Arranging a corporate event or awards ceremony can be stressful to say the least. There are so many things to consider, from the venue to the catering to the guest list. How do you make sure that your event is a success? In this blog post, we will discuss some tips on how to plan, run and market your corporate event or awards ceremony.
First, you need to choose the right venue. The venue should be able to accommodate the number of guests you are expecting. It should also be convenient for your guests to get to and from the event.
Then there’s the format and duration of the event. Some might last only a short period and require a fast turnaround time whereas larger and longer events will demand an entirely different project plan to handle the different requirements for a multi-day event, exhibition or conference.
Next, you need to choose the right dates and time for your event. You want to make sure that your event does not conflict with any other major events that are happening in the area or in a similar sector.
You’ll need a plan for your delegates, speakers and attendees. How will they get to the event? Where will they stay? What are their travel arrangements?
There’s catering and facilities to think about. This might be something that the venue can assist with and whatever you choose to do, you’ll need to be aware of people’s individual requirements to keep your guests happy and properly catered for.
Many events need stands, stages and exhibition materials. These need to be designed, ordered and set up in time for the event.
Event audio visual equipment comes into play too and for custom designs or elaborate AV installations you may need to involve a specialist production company.
The commercial aspect can’t be ignored. Budgeting for an event, setting ticket prices, sponsorship plans, exhibitor sales and achieving a return on investment are all key considerations to making your event profitable.
Finally, you need to market your event. You can do this by sending out personal invitations, posting about the event on social media, digital advertising, running an event website for ticketing and even taking out ads in newspapers or magazines.
Events are all about the planning and require an incredible attention to detail to make them a success. For an Events Manager having everything ready in advance with a backup plan is essential, along with comfortable shoes!
A good corporate events agency will be able to minimise the pressures of running a smooth operation whilst making sure all of your delegates and esteemed guests have a positive experience that they’re glad to talk about and return to again in the future.
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to making your next corporate event or awards ceremony a success!