacophonous blur of missed connections can, in fact, be an orchestrated success.
At Bospar, we’ve seen time and again how a smart conference strategy can raise profiles, forge connections, and drive real results. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a startup team member, or a PR pro, we hope these tips will help you make the most of your time at Disrupt.
Let’s Connect!
Bospar will be represented at TechCrunch Disrupt by Tsai-Ni Ku, Senior Account Executive, and Joe Valensky, Account Supervisor.
Say hello, and let’s see how we can take your brand to the next level!
