How To Throw The Perfect Corporate Event

A fantastic corporate event can help put your company on the map. Perhaps it’s a product launch event, or a homemade networking meetup. There are so many benefits to hosting your own business event. From the wonderful media attention to the networking opportunities, it’s well worth the time and effort. But, how do you make sure it’s a success? Well, we’ve thrown our fair share of big events, and we know what works.
Set a goal – Your first task it to set a series of goals and objectives for your event. No-one throws a party without an ulterior motive! Perhaps you’re looking to build company recognition and media awareness. Maybe you’re launching a new product, and you’re trying to encourage pre-orders. Perhaps it’s all about networking, and connecting with new clients or investors. Whatever your goal, make sure it influences every decision you make.
Choose a good date – The date of the event is very important, as the business calendar is usually fairly busy. Don’t ruin your event by hosting it the same day as another major industry party. Try to slot your event into a quiet period, so your guests actively look forward to attending. Make the decision early, and get your invites out with plenty of time to spare.
Logistics – The hardest part of any corporate event is the logistics and behind-the-scenes setup. We’re talking about venue hire, corporate catering, and bar service. Each of these aspects must run like clockwork, and be booked well in advance of the event. If you want our advice, give the task to your most reliable and organized team member. It’s always best if there’s one point-person for the job.
Choose the guestlist – Now for the most important point of all, choosing your guestlist. There’s little point throwing an event if you don’t invite the right people. You’re looking for the perfect mix of industry professionals, media representatives, and customers. Choose key tastemakers in the media, and tap into their networks to gain positive coverage. Take the opportunity to invite the most powerful people in your industry, and build a relationship with them.
Hire a PR company – In our experience, a PR company will always take your event to the next level. They have a contact list full of powerful and influential media people. They can get your event featured in all the right places ahead of time. They can help make it seem exclusive and exciting. They’ll also make contributions to the guest list, and help with some of the logistics.
Make it unique – Lastly, think of a unique way to present the event. Just think, industry professionals attend events almost once a week. It’s up to you to make sure your party stands out. Make sure your guests go away talking about the night. What unique thing can you add to the event to ensure everyone remembers it?
Follow this guide, and you’ll throw a fantastic, memorable corporate event. Have you got any other brilliant tips for us? We’d love to hear from you.