Microsoft Convergence 2010 is right around the corner.  I’m looking forward to a great trip to Atlanta — and hope to see you there!

Whether you’re showcasing your Microsoft Dynamics ISV products with a tradeshow booth at the Expo or you’re a Microsoft Dynamics VAR bringing customers, or you are a customer, independant consultant, etc., my feeling is that if you are going to spend the time and the money, you may as well do it right.  You need a strategy in place!  

Step One:  Build Pre-Show BUZZ!   Let people know you are attending and why they might want to meet with you.  I see some companies doing a great job of building pre-show buzz!

• Rock-N-Rave and The Spot are two consortiums of Microsoft Dynamics ISVs who have put together the “IT” parties for Microsoft Dynamics GP partners and customers.  Both have put together a professional looking website, and have been promoting the event through email and the social media sites:
  • Follow Rock-N-Rave on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.  
  • Follow The Spot on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter (no account, but use the hashtag #thespot2010)
  • While I’m sure they don’t have quite as many followers/fans as they would like — I know they’ll get a fabulous turn-out for the event.  Social media marketing is just starting to catch on in the Microsoft Dynamics community. Perhaps Rock-N-Rave and The Spot should make it interesting by having a bet on who can get the most Facebook fans?! Throw down a challenge and see who rises to the occasion.
• I see others who just want “a select few” attendees sending out promotions for their parties and dinners as well. The point is — you can’t wait until the show date.  People’s schedules will already be filled.  You need to give advance notice whenever possible.

Step Two:  Pull Your Look Together!   Make sure all your employees have current business cards (AND that they bring them along).  Shine up your website.  Shine your shoes while you’re at it…. Set yourself up for success.  Make sure you look as good as you are!

Step Three:  Be Prepared for Follow Up.  Follow up is THE most important thing you can do.  Don’t leave it as an after thought.  Know exactly how you will follow up with the people you meet at the show.  Will you send a hand-written note? Will you send follow up emails?   What will your follow up offer be?  You should know this NOW so that you can execute on your plan immediately while the leads are hot.  Leads grow colder by the day…

P.S.  If you want to meet up at Microsoft Convergence in Atlanta — either to discuss marketing or to taste test favorite beers, give me a call at 949-357-6356.  See you soon!