Episode 215

215 - How Technology is shaping In-Person Events - with BJ Mazmanian

Event Tech flourished throughout the pandemic as we all went virtual. How about now with Live In-Person events back to being the norm? 

My guest BJ Mazmanian is Sr. Director of Client Services and Live Events at Bluewater. With a 20-year career in the live events space, BJ focuses on mobile and large-scale events, bringing a unique perspective on how to think through activation plans, extend client budgets, and push clients out of their comfort zones. 

We discuss:

  • How has technology impacted the way brands approach in-person events, particularly trade shows?
  • What types of technology are brands using to create a more personalized sales process at trade shows?
  • What are some of the biggest challenges that brands face when trying to make their trade show booths more exciting for attendees? How do you address those challenges?
  • How can brands ensure that their booth stands out in a sea of other booths at a trade show?

BJ's Takeaways:

1) By scanning and interacting with different elements in the booth, a communication plan can be created based on all of the elements that were selected or interacted with that get sent automatically.

2) Extending dollars that are being spent – meaning looking at mobile tours / digital interactives that are being made to be used after the singular event. Create a canvas that can be updated / changed based on the show vs starting over every time

3)Think larger than just one event or one event budget. How can you build a strategy and plan that will help you get more bang for your buck?

Connect with BJ:

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About the Podcast

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Trade Show University for Virtual & Live Events
Value-packed resource for Trade Show exhibitors & producers, and those who run Virtual Events & Webinars. With our passion for shows, we'll help you Get your PhD in ROI.

About your host

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Jim Cermak

Jim Cermak - Podcast Host & "Professor" at Trade Show University - has over 25 years of marketing, consulting and training experience. Plus he has planned, exhibited and attended hundreds of trade shows. His energy and passion for helping companies succeed at their shows is what fueled him to start the Trade Show University podcast.