What goes into planning an event?

Running an event involves a lot of planning, preparation and expertise. You need to make sure the event runs smoothly without any logistical issues. It can be challenging to run an event with conflicting schedules and social distancing measures. A business event can bring professionals together from various industries and create a strong network using effective hybrid event ideas.

Here are few things to consider when planning your next event.

Set a goal

You need to identify your aim for this event – what you do hope to achieve? You might be looking to improve product sales, increase brand awareness or connect with other business owners. You can begin to set a series of specific objectives that will help you achieve your end goal. For example, an objective could be to have 10% more registrations than your last event. You need to formulate an action plan detailing how you will reach that extra 10%. You could use a better event app or rethink your social media strategy.  

Establish a budget

Events cost money. You need to budget for the venue, printed materials, marketing and the food and drink at the event. All of these factors can add up over time, and they might end up costing you a lot more than planned. Things will change throughout the planning process, so make sure your budget accounts for flexibility as well. 

Try to keep your budget up to date as you move through the event process. If you overspend on one factor, you may need to cut back in other areas. For example, you could spend more on a nicer venue and cut back on decoration costs.

Build a team

You need a team to help you arrange and run the event. Each team member needs to be proactive, organized and experienced in the event industry. You need someone to do the marketing and communication side of things and another to do the registration, check-ins, and admin. You will need more team members to manage the event and keep it running smoothly for larger corporate events.

Book the venue and send out invites

People are busy these days, and you need to get your event out quickly. Choose your venue and date early on so you can send out invites and get the ball rolling. People may need to book trains, hotels and arrange their work schedules around the event. You can start to shape the finer details later on, such as the food and drink served at the event. 

Business events encourage collaboration, innovation, and improvement. We have spent the last year on virtual events, and everyone could do with some in-person socializing. Branch out into face-to-face events this year and make the most out of the venue.