By, Nik Faqihah Farhanah Azam and Nor Izziani Ikram
Gombak, 29 May 2024: The Exhibition on Empowering Local Entrepreneurs in Gombak that was organized by Integrated Marketing Communication students and the Communication Students’ Association (COSA) was held today in the Human Sciences Square, at IIUM Gombak. This exhibition started from 8.00 a.m. until 5.00 p.m. in collaboration with nine local entrepreneurs.
Qq D’Bloom Florist (QQD’BF) was one of the local entrepreneurs that sold mainly flowers; fresh flowers, dried flowers, and artificial flowers. Other than that, the bouquets can also consist of a teddy bear, chocolate, and many else. They tailor make their bouquets based on what customers want.
QQD’BF is one of the local businesses that had existed longer than other businesses at the exhibition. Its aim to open this booth was to gain more profits for its business by promoting it to attain new customers. It also started its business online through WhatsApp and Instagram. QQD’BF managed to open its first booth during the IIUM Convocation because, at the time, bouquets are usually highly requested by customers for them to give to graduates. After the Convocation, it opened a physical store.
The social media accounts of QQD’BF have over 1,000 followers and have received positive support and feedback from the public, especially IIUM students. The Qq D’Bloom florist also uses Instagram and TikTok to show its products and stories. QQD’BF also participates in and organizes various events to promote and showcase its products with other customers. For example, QQD’BF joined the 39th convocation IIUM as an exhibitor, where it sold flower bouquets to graduates. QQD’BF also joined events in the Human Sciences Square where it was able to promote its products like fresh flowers, dried flowers, single stem flowers and chocolates mixed with flowers.
Promoting the booth effectively is crucial for attracting attention and driving sales. According to a representative of the integrated marketing communication group that was in charge of promoting the florist, Puteri Batrisyia Abdul Hisham, there are several key strategies to consider. The main strategy is affordability that is paramount. Offering promotions, discounts, and even freebies like flowers can entice students to visit your booth. By making your offerings accessible, you can widen your reach and attract more potential customers.
Reflecting on the booth’s performance allows for continuous improvement and adjustment. Another strategy, from the interviewee was the importance of showcasing more flowers and ensuring sufficient stock availability. This not only enhances the visual appeal of the booth but also meets the demands of potential customers. Additionally, establishing communication with the booth owner early on can streamline operations and address any logistical challenges proactively.
However, navigating the demands of managing a booth can be challenging, especially when juggling multiple commitments as a student. Time management emerges as a common struggle, highlighting the need for effective planning and prioritization. By allocating resources efficiently and leveraging available support networks, such as team members or event organizers, students can overcome these obstacles and maximize the success of their booth.
In conclusion, QQ D’Bloom Florist team successfully leveraged the Exhibition on Empowering Local Entrepreneurs to promote its products, attract customers, and drive sales. As integrated marketing communication students who helped with QQ D’Bloom’s campaign, they demonstrated resilience and innovation in navigating the demands of booth management, the owner of QQ D’Bloom and customers.***
(This article was written as a class activity for COMM2312: Basics of Writing.)
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