Discover the secrets of seamless planning and engaging event content
Are you ready to create an unforgettable business event that leaves your attendees inspired and energised?
There is a considerable appetite for face-to-face business events following a long hiatus during the pandemic. But make no mistake, successful events that run like clockwork are usually the proverbial swan. They take work.
Luckily, in our latest blog, Georgina Roffey, Centre Manager Launchpad Southend, is here to guide you through the process with friendly and enthusiastic advice.
Whether you’re planning a small intimate gathering, a networking extravaganza, or an educational panel discussion, we’ve got you covered!
Nine simple steps
- The right format – think about whether your event would work well as a smaller more intimate event, a select group of individuals with a common goal, or a large event with multiple speakers where the aim is to meet as many people as possible.
- The audience – who is your event aimed at? Think about the audience, who will benefit most from what your event will offer, there is no point pitching an event about world wide impacting sustainability to someone who is starting up a local business that is looking for advice on investment funding.
- The venue – once you know the format and the audience you can decide on the venue. Hosting an intimate event in a large space will make it feel empty and not well attended. Or if the goal is to get some social media exposure research venues with unique offers, perhaps a rooftop bar or particularly intriguing piece of artwork.
- The time – you know your format, you’ve determined your target audience and found a perfect venue; next stop is deciding what time of the day you will be holding the event. This is crucial to optimising the footfall of your event. Holding a lengthy panel discussion inside at lunchtime in a venue that has spectacular views at sunset completely misses the point and will work against you instead of for you. Some events are better held during the day, over coffee inside a room where there is little distraction.
- The content – speakers, a panel discussion or simply a chance for like minded people to get together over coffee. Are yu looking to educate or introduce? Those looking to network are less likely to sit through a lengthy presentation on a product or service. Encourage your guests to come prepared with questions if you go down the panel discussion route.
- The publicity – social media is a great tool for spreading the word, however not all platforms are suitable for all events. Think about your target audience, about the content. Is this something that will attract people who post regularly on Instagram and will share all the details with beautiful photos or would you event appeal to someone who uses LinkedIn regularly to make business connections, perhaps looking for legal or financial representation.
- The beginning – Initially it can be quite awkward, everyone has turned up but there is little conversation outside of those already established social circles. An anchor or a facilitator is a person who is there to initiate those connections, you could hire someone or do it yourself. Having name badges also helps. It may remind you of school but there is nothing worse than forgetting a new connections name right after you’ve been introduced.
- The incentive – Having a giveaway, competition or prize is a great way to encourage participation and getting your guests to stay until the end. Announce a prize at the end of the event for the person who made the most new connections, or perhaps the person presenting their products has samples for every attendee.
- The follow up – Always follow up with your guests after the event, ask for feedback and act on it. Its also a great way of reminding them of the connections they made and any other events you have planned for the future.
Now that you have the essential tips to plan a memorable and enjoyable business event, it’s time to put your plans into action! Remember, the key to a successful event lies in understanding your audience, crafting engaging content, and choosing the perfect venue and timing. But don’t worry – you don’t have to do it all alone.
At Launchpad Southend, we’re passionate about helping businesses like yours thrive. Our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way, from planning to execution, ensuring your event exceeds all expectations. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large networking extravaganza, we’ve got the expertise and resources to make it a resounding success.
The sooner you start planning the better. Get in touch today to discuss your business event ideas and let us help you turn them into reality. Together, let’s create an event that leaves a lasting impression on your attendees and propels your business towards new heights.
Get in touch with us today to find how we can help or to book a tour and discover the perfect venue.
