Networking events tend to lean towards the stuffier, more formal side of things, but if you’re planning an event to make a splash in the networking world, we’ve got six tips to ensure you create a vibrant and memorable space for people to make meaningful connections.
- Know Your Audience
The first step in creating a networking event is to have a specific purpose, and cater to an audience that fits it. Will your event be aimed at raising money for an organisation, or raise awareness for a particular cause? Will it help young professionals build business connections and create helpful relationships with others in their field? Once you have a clear-cut idea of what your event is, you’ll be able to pinpoint who should be there and tailor your event to them.
- Create an Online Presence
Giving your event an online presence, like a Facebook or LinkedIn page, is a great way to create chatter and garner interest. Using helpful tools like Facebook Advertising will ensure your content reaches the right people and create some excitement. It’s also a super-efficient way to track numbers of attendees and gather other data for planning purposes.
- Relaxed Venue
Having an engaging and open space will help your attendees socialise easily and naturally, so it’s vital that you choose a venue that’ll make breaking the ice effortless.
- Easy Check-Ins
Not only will a smooth check-in process help you keep track of the ins-and-outs of your event, but it will also help your attendees feel more at ease and acknowledged before they step foot into the gathering. Having happy and comfortable guests is a recipe for success!
- Great Catering
Finger foods or a sit-down dinner – whatever style of catering suits your soiree, pay a little extra attention to this element of your event. Delicious food is a sure-fire way to keep guests satisfied, and will be a talking point for days afterwards.
- Something Special
Lastly, try a form of interactive entertainment like a magician, a comedian, or a quiz where your guests will be randomly grouped, encouraging them to chat and engage in a different way. Not only will these act as another ice-breaker and create a sense of fun, but they’ll also keep your guests talking about the event long after it has ended.
