The last two years have really challenged the events industry with shifting formats, travel issues, last-minute surges, and changes in plans and attendance counts.

 

But that’s not to say that an event is impossible to plan; it just may require you to adopt more of a contingency mindset. Here are five tips to help you plan and successfully execute your
next event:

1. Be flexible. Barriers and surges don’t have to equal a poor event or cancellation. Review the countless blogs, articles, books, webinars, courses, and more outlining what does or does not work. Stay ahead of the curve and have a contingency plan at the ready.

2. Prioritize health and safety. Follow expert safety guidance and be ready to switch venues or formats if necessary or make accommodations to limit physical contact. And, of course, pay special attention to cleanliness and hygiene. Consider ventilation, seating, and onsite testing.

3. Be creative with content. Have fun with attendee interactions. Try gamification, surveys, polls, push notifications, chatrooms, video, user-generated content, and more to elevate an event beyond the ordinary. Use social media to share photos and videos taken on-site, or even consider creating an event podcast.

4. Be creative with engagement. Every attendee’s definition of engagement differs, so offer something for everyone. Review what others have done to create unforgettable events including chat rooms, small group activities, team-building exercises, social media, giveaways, and special events.

5. Emphasize wellness. Rather than overplanning and overstimulating attendees, consider strategic ways to deliver great content that focuses on the “why” of the event while building
inadequate time for social activities and relaxation.