Events

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Event Tech Essentials: Engagement, Lead Capture, AI

By Sarah Taylor, Yo Marketing Agency Head of Global Events In my last blog, I [shared how technology has transformed events](https://yomarketing.agency/blogs/from-punched-cards-to-the-cloud-in-your-pocket/), just as it transformed data storage from 62,500 punched cards in 1966 to cloud storage in your pocket today. Now, in Part 2, we’ll dive into some of the most powerful event tools available right now, from real-time audience engagement to AI-driven analytics, and how they can help you deliver experiences that are more engaging, efficient, and impactful. #### 1. Real-Time Audience Engagement Platforms like Slido, Mentimeter or Pigeonhole Live make it easy to run live polls, quizzes and Q&As during sessions. They keep audiences engaged and give you instant feedback you can act on. #### 2. Event Apps & Attendee Networking Customisable apps such as Whova or EventMobi allow attendees to view schedules, connect with other participants and receive updates in real time - all from their phone. #### 3. Lead Capture & Follow-Up Tools like Cvent LeadCapture or iCapture sync attendee data straight to your CRM. No more scanning business cards or manually entering leads after the event. #### 4. Hybrid & Virtual Event Platforms Whether you’re live-streaming or hosting a full virtual experience, platforms like Hopin, Airmeet or vFairs can deliver a smooth, professional feel for remote audiences. #### 5. AI-Powered Analytics & Personalisation Platforms such as Grip or Bizzabo use AI to suggest networking matches, personalise content recommendations and give you deep insights into attendee behaviour. #### Bringing It Together The key isn’t just knowing these tools exist, it’s choosing the right combination for your event goals, audience and budget. The tech landscape moves quickly, so staying informed and adaptable will keep your events ahead of the curve. At Yo Marketing, we specialise in weaving these tools into an event strategy that works seamlessly, from pre-event promotion to post-event follow-up. [![Schedule a free strategy session today](https://8pfraw1pqsd9gr2m.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/cta/schedule%20a%20free%20strategy%20session%20today-71nxI8IjipsNWn5HZlezFcxibVvXHd.png)](/contact/)

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From 62,500 Punched Cards…to the Cloud in Your Pocket

By Sarah Taylor, Yo Marketing Agency Head of Global Events I was feeling nostalgic clearing out the attic the other day, when I stumbled across an old photo online that stopped me in my tracks. It showed a woman in 1966 standing beside an enormous stack of punched cards - 62,500 of them to be exact, which together stored just 5 megabytes of data. It took four days to load it all. Back then this was cutting-edge technology. Today, 5MB is smaller than a single high-resolution image on your phone and it’s transferred in seconds. This isn’t just a quirky bit of tech trivia. It’s a vivid reminder of how quickly technology evolves and how it reshapes the way we work. ### The Event Industry’s Parallel Journey In events, we’ve seen the same transformation. What once took weeks of planning, manual processes, and physical logistics can now be streamlined with a few clicks. • Audience engagement is instant, with live polls, Q&A platforms, and real-time analytics. • Lead capture happens seamlessly, syncing directly with CRMs rather than relying on post-event data entry. • Hybrid experiences connect people globally in a way that was unthinkable decades ago. Just like the punched card days, the “best practice” of today will soon feel outdated. ### The Competitive Edge: Moving With the Tech The winners in events and in marketing as a whole are those who adapt quickly. Leveraging new tools, from AI-powered personalisation to immersive virtual reality, isn’t just about novelty; it’s about delivering better experiences, faster and more efficiently. If 62,500 punched cards can now fit in the palm of your hand, what could your next event achieve when you harness today’s tools to deliver tomorrow’s experiences? Catch up on Part 2 of this blog series, where I’ll share some of the best event tools available today, from real-time engagement platforms to AI-powered analytics and how to use them to make your events unforgettable. It’s a reminder that the right tools don’t just make life easier they unlock possibilities you might never have considered. That’s exactly what we focus on at Yo Marketing. From creating real-time engagement to capturing and nurturing leads after the event, we help businesses deliver event experiences that feel effortless for attendees and impactful for the bottom line. Let’s talk about your next event – [Get in touch here](https://https://yomarketing.agency/contact/) [![Schedule a free strategy session today](https://8pfraw1pqsd9gr2m.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/cta/schedule%20a%20free%20strategy%20session%20today-71nxI8IjipsNWn5HZlezFcxibVvXHd.png)](/contact/)

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Pipeline Behind? A Mid-Year Marketing Fix

By Sarah Taylor, Yo Marketing Agency Head of Global Events The calendar says June, but your pipeline says February. If you're a marketer or sales lead silently stressing that your targets are still on the horizon rather than within reach, you’re in good company. **73%** of B2B marketers say they’re struggling to meet lead gen targets this year and we're only halfway through. (Source: Demand Metric) So what’s going wrong? Here are 3 common (and fixable) reasons marketing and sales targets are off-track at this point in the year: ### 1. The Strategy Never Left the Slides Let’s be honest: many teams started the year with ambitious OKRs and bold GTM plans. But somewhere between January kick-offs and budget re-forecasts, the actual strategy got buried under campaign chaos and content requests. Without a clear, actionable roadmap, teams are defaulting to ad hoc tactics; launching webinars, running paid ads, or planning an event with six weeks to go and praying for results. Only **42%** of marketers say their marketing strategy is clearly aligned with sales goals. (Source: HubSpot) ### 2. Events: Still a Great Play…When Done Early A well-executed event can still deliver quality leads and sales momentum in H2 - but here’s the catch: last-minute event planning won’t cut it. Late planning leads to: **• Rushed messaging** **• Poor delegate turnout** **• Weak pre/post follow-up** **• Zero alignment with sales** 68% of marketers say they plan events too close to the date to maximise results. (Source: EventMB) ### 3. Your Pipeline Problem Isn’t Volume - It’s Direction Many teams are busy, not effective. More leads, more content, more outreach but little conversion. Why? Because activity ≠ strategy. Without proper segmentation, buyer journey mapping, and aligned messaging, most efforts feel like shouting into the void. Marketers who document their strategy are **313%** more likely to report success. (Source: CoSchedule) So, what now? Here’s the brutal truth: if you wait until Q4 to fix this, it’s already too late. But you don’t need to tear everything up. ✅ **Revisit your GTM and event strategy.** ✅ **Align marketing and sales on what “qualified” really means.** ✅ **Focus your time and budget on fewer, higher-impact channels.** ✅ **Don’t just “do events” - use them as a strategic lever for pipeline.** Need help refocusing your event or marketing strategy before the year runs away from you? Let’s chat. Book a free consultation with the Yo Marketing team.. Together, we’ll design a plan that delivers ROI - not regrets. [![Schedule a free strategy session today](https://8pfraw1pqsd9gr2m.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/cta/schedule%20a%20free%20strategy%20session%20today-71nxI8IjipsNWn5HZlezFcxibVvXHd.png)](/contact/)

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Event Planning: Lessons from The Apprentice: Avoiding Chaos, Cringe, and Catastrophe

By Sarah Taylor, Yo Marketing Agency Head of Global Events ### What The Apprentice Can Teach Us About Planning Events (Hint: What Not to Do!) Every year, The Apprentice returns with a fresh batch of hopefuls, questionable business plans, and eyebrow-raising catchphrases. And every year, we, the viewers, shout at the TV as they fumble through tasks that any competent marketer or event planner could have aced with their eyes closed. But if you peel back the drama and dodgy sales pitches, The Apprentice is actually a goldmine of “how NOT to run an event.” So, let’s take a look at what it teaches us (often the hard way) about event planning. ### Strategy Isn’t Optional, It's the Starting Line The classic mistake? Charging headfirst into a task with zero strategy. In event planning, this is like booking a venue, caterer, and keynote before deciding on your target audience or event objective. Just like on The Apprentice, it ends in chaos and a boardroom showdown. **Lesson**: Strategy first. Always. Know your audience, your goal, and your metrics for success before you even pick up the phone. ### Everyone Thinks They’re the Project Manager One of the joys of The Apprentice is watching ten people all try to lead at the same time; usually by talking over each other. Events need collaboration, yes, but they also need clear roles, responsibilities, and someone steering the ship. **Lesson:** Choose your event lead wisely. Define roles early. No one needs three people arguing over canapé choices the night before. ### Branding Blunders Are Painfully Real Remember that task where the candidates had to brand a cruise and came up with names like "Bouji Cruises" or logos that looked like clip art from 1997? Yeah. We’ve all seen events fall flat because the brand experience didn’t resonate or felt half-baked. **Lesson**: Strong branding = cohesive, memorable events. Invest the time to get it right, from your invite to your follow-up email. ### Ignoring Feedback? Fatal Whether it’s a focus group flat-out telling them the idea doesn’t work or a client asking for a pivot, candidates on The Apprentice often nod politely…and then carry on regardless. **Lesson**: In events, feedback is gold. Post-event surveys, client check-ins, even team debriefs; they’re all essential to doing it better next time. ### Overpromising = Under-delivering Who could forget the times when the candidates promised luxury and delivered…a lukewarm buffet in a drafty hall? Setting expectations too high (without the plan to meet them) only ever leads to disappointment. **Lesson**: Be realistic, be clear, and always have a backup plan. Under-promise, over-deliver, your attendees will thank you. ### Final Thought Watching The Apprentice is entertaining because it’s messy, unpredictable, and often hilariously wrong. But when it comes to planning successful events? Leave the drama on the telly. Get your strategy tight, your team aligned, and your execution flawless. Because unlike on The Apprentice, there’s no boardroom safety net if your event flops. Planning an event that actually lands? We do the exact opposite of what you see on The Apprentice; with strategy, structure, and zero chaos. **If you're ready to deliver an event that wows your audience (without the cringe factor) let's chat.** [![Schedule a free strategy session today](https://8pfraw1pqsd9gr2m.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/cta/schedule%20a%20free%20strategy%20session%20today-71nxI8IjipsNWn5HZlezFcxibVvXHd.png)](/contact/)

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Confessions of a Webinar Marketer: Staying Calm When the WiFi Drops

By Sarah Taylor, Yo Marketing Agency Head of Global Events ...by someone who’s mastered the art of presenting to 300 people while wearing pyjama bottoms. Welcome back to part two of our "Confessions of..." series. After tackling the [chaos of live events](https://yomarketing.agency/blogs/confessions-of-an-event-planner-true-stories-survival-tips-and-why-we-answer-emails-at-midnight/), we’re heading into the wonderful world of webinars - where your internet connection is your lifeline, engagement is everything, and no one ever unmutes when they should. From the outside, webinars might seem like the easy option. No venue, no catering, no taxis for keynote speakers. But don’t be fooled: what webinars lack in logistics, they make up for in live-stream pressure and relentless multitasking. Here's what really goes on: ### 1. Tech Checks Are Never Just a Formality "Can everyone hear me?" should not be the first line of your session. We run dry runs, backup slides, and have at least three ways to troubleshoot sound, screen shares, and video fails. And yes, someone will still forget to unmute. ### 2. Engagement Isn’t a Bonus - It’s the Goal People drop off webinars fast. If you’re not delivering value or interaction in the first five minutes, they’re gone. Polls, chat, Q&A, breakouts; we use them all. Because passive viewing doesn’t equal pipeline. ### 3. Speaker Management Is Its Own Skillset Some speakers bring their A-game. Others need coaching, coaxing, and a nudge to stay on message. We handle run-throughs, talking points, and keeping the 20-minute slot from turning into 40. ### 4. Registrations Mean Nothing Without Follow-Up A 1,000-person sign-up looks great on paper, but real value comes from conversion. Who attended? Who engaged? Who asked the key question that shows intent? Follow-up strategy is where the ROI lives. ### 5. It’s Virtual, But It’s Still a Show Lighting, framing, tone, pace, timing - it all matters. A dull delivery in a messy room with echoey audio? No thanks. Webinars might be remote, but the standards are high. A good webinar doesn’t just inform. It connects, engages, and converts. When done right, it's one of the most powerful tools in the B2B marketer's playbook. Stay tuned for the final part of our "Confessions of..." series: podcasts, because what sounds simple on air is anything but behind the scenes. Looking to deliver standout webinars that engage, convert, and actually generate results? At Yo Marketing, we take care of everything; from strategy and speaker prep to promotion and follow-up. Let’s make your next webinar unmissable! [![Schedule a free strategy session today](https://8pfraw1pqsd9gr2m.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/cta/schedule%20a%20free%20strategy%20session%20today-71nxI8IjipsNWn5HZlezFcxibVvXHd.png)](/contact/)

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Confessions of an Event Planner: True Stories, Survival Tips, and Why We Answer Emails at Midnight

By Sarah Taylor, Yo Marketing Agency Head of Global Events …by someone who has survived it all (and still answers emails at midnight) In the first in our “Confessions of…” series; a three-part peek behind the curtain of modern marketing experiences. We’re kicking off with live events, then diving into webinars and finally podcasts because each format comes with its own brand of beautiful chaos. Let me start with a confession: event planning is a bit like hosting a dinner party for 500 people…while simultaneously putting out fires (sometimes literally), soothing egos, and somehow looking like you planned for the projector to die five minutes before the keynote. There’s a lot that people don’t see behind the curtain; and that’s the point. A good event should feel effortless to the attendee. But here’s what really goes down: ### 1. We’re Calm on the Surface, Chaos Beneath I’ve smiled through delayed deliveries, VIP no-shows, and once, a power outage just as the CEO took the stage. Pro tip: always have a backup plan - and then a backup for your backup. ### 2. My Tech Stack Is My Safety Net Budgets, schedules, registrations, and real-time updates; all managed across event platforms, collaborative dashboards, and automation tools. If it’s not integrated and cloud-based, it doesn’t make the cut. Tech keeps the chaos contained (mostly). ### 3. No, the WiFi Is Never Strong Enough Some venues swear their WiFi can handle 200 delegates and a live stream. Not true. Always test it. Then test it again. Then pack your own ‘MiFi’ just in case. ### 4. Food and Drink Make or Break an Event You can have world-class speakers and flawless production, but if the coffee’s cold or the canapés are scarce, people will talk. Always over-cater. No one ever complained about too many mini pastries. ### 5. Your Network Is Everything From the AV guy who saves your life when the mic dies, to the florist who pulls off a last-minute miracle, relationships matter. Be kind. Say thank you. Send wine. ### 6. You Will Always Forget Something A cable. A name badge. Your sanity. The trick is to make it look like you meant to do it. Improvisation is part of the job. That said, this is another time when you tap into your network of beautiful contacts. ### 7. It’s Exhausting - But Addictive Despite the stress, the 5am starts, and the late-night dismantles, there’s a real buzz when it all comes together. That moment when the lights dim, the music hits, and the event begins? Magic. So, next time you’re at a slick, well-run event just know there’s someone in running shoes sprinting behind the scenes, praying the mics hold out and that the keynote doesn’t go rogue. We don’t just plan events. We orchestrate experiences - and we secretly love every minute of it. Need help bringing your next event to life? Whether it’s virtual, hybrid, or in-person at Yo Marketing we design, deliver, and optimise corporate events that do more than just impress; they drive results. [![Schedule a free strategy session today](https://8pfraw1pqsd9gr2m.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/cta/schedule%20a%20free%20strategy%20session%20today-71nxI8IjipsNWn5HZlezFcxibVvXHd.png)](/contact/)

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Webinar Stats That Matter: How to Turn Metrics into Action

By Sarah Taylor, Yo Marketing Agency Head of Global Events [Webinars are one of the most versatile tools](https://yomarketing.agency/blogs/why-cmos-love-webinars-the-secret-weapon-in-modern-b2b-marketing/) in a marketer’s playbook. But the real value comes after the event ends in how you follow up with your audience. Too often, all registrants get lumped into the same “thanks for registering” or “watch the replay” funnel. And that’s a huge missed opportunity. The way your audience interacts with your webinar, or doesn’t gives you real signals about where they are in the buyer journey. Your follow-up strategy should reflect that. Our latest infographic helps you benchmark and boost your webinar engagement for maximum audience impact: ![Yo Marketing Agency Infographic: Understand Webinar Stats](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/kvacqa9c/production/97a11c4e6567864983a2629725d2fdd9c946e348-1050x3750.png) Let’s unpack the stats and explore how to turn these insights into actionable marketing strategies that move leads forward. ### 35% Attend Live: Maximise Real-Time Intent This group has shown the highest level of interest and intent. They planned, prioritised, and showed up in real time. These are warm leads, and they’re closer to a buying decision than most. #### Strategic follow-up: **Create a tiered engagement score based on session behaviour:** time spent, questions asked, resources clicked. The more engaged they were, the faster they should be routed to your sales team. **Use dynamic content in your follow-up emails.** For example, if they asked a question about pricing, send them a comparison guide or ROI calculator. **Don’t let the trail go cold**, follow up within 24 - 48 hours with personalised outreach or value-added content like an invite to an advanced webinar or product demo. This isn’t just follow-up; this is your chance to [fast-track deals](https://yomarketing.agency/blogs/the-power-of-the-sales-appointment-why-quality-beats-quantity-in-business-development/). ### 45% Register But Don’t Show Up: Don’t Dismiss the No-Shows They showed intent but didn’t attend. That’s not a failure; it’s a second chance. #### Strategic follow-up: **Build a re-engagement funnel specifically for no-shows.** Start with an empathy-led email (“We get it, life’s busy…”) that includes a short-form replay, key takeaways, and an invitation to chat or access a condensed resource. **Retarget these leads** with a [dynamic email or ad campaign](https://yomarketing.agency/blogs/cold-email-outreach-your-strategic-playbook-for-business-development-success/) highlighting the core value proposition of the session they missed. **Use this group as a testbed:** trial different time slots, titles, and reminder methods for future sessions. This can help improve your attendance rate over time. You’re not chasing ghosts, you’re just meeting busy professionals where they are. ### 15% Watch On-Demand: Respect Their Schedule, Keep Them Warm These leads are still high-value; they’re just engaging on their own terms. And if someone chooses to watch after the fact, they’re often more focused and self-directed. #### Strategic follow-up: **Map the on-demand content into your broader nurture journey.** Based on what they watched (and for how long), tailor the next step. Did they watch a product demo? Invite them to a case study session. Did they focus on the intro only? Share a foundational resource or blog. **Combine on-demand behaviour with other data** (e.g. website visits, email clicks) to refine lead scores and personalise outreach. **Consider offering “on-demand-only” events** with exclusive Q&A recordings or downloadable extras to reward this behaviour. Don’t treat this like a backup audience, it’s a high-intent segment hiding in plain sight. ### 5% Don’t Engage At All: Low Intent, But Not a Lost Cause This group is the trickiest. They registered but didn’t show up or watch the replay. It’s easy to ignore them - but with the right strategy, you might bring them back into play. #### Strategic follow-up: **Set a lightweight, low-cost drip campaign** (three emails max) that invites them to related content or future events. **Watch for trends.** Are they serial registrants who never engage? Are they from the wrong ICP? Use this insight to clean your list or re-segment it for future targeting. **You can also A/B test** re-engagement ads or social nudges to see if they just needed a different angle. Use this data to improve your targeting but don’t over-invest unless you see signals worth chasing. ### The Bottom Line: One Webinar, Many Journeys Over half your webinar registrants won’t attend live, and that’s okay. The real opportunity is in how you respond to their behaviour. #### Smart marketing doesn’t stop at the webinar. It evolves based on audience signals. Tailor your post-event strategy like this: **Live attendees** get accelerated into personalised nurture or sales outreach **No-shows** get re-engaged through value-driven replays and behavioural nudges **On-demand viewers** get follow-up content that deepens their journey based on interest **Unengaged leads** are filtered or re-routed to lower-cost nurture streams This is how you take one webinar and create four intelligent pathways, all rooted in behaviour, not assumption. And this is how you stop webinars from being “just another event” and start turning them into pipeline-generating machines. #### Ready to build webinar strategies that convert, not just collect leads? Yo Marketing helps brands map webinars to the funnel, capture intent data, and turn post-event engagement into measurable revenue. Let’s make your next webinar work harder - not just look good. 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Why CMOs Love Webinars: The Secret Weapon in Modern B2B Marketing

By Sarah Taylor, Yo Marketing Agency Head of Global Events When CMOs are asked to name their top-performing channels for lead generation, webinars consistently land in the top three. And it’s not just a trend; it’s a strategic shift. In a landscape oversaturated with emails, paid ads, and static content, webinars offer something rare: real-time engagement with intent-rich audiences - a crucial element for [achieving sustainable growth beyond just counting leads](https://yomarketing.agency/blogs/why-demand-generation-is-key-to-sustainable-growth-and-how-to-move-beyond-just-counting-leads/). Webinars are no longer just a brand-building tool, they’re serious lead converters. Research shows that the average webinar conversion rate is 20–40%, with some B2B companies reporting up to 55% of attendees turning into qualified leads. That’s miles ahead of most digital channels. In fact, a recent study by ON24 revealed that 73% of B2B marketers say webinars are the best way to generate high-quality leads, and CMOs are taking note, ranking webinars firmly in their top 3 channels for driving pipeline. [You can explore more current data points in our look at the state of webinars and key trends.](https://yomarketing.agency/blogs/the-state-of-webinars-in-2025-key-trends-shaping-the-future-of-engagement-and-how-to-capitalize/) In a noisy digital world, webinars deliver something rare: real-time engagement with high-intent audiences. #### So, why exactly do CMOs love them? Let’s break it down. **1. Webinars Attract High-Intent Leads** People don’t sign up for a 30–45 minute session on a whim. The very act of registering, let alone attending, shows a level of curiosity and commitment that most channels can't match. For CMOs, that’s gold. These attendees are often mid-funnel prospects actively looking for solutions, making them far easier to nurture into a pipeline. **2. Rich First-Party Data Webinars** are a data goldmine. From registration forms to live polling, Q&A, and post-event surveys; every interaction is trackable. CMOs know this data can feed directly into CRMs, fuel lead scoring models, and even inform product messaging and sales outreach. **3. Repurposable Content Machine** One 45-minute webinar = ✔️ 1 blog post recap ✔️ 3–5 social snippets ✔️ 1 gated on-demand asset ✔️ Multiple nurture email touchpoints ✔️ Quotes for sales enablement decks CMOs love this kind of ROI. It turns a single live session into a multi-touch campaign with minimal extra lift, embodying the principles of [effective content repurposing to maximize reach](https://yomarketing.agency/blogs/squeeze-every-drop-how-to-repurpose-content-for-maximum-impact/). **4. Real-Time Customer Connection** Webinars create the kind of two-way engagement that static content can’t. They’re a space where brands can speak with their audience, not just at them. This builds trust and credibility especially when speakers include customers, partners, or subject matter experts. **5. Scalable and Cost-Effective** Compared to in-person events or high-budget ad campaigns, webinars are efficient. While large-scale [impactful events have their place in a go-to-market strategy](https://yomarketing.agency/blogs/supercharge-your-go-to-market-strategy-with-impactful-events-plus-a-7-step-planning-checklist/), webinars offer an attractive cost-per-lead whether you're targeting 50 decision-makers or 500. Plus, the shift to on-demand formats extends their shelf life and reach. CMOs aren't just using webinars because they’re trendy, they’re using them because they work. They bridge the gap between brand storytelling and performance marketing, helping teams engage the right audiences at the right time with the right message. If webinars aren’t a staple in your lead gen strategy yet, it might be time to reconsider. The CMOs already doing it well are reaping the rewards. #### Ready to make webinars work harder for your business? At Yo! Marketing, we tailor our expertise to meet your unique goals, whether you're new to webinars or ready to take them to the next level. Get in touch with our friendly team today to schedule a free consultation with our in-house webinar guru. Let’s turn your next session into a lead-gen powerhouse. [![Schedule a free strategy session today](https://8pfraw1pqsd9gr2m.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/cta/schedule%20a%20free%20strategy%20session%20today-71nxI8IjipsNWn5HZlezFcxibVvXHd.png)](/contact/)

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When Events Go Wrong: The Real Cost of Poor Planning (And How to Get It Right)

By Sarah Taylor, Yo Marketing Agency Head of Global Events Events can be a game-changer for your brand — when they’re done right. From polished trade show booths to high-impact roundtables, they’re a chance to connect, convert, and create meaningful experiences. But let’s not sugar-coat it: events can also be a disaster. If you’ve ever scrambled to find branded pens minutes before a show opens, watched attendees glaze over during an awkward roundtable, or chased down leads with missing contact info, you already know — when events go wrong, they go really wrong. Let’s dig into what typically derails an event and how Yo Marketing helps you sidestep the chaos, eliminate stress, and deliver with confidence. #### 1. Disjointed Planning & Last-Minute Mayhem It starts small: a spreadsheet here, a Slack message there. But before you know it, deadlines are missed, responsibilities are unclear, and your event planning has turned into a chaotic scramble. Too often, internal teams are expected to juggle event planning on top of their day jobs. No one really owns the project, and suddenly there are 17 versions of the same checklist floating around. That’s a recipe for disaster. **How Yo Marketing fixes it:** We run events like a military op — without the stress. You get a dedicated team managing the end-to-end process with detailed timelines, clear ownership, and bulletproof logistics. We become your extended team, keeping everything (and everyone) on track. #### 2. Bad Branding = A Bad First Impression At a tradeshow, you’ve got seconds to grab someone’s attention. If your stand graphics are pixelated, poorly lit, or cluttered with confusing messaging, people will walk right past. It’s not just an eyesore — it makes your brand look second-rate. In more intimate settings like roundtables, your visual materials and presentation flow matter just as much. Dated slides, clunky tech, or underwhelming assets will instantly dull your impact. **How Yo Marketing fixes it:** Our creative team ensures everything — from booth design and collateral to branded name tags and presentations — looks premium, consistent, and on-brand. We elevate your presence visually and make sure your brand is memorable for the right reasons. #### 3. Poor Lead Capture = Wasted Budget You’ve invested in the space, travel, content, speakers… and yet somehow walk away with a handful of leads written on napkins (or worse, not at all). Without a strategy to attract, qualify, and follow up with prospects, your ROI takes a nosedive. **How Yo Marketing fixes it:** We bake lead gen into the event plan from day one. Whether it’s digital QR sign-ups, live capture forms, or post-event nurture campaigns, we ensure you collect high-quality data that turns into real business opportunities. #### 4. Forgettable Experiences (That No One Talks About After) A tradeshow might be busy — but is it engaging? A roundtable might be well-attended — but is it meaningful? When events feel flat, forced, or forgettable, they fade fast. People remember standout experiences, not sales pitches. If there’s no clear purpose, no spark, or no facilitation, your attendees will mentally check out (and probably not return). **How Yo Marketing fixes it:** We build experiences that resonate. For tradeshows, we inject interactive elements that draw people in. For roundtables, we help you create tailored, value-led conversations that spark dialogue and build relationships. We handle everything from agenda shaping to moderation and follow-up. #### 5. Internal Burnout & Lost Productivity Event planning is a full-time job. When it’s lumped onto already-stretched marketing or sales teams, something’s gotta give. Important details fall through the cracks, morale dips, and core business tasks suffer. **How Yo Marketing fixes it:** We take the pressure off your internal teams completely. Our events specialists, project managers, designers, and campaign leads become your event SWAT team — so your staff can focus on being present, not panicked. #### Why Yo Marketing? At Yo Marketing, we don’t just plan events — we engineer experiences that work. With a deep bench of experts across strategy, content, creative, and operations, we bring structure, polish, and impact to every stage of your event journey. **Whether it’s a trade show in Vegas or a roundtable in London, we deliver:** ✔️ Stress-free logistics and timeline management ✔️ High-impact creative and stand design ✔️ Audience acquisition and content strategy ✔️ Seamless on-site or virtual event execution ✔️ Lead capture, CRM integration, and post-event reporting ✔️ A calm, capable team you can actually rely on #### Let’s Make Your Next Event Exceptional If you’re ready to ditch the panic and deliver events that not only run smoothly but move the needle, we’re ready to help. Reach out to our team and let’s make your next event one to remember — for all the right reasons and here’s why… #### Big Enough to Deliver, Small Enough to Care We work with businesses of all sizes—from ambitious startups to established enterprises. What they have in common is the need for marketing support that’s agile, smart, and results-driven. That’s what we do best. If you’re looking for a marketing partner that feels like an extension of your own team—without the overhead—yomarketing.agency is ready to get to work. [![Schedule a free strategy session today](https://8pfraw1pqsd9gr2m.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/cta/schedule%20a%20free%20strategy%20session%20today-71nxI8IjipsNWn5HZlezFcxibVvXHd.png)](/contact/)

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Supercharge Your Go-To-Market Strategy with Impactful Events (Plus, a 7-Step Planning Checklist!)

By Sarah Taylor, Yo Marketing Agency Head of Global Events In today's competitive landscape, a robust go-to-market (GTM) strategy is essential for businesses looking to launch new products, expand their reach, and drive growth. While digital marketing and content creation play vital roles, incorporating strategic events into your GTM mix can provide unparalleled opportunities for engagement, brand building, and lead generation. #### Why Events Are a Game-Changer for Your GTM Strategy Events, whether in-person or virtual, offer a unique platform to connect with your target audience on a deeper level. They allow you to: **Create Immersive Brand Experiences:** Go beyond static marketing materials and showcase your brand's personality and values through interactive experiences. **Generate High-Quality Leads:** Engage with potential customers directly, build relationships, and gather valuable data. **Drive Product Demonstrations:** Offer hands-on experiences and highlight the benefits of your products or services. **Foster Community and Loyalty:** Create a sense of belonging among your audience and strengthen customer relationships. **Gain Valuable Feedback:** Gather real-time insights and refine your offerings based on direct interactions. #### The 7-Step Event Planning Checklist: Your Roadmap to Success However, planning a successful event requires meticulous attention to detail. To help you navigate the process, we've created a comprehensive 7-step checklist, designed to ensure your events are not only memorable but also contribute significantly to your GTM goals. ![Yo Marketing Infographic: Ultimate 7-Step Event Planning Checklist](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/kvacqa9c/production/41dc136ba451ccba665a88f8fbc3df279e08a1cf-700x2500.png) As you can see, each stage of the event planning process is crucial for achieving a seamless and impactful experience. From initial planning and program development to post-event follow-up, a well-structured approach is key. #### How Yo Marketing Can Elevate Your Event and GTM Strategy While this checklist provides a solid foundation, partnering with experienced professionals can significantly enhance your event's success. At Yo Marketing, we understand the intricacies of event planning and how to align them with your overarching GTM strategy. We can help you: **Develop a cohesive event strategy** that aligns with your business objectives. **Create engaging event experiences** that resonate with your target audience. **Leverage events to generate high-quality leads** and drive conversions. **Measure the impact of your events** and optimize your GTM strategy for maximum ROI. **Extend the value of each event** to increase Customer Lifetime Value (CLTV) through sustained engagement, follow-ups, and nurturing opportunities. #### Ready to integrate impactful events into your go-to-market strategy? Don't let the complexities of event planning hold you back. Let Yo Marketing help you create memorable experiences that drive results. **Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how we can elevate your GTM strategy with strategic events.** [![Schedule a free strategy session today](https://8pfraw1pqsd9gr2m.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/cta/schedule%20a%20free%20strategy%20session%20today-71nxI8IjipsNWn5HZlezFcxibVvXHd.png)](/contact/)

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The State of Webinars in 2025: Key Trends Shaping the Future of Engagement (and How to Capitalize)

By Sarah Taylor, Yo Marketing Agency Head of Global Events The marketing landscape is constantly evolving, but one thing remains clear: webinars continue to be a powerful tool for engagement, lead generation, and brand building. At Yo Marketing, we're always keeping a pulse on the latest trends, and recent data paints a compelling picture of the webinar's enduring – and growing – importance. We recently compiled some key statistics into an infographic (see below) to highlight the current state of webinars. Let's break down what these insights mean for marketers and how you can leverage them for success: ![Yo Marketing Infographic: Webinar Power](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/kvacqa9c/production/0257d4a3c1ed649b651c16524566bcdfe129a34e-700x2500.png) #### Key Takeaways from the Infographic (and What They Mean for You): **1. Webinars Are Essential (Not Optional):** The infographic shows that a staggering 95% of marketers are using webinars. This isn't a niche tactic anymore; it's a core component of a comprehensive marketing strategy. If you're not actively incorporating webinars, you're likely missing out on a significant opportunity to connect with your target audience. **2. A Top Channel for Qualified Leads:** 80% of marketers identify webinars as a top channel for generating qualified leads. This underscores the power of webinars to attract prospects who are genuinely interested in your solutions and ready to engage. Webinars allow for direct interaction, Q&A, and personalized content delivery, all of which contribute to higher-quality leads. **3. Engagement Tactics are Prioritized:** Nearly 60% of demand generation marketers recognize webinars as a top-of-funnel engagement tactic. This highlights the importance of using webinars early in the customer journey to educate, build trust, and establish your brand as a thought leader. **4. Integration is Key:** The fact that 74% of companies integrate webinars into their sales cycles for prospect engagement shows that webinars aren't just for awareness. They play a crucial role throughout the sales process, nurturing leads and facilitating conversions. **5. AI is Changing the Game:** The infographic points to the growing adoption of AI in webinar strategies, with 70% of marketers planning to use generative AI. This is a game-changer. AI can help with everything from content creation and personalized recommendations to automated follow-up and improved engagement analytics. The projected increase in attendance (15%) and conversion rates (10%) with AI integration is significant. **6. Length Matters:** The data indicates that 60-minute webinars are more popular than shorter formats. This suggests that audiences are craving more in-depth, valuable content. It's a shift away from quick soundbites and towards more substantial learning experiences. ### Turning Insights into Action: How Yo Marketing Can Help These trends clearly demonstrate that webinars are more vital than ever. But simply hosting a webinar isn't enough. To maximize your ROI, you need a strategic approach that encompasses: **Compelling Content:** Creating engaging, informative content that addresses your audience's needs and pain points. **Strategic Promotion:** Reaching the right audience through targeted marketing campaigns. **Seamless Execution:** Delivering a flawless webinar experience, from registration to follow-up. **Data-Driven Optimization:** Tracking key metrics and using data to continuously improve your webinar strategy. **AI Integration:** Staying up-to-date on, and being one of the first to utilize the latest webinar strategies. At Yo Marketing, we're experts in all aspects of webinar strategy and execution. Our [Events & Webinar Services](https://https://yomarketing.agency/services/events-and-webinar-services/) are designed to help you leverage the power of webinars to achieve your specific business goals. Whether you need help with: • Developing a comprehensive webinar strategy • Creating high-impact content and presentations • Managing webinar logistics and production • Promoting your webinars to your target audience • Analyzing webinar performance and identifying areas for improvement • Leveraging AI strategies for your webinars We can help. We understand the nuances of the webinar landscape, as illustrated by the trends highlighted in our infographic. We're committed to staying ahead of the curve and delivering cutting-edge solutions that drive results. Ready to elevate your webinar game? [Schedule a free strategy session](https://yomarketing.agency/contact/) today, and let's discuss how we can help you harness the power of webinars to achieve your marketing objectives. [![Schedule a free strategy session today](https://8pfraw1pqsd9gr2m.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/cta/schedule%20a%20free%20strategy%20session%20today-71nxI8IjipsNWn5HZlezFcxibVvXHd.png)](/contact/)

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