There are a lot of different types of events that an event manager can come across. Some of which are the most frequently requested and most common events that clients usually want to plan for. Management and planning for such events vary.
Here are the top 5 corporate events that event managers should know how to plan for.
- Team Building
Team building events are meant to develop and encourage employees in companies. These events are perfect for companies to encourage their employees and help them work together as a team through certain games or exercises.
Event managers must consider certain things when planning for team building events. First, some activities require physical strength, so the planner should check on the participants whether they will be capable of such activities. There are other team building exercises that do not require physical activities that can still build trust and enhance relationships with the team.
Second, team building activities may require an outdoor venue. You can check out venues that can accommodate the team. You may have to consider travel costs if the venue is in another city. For indoor activities that are simple, you can check out your office for conference rooms or look for convention halls nearby to host the event.
Third, you also need to consider the day when the event will be held. Participating in the team building event means they will be away from their work which may affect productivity. Try to schedule it on days where they don’t have to work and if they are willing to.
Lastly, make sure goals are set. The team building event is set to motivate employees and increase their productivity and encourage them to work as a team.
- Conferences
This event is one of the most important events that event managers plan for. There are some things that event managers should take into consideration when planning for this type of event.
First is the location. Conferences are usually held in meeting rooms in hotels or large convention halls, depending on the number of participants. You must also consider the proximity of the location to the most number of participants for the event.
Next is the cost. Some companies do not have much budget for conferences, some even cancel these events. You can check and look for venues that can offer better rates. Event managers should also check if there will be any need for accommodations. Check if there are enough hotels for the attendees and help them arrange that. And last but definitely not the least, event managers should always make sure everything in the conference room or venue is set. If there is a need for a screen projector, it should already be set up. Sound system, seating arrangement, and decorations for the event should also be set up properly.
- Seminars
Planning for seminars should start several months prior to the event. You need to look for a keynote speaker that is a perfect fit for your target audience. You also need to book a venue for the event. The location will depend on the estimated number of attendees. You also need to consider if the seminar will be for free or will there be a registration fee to participate in such event.
Make sure your audio-visual equipment is all set and you must have a contingency plan if in case there will be problems with the projector or the sound system. Set up a registration area and also include some snacks for the event.
- Trade Shows
Trade shows are important for companies to showcase their products and interact with its consumers. When planning for such event, planners can start by looking at the local community calendar for expos. Look for expos where the company can participate and present their product. You can also reach out to the local chamber of commerce since most chambers host business exhibitions.
One thing that should be considered when it comes to trade shows is its cost. Trade shows can be quite expensive since you must pay for the booth where you want to exhibit your products. Always keep in mind if participating in such will help enhance your marketing and check if it’s worth the investment.
- Business Dinners
Business dinners can be used to celebrate a company’s milestone, or for introduction of new management, or conclude fiscal years. Business dinners celebrate the company’s achievements and successful employees while entertaining the guests. Planning for these events usually start 6-12 months prior.
Business dinners can either be formal or relaxed, depending on what the company wants to have and depending on the company’s budget. Decorations and theme should be considered. A location should also be booked in advance.
Invitations to business dinners is a must. For formal dinners, these usually entail sophisticated letters.
This should be taken into consideration so planners will know the number of people who will be
attending the event.
Food choices should also be considered for the event. Whether it’s going to be a self-serve buffet or not, how many courses will be offered, and etc.
Entertainment for such event is important. The event manager should carefully choose professional
bands or keynote speakers to set the mood of the event.
