Inside the Creator’s Workshop: Conquering the Convention Floor

Conventions are an electrifying experience—bustling with passionate fans, talented creators, and endless opportunities. If you've made it this far, you've already put in the hard work: planning, prepping, and packing everything you need. But now comes the most important part—execution. The convention floor moves fast, and making the most of every moment is key to maximizing your success. Whether you're a first-time exhibitor or a seasoned pro, having a solid strategy will help you sell more, engage better, and leave a lasting impression.

One of the most crucial elements of convention success is your booth presence. A great setup will catch people’s eyes, but it’s your energy and engagement that will bring them in. Standing, smiling, and maintaining an open and inviting posture goes a long way in encouraging attendees to stop by. Don’t wait for people to approach you—initiate conversations! A simple greeting or an open-ended question can spark meaningful interactions. Perfecting your pitch is also key. Keep it concise, compelling, and tailored to each visitor. Not everyone needs the full backstory—sometimes, a quick, engaging summary is all it takes to pique their interest.

Of course, the ultimate goal is to turn these interactions into sales. Offering bundle deals or exclusive convention-only discounts can create urgency and encourage customers to buy more. If someone picks up one book, suggest another that complements it. Upselling and cross-selling are valuable techniques that can increase your sales per customer. And don’t forget about your digital store! Many attendees may not be able to purchase on the spot, so providing QR codes or easy links to your online shop ensures they can still support you later.

Beyond sales, conventions are also about networking and brand building. Connecting with fellow creators, vendors, and industry professionals can open doors to future collaborations and opportunities. Exchanging social media handles and business cards helps keep the conversation going beyond the convention floor. Additionally, documenting and sharing your experience in real time—whether through posts, stories, or live streams—boosts your visibility and engages your online audience.

Amidst the excitement, it's important to take care of yourself. Long convention days can be exhausting, so staying hydrated and having snacks on hand will help maintain your energy levels. Being adaptable is also crucial—if something isn’t working, be it your pitch, display, or pricing, don’t be afraid to pivot and refine your approach on the spot.

We talked with indie creators through our Instagram chat, they emphasize the importance of keeping interactions natural and engaging. Instead of overwhelming potential customers with too much information, keep pitches short and focus on what excites them. Asking open-ended questions and making genuine connections can make a huge difference in sales and networking. Show enthusiasm for your work, and that excitement will be contagious. Some creators find success by making small talk, offering multiple products with different pitches, or having their work displayed prominently to draw people in. Ultimately, being authentic, approachable, and adaptable will help create a memorable experience for attendees.

Every convention is a learning experience. Whether it’s refining your sales pitch, testing new engagement techniques, or building stronger connections, each event is an opportunity to grow and improve. So, as you step onto the convention floor, embrace the energy, adapt to the moment, and most importantly—have fun. Your passion for your work is contagious, and when you genuinely enjoy the experience, your audience will too. Happy con season!