It sounds rather simple to host networking events. After all, isn’t it just providing a place for some like-minded individuals to appear and chat it up? In a sense, it is. However, networking events are so much more. To make sure a networking event is successful, it requires a lot of behind-the-scenes work and preparation.
Some things you may want to consider first are:
- Why have you decided to have the event and what do you hope to accomplish with it?
- Where do you plan to hold the event?
- How many people will you invite – and who?
- Are you ready to make sure people attend and participate?
These are just the basic questions to get you started on hosting a successful networking event.
Find the perfect venue
Location for any event is important. However, for a networking event, it is even more so. Why? Because these are professionals and they tend to have a calendar full of events, meetings, and appointments that they need to attend. Making your networking easily accessible and convenient can entice more of these busy-bodies to show up!
Understanding your target population and where you will find them can assist you in determining the location. Find a location that is:
- Near a hub within the industry,
- Easily accessible from main roadways, or
- Within the business/commerce area of your city.
Once you find the perfect area, you will want to find an open space for a tent rental. Why a tent rental instead of a banquet hall? First, people have been using banquet halls for years. They are boring, outdated, and overused. Second, tents are customizable – which means you can make it a perfect fit – literally – for your event. Finally, tents can provide all the perks of an indoor space. They are climate controlled with flooring, sidewalls, windows, etc.
Designing the layout for networking events
Once you have your space and your tent (which you have customized to meet the needs based on the sizing your event will require), you will need to decide how to set up the layout. Take time in designing because this will determine the flow of your event.
Sometimes, attending networking events can be overwhelming. Think about it — you have a lot of people and a lot of companies, all with booths that they are trying to make eye-catching. Unless you are planning on passing out maps, you will want to make sure there is some method to all the madness.
Clearly mark each area. For instance, if you have designed areas for each section of an industry, make sure to mark this overhead so it may be easily viewed. After all, many people specialize in a specific area and will be looking to network there.
Advertise your event properly
How do you intend to make your event known – and entice people to attend? You will need to advertise – and do so properly. In addition, to have a successful networking event, you will want to make sure you are reaching the correct people. Having a high turnout at your event is great, but if they aren’t the people you are seeking, then the networking event itself will not be as successful.
Encourage mingling
No matter how much you think it will work, sometimes your attendees just don’t want to mingle – which leads to a stagnant event. Don’t let this happen! Instead, keep your guests up and moving, and hiring a few individuals, if needed, to make this happen.
Playing a few simple games can encourage guests to interact with each other, as well as keep them on their feet. For example, About Me games, humorous scavenger hunts, and the like. In addition, having knowledgeable individuals who can meet and connect others is an immense help. In addition, if they see someone not talking to anyone, they can assist that person in making new connections.
Keep your event fun, light-hearted, and mingle-friendly.
Important Do’s and Don’ts
There are many things that you should and shouldn’t do to ensure the success of any networking event. Here are a few important do’s and don’ts to help you get ahead:
DO keep seating to a minimum. Sure, you need some seats for guests to take a load off, but too much seating or even offering a lounging area will lead to a halt in the networking. If they must stand, they are likely to keep moving and keep mingling.
DON’T spend too much time on speeches, presentations, entertainment, etc. This keeps people from focusing on one another. (Keep in mind that this is a networking event, not a show.)
DO make things easy. Check-in, raffles, etc. need to be easy and smooth – otherwise, guests will be deterred.
DO allow the biggest time of the event to be for mingling.
DON’T provide a big meal. A large, heavy meal will tire out your guests and lead to a more sedentary event.
DO provide cocktails, appetizers, and other small bites for your guests. When thirst or hunger strikes an attendee, you want to make sure you can quench it.
DO have specific people who are hired to encourage the flow and movement of the event. These individuals will help answer any questions and direct attendees when needed.
DO provide a detailed list of the event’s offerings and activities. This will come in handy and be appreciated by the attendees, as they will be able to make the most out of the event.
A networking event can be a fantastic opportunity to meet others within your industry and link together. They are a chance to grow, learn, and share. However, attending an event and hosting one are two different things.
Planning, designing, and encouraging will lead your event down the right path. Present every opportunity possible to allow for meaningful networking and you will be surprised at how great the outcome will be.
Remember this: Once you have hosted a successful networking event, the attendees are going to be looking for your next event. Don’t let them down!