There are plenty of benefits for your venue to be hosting corporate events — most of the time you’ll get repeat business, or benefit from referrals and increased event inquiries after a successful event, and there’s always the chance your spot will become a company’s go-to venue for future happenings. With that in mind, we’ve got some tried-and-true tips that’ll help ensure corporate events in your space are a sure-fire success.
Many corporate events require some kind of audio or visual component, and with hybrid events becoming the norm, we can expect that corporate planners will need to know what your AV capabilities are. Make sure you communicate and highlight what services you can offer either on your website or in your sales kit. Whether it’s done in house or you partner with an outside production company, make sure your clients know what your capabilities (or limitations) are, and who is responsible for what.
The most successful venues make mingling and networking a priority during corporate events. Try to offer a space where guests can chat and not feel too crowded. Make sure you are able to control the volume of background music, other guests within the restaurant/hotel guests, or any entertainment to ensure guests won’t need to yell over the noise. Even better — if the weather permits, designating even a small outdoor area with a few high-top tables or chairs can double as a place to get fresh air and continue a conversation.
Some corporate clients merely want a space to set up their event, while others want all the bells and whistles that’ll have a wow-factor for attendees. Having multiple packages, or some “A-la-carte” options means you can accommodate all different types of corporate event clients than a single private events package type. The bottom tier can be the basic use of the space, while the top tier can include things like manned food stations, customized cocktail and food menu offerings, onsite valet, and more.
If the client hasn’t already asked, make sure you suggest a quick meeting before the event. Factoring in time for an event run-through is a great way to work out any potential kinks beforehand to ensure the actual event day runs smoothly. Test any A/V equipment, answer any last-minute questions, make sure the menu items are good to go, double-check that you and the client are on the same page about all the details, and go over any necessary backup plans if you’re hosting an event outdoors or on a rooftop.
A great side effect of having a private events program is that social media sharing allows your space to reach new potential clients organically and easily. Small touches like fresh flowers, good warm lighting, and visually appealing cocktails/food items will up the chances that attendees will post photos from your space. You can even post a hashtag on a sign in the bathroom or on a menu chalkboard for even easier sharing and reposting later.
Once the event is completed, make sure to send out a post-event survey to your corporate clients. Make sure to ask questions like “Why did they choose this venue among other offerings? What was their favorite part? Is there anything that they would have changed?” This feedback is invaluable if you want to attract additional similar clients, and it shows your customer you’re invested in their experience. Don’t forget to also ask for testimonials - you can use those in your marketing efforts to attract new business!
Now that you know the 411 on hosting successful corporate events at your space, why not request a demo to see how Tripleseat can take your private events program to the next level?