Hosting marketing dinner seminars often attracts individuals commonly known as “plate lickers”—attendees primarily interested in a free meal rather than the seminar content.
While this may seem counterproductive, having such attendees isn’t necessarily detrimental.
In fact, their presence can offer several unexpected advantages:
Enhancing Audience Size and Atmosphere
A larger audience contributes to a more dynamic and engaging seminar environment. When the room is filled, discussions become livelier, and the energy levels rise, creating a positive atmosphere that can enhance the overall experience for all participants.
This vibrancy can make your presentation more impactful and memorable.
Increasing Word-of-Mouth Potential
Even if some attendees are there mainly for the meal, they may talk about the event afterward. This word-of-mouth can extend your reach beyond the seminar, potentially attracting future attendees interested in your services.
Personal recommendations and shared experiences can be powerful marketing tools.
Providing Networking Opportunities
A diverse audience offers a broader networking platform. Regardless of their initial intent, engaging with various individuals can lead to unexpected connections and opportunities.
Some “plate lickers” might refer friends or family who need your services, indirectly expanding your client base.
Offering Practice for Refinement
Presenting to a mixed audience allows you to refine your delivery and adapt to different audience dynamics. This practice can enhance your public speaking skills and improve the effectiveness of future seminars.
Each event becomes a learning experience, helping you to better tailor your message and approach.
Demonstrating Generosity and Community Engagement
Providing a meal showcases your generosity and commitment to community engagement.
This goodwill gesture can enhance your reputation and build trust within the community, portraying you as approachable and caring. Such positive perceptions can be invaluable for your brand image.
While it’s essential to aim for a qualified audience, embracing the presence of “plate lickers” can yield these ancillary benefits, contributing to the overall success of your marketing efforts.
For information on our data-driven seminar marketing, Quantus Event Management System, or Seminar Follow-Up Program, please contact us at (800) 340-4794 or visit us at www.dataleader.com
PLUS: When you have time…below are some free marketing resources to support the success of your dinner seminars.
The Seminar ROI Calculator
The Free, Online, Seminar ROI Calculator helps you visualize the impact of your seminar marketing. Just input your seminar data to see a projection of your cost for marketing, revenue generated, and total return on investment. To get started, Click Here.
The Free Insider Seminar Guide
The Free, Insider Seminar Guide includes the seven critical best practices for seminar marketing and an annual calculator of recommended seminar dates for the best ROI. To download your Free Insider Guide today, Click Here.
The Follow-Up Campaign ROI Calculator
The Free, Online, Follow-Up Campaign ROI Calculator helps you visualize the impact of continuity marketing. Just input your marketing campaign data to see a projection of your response rate, cost per conversion, commissions, and return on investment. To get started, Click Here.
