Top tips for corporate event success

Careful planning is the key to a successful corporate event, according to veteran organiser Rebecca Stables.

From her Storrington office, the events specialist works with clients from across the country and has listed 11 top pearls of wisdom for firms looking to throw a worthwhile party.

Speaking to the West Sussex County Times, she insisted that knowing your objectives is paramount to the success of an event - to do this, organisers should identify what the company hopes to achieve and how the success will be measured.

Brand consideration is equally important, as a company that markets itself as eco-friendly - for instance - will be expected to throw a corporate party that reflects this ethos.

Central to achieving the objectives of a given corporate event is a carefully considered shortlist of guests and an event that will appeal to the target audience.

An appropriate venue can make or break the evening. Ms Stables recommends inspecting the premises beforehand (including the bathrooms), meeting the catering team and enquiring about staffing and transport.

She also stresses the importance of getting the basics right, with sufficient food and a selection of drinks served at the right temperatures. Plenty of serving points, ample staff, clean toilets, adequate cloakroom facilities and a comfortable room temperature are all tantamount.

Insist on a deadline for invite responses, she says, then be prepared to follow up any non-respondees. A courtesy reminder call can also help minimise no-shows.

By expecting the unexpected and planning ahead, with contingency plans, key contact numbers and the appropriate insurance, a good organiser can also prevent a disaster from becoming a full-blown crisis.

Once the big day is underway, it is always impressive to welcome each guest in person, anticipate their needs and circulate to ensure that everyone is receiving the attention they deserve.

To follow up, she concludes, why not send a brief note of thanks to those who attended, perhaps replete with photos of the event, or relevant products.

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