Tips for Speed Dating with Brands

Last fall the team at Toronto Travel Massive conducted a survey to help make our monthly meet ups better for both bloggers and brands. One of the top requests was more time for one-on-one speed dating. You asked us and we listened! So this year in 2015, we’re working to bring you more opportunities to connect with industry leaders more closely. To help you get ready for new speed dating events, we’ve compiled our best tips for getting the most out of your dates. If you have never experienced a speed dating event, read these tips. If you have suggestions or other tips, share them with the community in the comments below.

Research the brand. 

Know the brands or people behind the brands who you will be connecting with. Google search their past, present and upcoming campaigns. Find out what their marketing needs may be or brainstorm ways you can improve their business. Having knowledge of their company will impress them and it will also help you tailor your pitch to their needs and goals.

Bring business cards.

Make sure your cards include your contact info and website address.

Craft an elevator pitch.

Know who your audience is and what you can offer as a professional. Be able to describe in 30 seconds what your blog or business is about, what problem does it solve and who does it help, and what makes you or your blog unique. Practice pitching in the mirror so you get more comfortable with it.

Set your goals.

Know what you want professionally and what you want to achieve from your speed date. This will help you focus your conversation and accomplish what you set out for.

Have a media kit.

The best way to show a brand who you are, what you have done, and what you can do for them is with a media kit.  Convert your media kit to a PDF document so you can present it on the spot in one easy click with your iPad or mobile device. Talk about seizing the moment!

Follow up.

Send a thank you email after your speed date. Include something unique from your conversation to remind them of your connection.

Got any tips or tricks for mastering speed dating?

Leave your tips below!

Cristina is a TV journo turned blogger at ChasingTravel.com and a PR and social media freelancer. She is currently co-organizer of Toronto Travel Massive and Community Manager at Travel Massive Global. You can connect with her on Twitter @travelingjourno or on Facebook.