Your Conference Doesn’t Start at the Registration Table
We always remind our clients: conferences don’t just happen in person anymore. Your digital presence before, during, and after an event can dramatically expand your reach. Whether you’re attending as a speaker, exhibitor, or guest, your social media channels should be part of your pre-event checklist.
Why? Conferences bring together your most relevant audiences in one high-energy moment. That includes potential partners, donors, members, and industry peers. Social media is your megaphone. It can amplify the impact of every handshake, breakout session, and booth visit.
Let’s explore how to use it effectively.
Before the Conference: Build Buzz
Think of your pre-conference social media as your digital RSVP. You’re letting people know you’ll be there, and why it matters.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Announce your presence. A simple graphic or photo with the event hashtag and your role (booth number, speaker session, etc.) can drive awareness.
- Tease your content. Share a behind-the-scenes look at what you’re prepping—from swag bags to presentation slides.
- Engage early. Like, comment, and reshare posts from the event host and other attendees. This builds visibility and goodwill before you arrive.
And don’t forget your LinkedIn audience—this is where decision-makers live.
During the Conference: Capture the Energy
The conference is on. Now is your time to shine in real time. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Here’s how we guide our clients:
- Share live updates. Post photos, speaker quotes, and key takeaways using the event hashtag. Tag people and orgs when possible.
- Use video. Quick phone videos at your booth or a 15-second takeaway after a session can help make your content feel authentic and boost engagement.
- Highlight people. Feature your team, attendees you meet, or fellow nonprofits doing great work. This brings warmth and relatability.
- Pin your booth location. Make it easy for people to find you in a crowded venue. Use Stories or a pinned tweet/post.
Need extra help? RBOA often builds out real-time content strategies or even supports live posting for clients.
After the Conference: Extend the Momentum
Just because the nametags are packed away doesn’t mean your visibility ends.
We encourage our clients to:
- Recap the experience. A post-event blog or carousel of highlights keeps the conversation going.
- Tag and thank. Acknowledge speakers, vendors, new connections, and the host organization.
- Share your wins. Did you meet a milestone? Gain new followers? Build partnerships? Let your audience celebrate with you.
- Invite next steps. Whether it’s signing up for a newsletter or scheduling a follow-up meeting, include a call to action.
How RBOA Helps You Show Up Online and On-Site
We know that our clients often wear many hats. You’re prepping materials, organizing teams, and navigating travel logistics. Social media might be the last thing on your list.
That’s where we come in. RBOA can:
- Build a pre-during-post content strategy
- Create branded graphics and templates for your event
- Manage content capture or live posting
- Support ad campaigns to boost your presence
The result? You show up looking polished, organized, and ready to engage—both on the ground and online.
The Wrap
Social media extends the impact of your conference’s shelf life. Every post helps reinforce your mission, elevate your visibility, and build deeper relationships. The next time you pack for a conference, make sure you pack your digital strategy too.
If you’re ready to level up your event presence, let’s talk. RBOA is here to help you turn moments into momentum.
RBOA is a digital marketing agency with a 40-year legacy of creativity, smart strategy, and fresh thinking that delivers award-winning communications and successful results. We provide clients with a unique, omnichannel blend of advertising, social media, digital marketing, and web design services.
If you are interested in learning more about digital marketing for your organization, we hope you will reach out to RBOA to schedule an exploratory call.
FAQs
- Which platform is best for conference coverage?
Instagram Stories and LinkedIn are typically strongest for real-time updates and professional visibility. We help clients tailor their mix. - What if I don’t have time to post during the event?
Schedule what you can in advance, and ask a team member to help with live post. Or let RBOA handle the strategy and content for you. - Should I invest in paid ads for a conference?
Sometimes! If visibility is a priority or you’re launching a campaign at the event, targeted ads can increase reach. - How soon should I start posting before the conference?
Ideally, 2–3 weeks out. Earlier, for big events where people plan in advance. - What if my booth isn’t that exciting visually?
You don’t need flashing lights to be engaging. Feature your people, your purpose, and the attendees who stop by. Connection is the best content.