A well-executed networking event is an opportunity to create new partnerships, forge long-lasting connections and develop business ventures. As the host, your goal is to provide the perfect environment for professionals to meet and mingle – and that’s not easy to achieve.
Planning a successful networking event takes careful thought, as every detail matters. For a gathering guests appreciate, follow these practical tips.
Plenty of free-flowing space is essential for mixing and mingling, so find an event venue that has a large ballroom or wide open area. When guests can move around with ease, they’ll have an easier time meeting new people and making beneficial business connections.
To facilitate interaction between guests, consider roundtable seating for your networking event. You can group people by business goals, professional expertise or even personal interests – whatever you think will encourage more real talk. Also, make sure to have plenty of staff on hand to help guests who have a harder time embracing the meet-and-greet experience.
With a buffet, the wait in line becomes the central part of the meal – and the time isn’t fun or productive. Since sharing a meal is a great way to build organic relationships, skip the buffet and serve beverages and hors d’oeuvres throughout the event space. Or, plan for a number of separate food stations where guests can gather to chat.
Sometimes, guests need a gentle push to start mingling. When planning your networking event, decide on an exercise or game to pull out if you need to warm up the room. You might, for instance, ask each guest to meet three new people. Or, pass out playing cards and invite the guests to find others with the same number or suit.
An experienced professional planner has the tools and strategies to create a successful networking event. From locating the ideal venue and deciding on décor to managing the gathering and meeting the budget, an expert event planner can help you tackle every detail. With a professional at your side, your business networking affair is sure to be a big hit – and planning will be a breeze.
If you’re hosting a networking event in Utah, the highly-skilled team at In the Event can meet your needs. With over 35 years of combined experience planning trade shows, product launches, corporate parties and business gatherings, our professional planners have what it takes to create an outstanding networking experience.
Plus, if you rent furniture, décor or equipment from In the Event, we’ll provide our expert event planning services for free! For more information, or to discuss your upcoming networking event, contact our Salt Lake City, Utah, office today.
