A large number of event management companies want to organize and produce mega events with thousands of attendees, massive sessions and workshops. But the fact is majority of events are smaller ones, with an average of around 100 attendees or fewer. Smaller events are a lot more challenging since you have restrained budget and resources. On the brighter side, these events have a lot of flexibility in terms of opportunities with activities and interactions. It also has a quality of exclusivity and can be more specialized and outcome based. Therefore, it is important to plan a smaller event more creatively.
Event managers need to be inventive while planning a smaller event and put effort and time as they invest in big events. Here are a few smart ideas to start thinking big about smaller events.
- Define your Goals and Expectations
Before you book the date and venue for the event and invest your budget, invest serious time in deciding the mood and ambiance of the event, noting down the expected outcomes, logistics and space needed, and realistic audience size. This will help you realistically decide the type of audience to invite and space you need to book.
- Create Significant Topics and Content for Select Few
The event should completely cater to the select audience so the content has to be laser-focused on the smaller audience. Otherwise, it wouldn’t be any different from any big event that caters to all. The focus on enhancing the experience of the attendee would begin from here.
- Select Right Audience
You are not interested in numbers here; you need to be keen on getting the right people in. You can segment your potential audience by defining the purpose of the event and to whom it caters in particular. Also, look for common interests beyond the obvious ones while selecting the group to enrich attendee experience.
- Marketing
Your event materials and website should focus on the significance and benefits primarily. While marketing the event, it is ideal to develop and communicate two or three benefit statements for your target audience. These statements should highlight the pulse of your event and also as to how this event would open new arenas for them to explore.
- Focus on Attendee Experience
The attendee experience should be a key focus. Every aspect of your event, from the event website, resources, to the follow-up should be taken care of. Positive attendee experience is how any event flourishes.
The success of smaller events depends on your ability to communicate the purpose and value of the event. The key is to focus on specific groups and enhancing their experience. Small events can be a rich and rewarding experience for both the attendees and the event managers.
