If you are starting out as a corporate events planner, one of your main priorities will be growing your business. Fortunately, you already have two things going for you.
As an events planner you are probably a naturally social person so networking should come easy. It’s also lucky that you are living in the age of technology where people can promote their business with a high ROI.
With that in mind, here are some of the best practices in corporate event planning that will help you grow your business.
Network, Network, Network: An event planner should always have a list of vendors readily available. These will include caterers, live music entertainment companies, florists, bakers, photographers and more.
It is easy to work with vendors to grow your business. If you continually use them at your events, let them know that you are looking for customers as well.
The majority of a vendor’s clientele are people who are hosting events. If anyone comes in that is particularly stressed out from pre event planning, they can refer them to your services.
Conferences and word of mouth can also be great for networking but this you scratch my back I’ll scratch yours type of relationship is very effective.
Social Media: Social media is a great way to promote any business. You can create a business page, make free posts or use social media tools to make inexpensive ads that you can customize to attract your target audience.
Direct Mail: Technology may be king, but don’t underestimate the power of direct mail. You can use direct mail to send out brochures that let people know a bit about your business. Be sure to include a business card as well as pictures of any successful events your corporate event management team may have pulled off in the past.
Reviews and References: Great customer service is a very important part of corporate event planning best practices. If your customers are satisfied with the service they received, encourage them to put a review on a site like Yelp or Google. You can also put testimonials directly on your web site.
Magazines and Newspapers: Some publications are online and some are offline, but either way, a printed ad can be very effective in catching someone’s eye. Go for magazines and newspapers that are related to the hospitality industry to be sure you are reaching your target audience.
Business Card: Business cards are another way you can effectively advertise your business. Unlike computers, business cards offer a personal touch. They also show you are professional and prepared and they give potential clients a strong initial impression of your brand.
If you are starting an event planning business, the first item on your event planning guide checklist should be helping your business to grow. Luckily, your outgoing personality and modern technology make a great marketing team. We wish you the best of luck in your endeavors.