We've all had to attend a conference or two in the space of our careers
. Generally, conferences or conventions are an opportunity for learning and an opportunity to widen our networks by mingling and getting to know people in our industry with similar interests. But what makes a good conference in the first place? A successful conference generally means one that is well attended and one that people will want a repeat of in the years to come. So here are a few factors that make a conference one that people will remember.
1. A great program. - Conferences are generally set up with speakers from key industries and areas of expertise relevant to the topic or theme of the event. It's important that an event organizer plan out the program for each day with care.
2. Variety when it comes to activities. - Most conferences have some sort of activities planned other than sitting in a room and listening to a bunch of people talk. Make sure that you plan out interesting activities in between to help your guests decompress from presentations.
3. A good guest list. - One of the main reasons people attend conferences is to make new contacts and expand their respective networks. Invite people who you think other guests will want to meet and will contribute to the overall ambience of your event.
4. A great venue. - Location is all-important when it comes to an event. Make sure that your corporate events venue Melbourne is well situated so it's convenient for your guests to get there. Also make sure that you have the right space for the right amount of people.
5. Networking activities. - Generally, guests are only able to talk to other people if they are sitting at the same table or during meals or coffee breaks. It's a good idea to devote maybe an evening or an afternoon to a social activity that gives your guests ample time to meet and talk to a good number of people, including your guest speakers.
6. Organization down to the last detail. - The best conferences go smoothly from start to finish and it's not just pure luck. It requires ruthless organization to make sure that nothing goes wrong. Plan everything out to the last detail. Your guests and your guest speakers will notice that you've taken the time to make sure that everything is perfect.
7. A conference kit. - It's normal for organizers to give away goodie bags or kits to their guests and attendees. Make sure that everything inside the kit is useful, like a blank contact sheet where they can take down names and numbers of the people they meet, etc.