When you really need to make your conference stand out, you may assume you need to throw loads of money into it. However, even if you’re on a budget there are ways you can make it stand out without blowing the bank.
Here are some of the best ways to ensure your next conference is talked about for months, and possibly even years to come.
1. The small details matter
It’s easy to forget the small stuff sometimes. If you want to host the most memorable and successful conference your company has ever had, you will need to focus on even the smallest details.
This includes stylish place cards, making sure attendees are comfortable throughout and providing adequate drinks and snacks. It’s the small details the visitors will likely remember.
2. Choose the right location
Perhaps the most important thing you need to focus on is finding the perfect conference venues. Taking your time to choose a stunning location is essential. It’s also a good idea to have a theme based around the venue.
For example, if you host it at a theme park, an incentive for your attendees could include theme park tickets. Or if you have your conference at Silverstone you could treat your attendees to race day tickets. This gives your conference a little edge that will definitely help to make it more memorable.
3. Provide live music
After the conference has finished, host a party with live music. Your guests will likely be hungry and thirsty. Providing them with a good reception will help to ensure the day is memorable.
You can opt for a live band if you have the funds, or simply hire a DJ. Having music playing on the breaks throughout the day is also a great idea. It makes the atmosphere more relaxing.
4. Make it unique
Of course if you really want to stand out, you need to do something that makes your conference unique. So, if you’re hosting the conference at a race track, you could include a ride in one of the supercars.
Depending on the nature of the event, you might want to find a speaker for your memorable conference. You can easily hire a professional speaker online and select from a unique and interesting roster of individuals who specialize in certain subjects. Whether you want to search by topic or by price, it’s easy for you to find the perfect speaker for your conference. The more noteworthy the speaker, the more likely you are to have a successful conference. Depending on who you select to speak, people may be talking about your event for years, which will allow you to plan larger events with more notable speakers.
5. Plan ahead
The main thing you need to ensure that you do is to plan ahead. Planning your conference as early as possible allows you to come up with the best possible ideas. Bear in mind that if you’re booking somewhere popular, you will need to book early to ensure you get the dates you need.
While these additional touches may be a little more expensive, it’s definitely worth the cost with the advertising and marketing aspect it brings. The more unique you can make the day, the more memorable it will be.
Further reading:
http://www.shrm.org/Communities/VolunteerResources/Pages/successconf.aspx
http://www.lifehack.org/articles/work/10-simple-steps-to-plan-a-successful-conference.html
http://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2011-09/26/advance