Last Updated on Mar 25, 2020 by James W
Running a business is very rewarding. But building the right contacts can be difficult.
There are many contributing factors to a successful business. However, marketing and networking remains two key elements. In the digital age, it’s easy to get hooked by the idea of mastering the online world. Cracking the virtual arena will benefit your company, but most businesses still rely on the localised audience to thrive.
Hosting a networking event is a great way to make a lasting impression. Here’s how to ensure it’s a success.
Location
First impressions are extremely important in business. Hosting your event in a prestigious venue will set the tone for a truly successful night.
Some businesses might want to use their own premises to cut down on costs. However, using a stand out location will create a positive vibe and encourage your guests to enjoy the night. The right venue will have all the necessary space and facilities while also offering decent views outside.
However, you must take accessibility into account. Your guests are unlikely to come if it’s difficult to get to. Besides, you’re looking to conquer the local demographic, so you don’t want to move too far.
Promotion
The network event can only be successful if the right people turn up. Whether it’s industry professionals or potential customers, the promotion is key.
If your company website has a subscription service, then emailing contacts is a cheap and easy way to get in touch. Likewise, posting on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter will reach the people who are aware of your business. After all, repeat business is the key to long-term success.
Alternatively, you could always post flyers or leaflets around the local area.
Presentation
As well as organise the event itself, you must plan your actual presentation. This is your chance to make a positive impact on your guests. Striking the right balance between informative and entertaining is key. Using visual aids will certainly help.
If the night is aimed at industry professionals, you may even want to book a guest, speaker. You could even use this aspect to help your promotion, which could help encourage the right people to attend.
If you aren’t a great public speaker, you can use tricks like video footage to help. Whatever approach you take, be sure to express the desired message. Otherwise, the whole event is a waste of time.
Networking
The formal presentations are key to the success of your event. However, the informal mingling is arguably even more important. This is a great way to express your personality and build trust with potential clients and customers on a one-to-one basis.
Human interaction is still the best way to form a relationship of trust. If people like you, they are far more likely to buy into the business. Additionally, you should use the opportunity to promote the company by giving your guests a bag of marketing materials.
Companies like Alpha Card offer brilliantly compact yet informative materials. Combine these with a few fun items, and your night is bound to make a lasting memory.
Having made a great impression on your guests, the business should be
set for a boom.
