Dylan and I are big believers in the power of networking.
Which is why we host our own events and open up our space to local groups looking for a networking venue.
Planning and hosting networking events help position you as a leader and authority in the business community.
However, running a networking group or hosting an event that includes networking, is not all sunshine and unicorns.
It can be a lot of work and if you’re going to put in the work, you want it to be successful.
You want to ensure than any exposure you get from the event is positive. The truth is that people talk about events they attend and you want them sharing how amazing yours was.
How to plan and host a successful networking event:
Start with the end in mind
Yes, this is a popular Dr. Stephen R. Covey quote, but it’s the best place to begin.
Before you get too far into event logistics make sure you can answer the following questions:
Who is the event for?
The best events are the ones that have a clear niche. Whether it is by industry, interest, entrepreneurs, etc.
Why should people attend?
It should be clear what people who attend can expect to get out of the event.
What format will your event follow?
There are a number of formats to choose from that range from a small casual gathering to an intimate sitdown meal with speakers and mingle time.
What is your event budget?
Depending on the format of your networking event, you may need a larger budget and it helps to plan for associated costs (ie. food, supplies, advertising and promotion). Plus, don’t forget to include “emergency funds” for unforeseen expenses.
Where will you hold your networking event?
Events can be held in local coffee shops or fancy event spaces.
Ensure the space will create a positive and memorable experience is important.
The space for your networking event should fit your budget and the number of people you expect to attend the event.
Shameless Plug: We often donate space for local groups. Contact us to chat about space for your next event.
When will you hold your event (date/time)?
If this is a recurring event, this may be driven by your venue.
Also, keep in mind who you would like to attend, and what is the timing that would best work for them.
Once you have these details sorted you’re ready to move on.
KISS (Keep It Super Simple)
Make everything as easy as possible.
From registration to feedback and everything in-between.
Using a platform like Eventbrite can make help make things easier for you and your attendees. It also integrates with Facebook which can help with promoting your event.
A few things to keep in mind are:
Clear directions to the location
Obvious signage at the event venue
An agenda if appropriate
Somebody to greet attendees and help them get settle
Kick-off introduction with instructions on where to find exits, restrooms, etc.
Try to imagine you’re the attendee, and consider what would make a great experience that would make you want to come back and rave to your community about it.
Run an amazing networking event
The goal is to have an event that people want to come back to again and again.
When you can do that, your attendees will help promote your event for you when they talk about it and share it on Social Media.
If you can be successful with making everything easy then you’re already on the right track.
Keep it going by keeping an eye on the details at the event.
Having an event checklist that you go through the week before, the day before and the day of the event is essential to keeping everything organized and on track.
Tip: Not everyone is a natural networker, so try to be a connector or have a few other people present who can help facilitate conversations and introductions.
Ask for feedback
Follow up with the people who came to your event. You can do this with a feedback form that you email out.
If you had a small group and you want to make an impression, follow up with each attendee personally.
Ask about the event itself and their experience, plus ensure you ask how it could be improved.
Coming up with questions can be a chore, so we’ve put together a few to get you started:
Overall, how would you rate the event? (0-10 scale question)
What did you like most about the event?
What did you like least about the event?
How do you think this event could have been better?
Was this the first time you attended one of our events? (Yes/no)
How likely are you to attend future events? (0-10 scale question)
How likely are you to recommend our events to a friend/colleague? (0-10 scale question)
Any other suggestions or comments to help us improve our future events?
There are online form builders that make collecting this feedback easy.
A few options for your event feedback forms are:
Run another event
The truth is your first event, maybe even the first few networking events, won’t be perfect. That’s not just okay, it’s to be expected.
You’ll finetune and improve with each one you do.
It can take time to attract a large group of attendees. However, regardless of how many people show up, deliver BIG value and create a memorable experience.
If you can successfully do that, people will not only come back, they’ll tell others about it.
~ Heather
PS: If you haven't had the chance to check out our coworking space in South Edmonton, Dylan & I would love to show you around and answer your questions about coworking. Book a tour now.