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What are the biggest mistakes companies make when planning corporate events?

Lorene Cowie

Well, I've been to my fair share of corporate events, and I can say with confidence that companies often make some big mistakes when planning them. One of the biggest mistakes is not considering the needs and preferences of their attendees. It's important for companies to understand who their audience is and tailor the event accordingly. For example, if the majority of attendees are young professionals, it doesn't make sense to plan a stuffy, formal event with a sit-down dinner and a long keynote speech.

Another mistake is not having a clear purpose or goal for the event. Companies sometimes throw events for the sake of throwing events, without really thinking about what they hope to achieve. As a result, these events often lack focus and fail to engage attendees. It's important for companies to have a clear idea of what they want to accomplish with the event, whether it's to build relationships with clients, generate leads, or simply celebrate a milestone.

Another common mistake is not providing enough opportunities for networking and relationship-building. Many people attend corporate events with the expectation of meeting new people and making connections, but sometimes companies don't provide enough opportunities for this to happen. Whether it's through structured networking activities, ice breakers, or simply providing ample time for mingling, companies should make sure that attendees have plenty of opportunities to socialize and build relationships.

Another big mistake is not taking the time to properly plan and execute the event. This can result in things like logistical snafus, subpar food and beverage options, or a lackluster program. Companies should make sure they have a detailed event plan, with backup plans in case of unexpected hiccups. They should also make sure they have a team dedicated to executing the event, with clear roles and responsibilities assigned to each member.

Finally, companies sometimes forget to think about the overall attendee experience. Corporate events can be long and tiring, and it's important to make sure attendees are comfortable and engaged throughout. This means considering things like the venue (is it easy to get to? Is there ample parking?), the temperature and lighting of the space, and providing snacks and refreshments throughout the event. It also means planning engaging activities and programming that will keep attendees interested and excited.

In short, companies make a lot of mistakes when planning corporate events. But with some careful planning and consideration, these events can be incredibly successful in achieving their goals and engaging attendees.