The IdeenExpo 2019
A template for success that capitalises on young talent
Robot arms, experiments with rubber, and design approaches: At the seventh iteration of the IdeenExpo in Hanover, there was once again plenty for visitors to see and try for themselves. Between 15th and 23rd June 2019, more than 395,000 people converged upon the exhibition centre in order to gain a fresh and exciting new perspective on science and technology. With its unique slant, the event is very popular amongst young people.
We were on hand this year with three small contributions of our own, designed to pique attendees‘ curiosity and awaken their interest in technical subjects and careers in science. It was a fantastic opportunity to position ourselves firmly on the radar of the skilled workers of the future.
The finer details
Since 2007, the Messegelände Hannover (Hanover exhibition centre) has been transformed every other year into the world‘s biggest classroom. The focus is not so much on imparting knowledge as it is on inspiring visitors and firing them with new-found enthusiasm.
Fun and variety are the tools deployed to spark young people‘s interest in science and engineering. Participatory exhibits, interactive activities, live experiments, stage shows and workshops leave more of an impression than any school textbook ever could. In essence, that is exactly what IdeenExpo‘s motto is all about: „Try it, experience it, join in“.
And with all this fun comes the added bonus of some excellent career inspiration. Through IdeenExpo, industries and companies have found a way to meet young people and win them over. The unique, relaxed atmosphere allows people to interact face to face as equals. And it provides us with an excellent opportunity to position ourselves early on as somewhere they might like to take up an apprenticeship later on.
nass magnet and IdeenExpo
In summer 2018, we too were won over by the concept of this trade fair. After some intense discussions with representatives of IdeenExpo, we were sure that we wanted to get on board for 2019.
The key to taking part is always to have well-designed exhibits. They must be eye-catching and inspiring, but they must also represent the company. But with the large number of exciting exhibitors, it quickly became apparent that we would not be able to put together anything suitable in such a short space of time. So we decided that, rather than hastily cobbling together a sub-par exhibit, we would rather channel our current ideas into planning our appearance at the 2021 event.
To this end, in 2019 we have undertaken a multitude of small projects to showcase our talents.
- ScrollDoku
School collaboration project in the form of an interactive online experience
- Collaboration with PS.Speicher
Sponsorship, loan of vintage vehicles, advertising
- Participation in the joint metal and electrical engineering industry exhibit
Publicising the company using apprentices as our ambassadors and presenting our training and career opportunities
- Visit from the „nass magnet delegation“
Assessment by decision-makers from the Employer Branding programme
The trade fair from nass magnet‘s perspective
This year, we sent our apprentices to IdeenExpo to be the public face of our company. As company ambassadors, they talked about their time at nass magnet and the career opportunities we offer; they also reported back their impressions and insights once it was all over.
They verified that the trade fair was well attended. Participatory activities seemed to be particularly popular and always attracted long queues. Yet there was one target group that proved harder to win over. Many visitors, especially the younger ones, had come with their school. We need to do much more to catch their attention and capture their imagination.
As for our apprentices, they thoroughly enjoyed the event – and not just because of the delicious food that was laid on for them! They were able to meet other apprentices and swap stories. The highlight for them was the exhibits, however, as the trade fair was essentially a careers-based amusement park.
Preparations for 2021
One trade fair ends and another begins: Preparations are already under way for our participation in IdeenExpo 2021. Our aim is to wow visitors at the next event with our own stand and exhibit. To make sure that we effectively reach our target audience, future apprentices, our current apprentices will be heavily involved in the planning process. Up until IdeenExpo 2021, they will work with the different departments to develop and perfect their concept. We can reveal one thing already: The ideas for the exhibit are looking very promising!
Raphael Laschke
Marketing, nass magnet GmbH
