Event management is both a tough and interesting thing to do – whether it is a training day, a corporate meeting or any other occasion. To keep everything running smoothly can be particularly difficult because not only do you have to keep everything for the event contents and agenda organized, but you need to manage the attendees and ensure their experience is both valuable and worthwhile.

I have compiled a list.

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Key things to remember;
1. Define the Outcome
The very first objective when you are going to plan an event is to define a solid goal for your event. What do you want to get from the event? Do you want to earn some money? What do you want the outcome to be for attendees?
Almost the entire plan of your event hinges upon the goal(s) of your event. Also you need to define the structure of the event you want to organize.
2.  Define Your Target Market
Next, you need to define the target market for the event. What kind of people are you targeting? Who will attend the event? Where can you reach potential attendees?
3. Consider Timing
Decide on a time and date for the event. Consider public holidays. Your event timing should not conflict with similar events or popular holiday times. Timing should be set to allow for travel – people need to be able to reach the event in good time and also remember to set a maximum number of people that can participate in the event.
A great resource for checking public holiday dates can be found here.
4. Location, Location, Location
The location of your event is also very important. A great event could be spoiled by the choice of a bad location. A location may not be ideal for a number of reasons: difficult for parking, travel, transport links etc. It could be crowded or noisy at times.
Be sure to visit your chosen location and cover issues that may affect your attendee experience.

5.  Facilities
Work out what facilities are needed to host your event. You will also need to consider the seating capacity and ticket arrangements for the event. If you are creating a ticketed event, be sure to explore how you will manage the tickets, and consider using an event system to manage sales.
6. Get Event Sponsorship
Consider approaching people for sponsorship and partnerships. There are usually companies with a shared interest in your attendees who may help you in the execution of the event and possibly assist with advertising and promotion. Find people in your industry or niche and try to gain support.
7. Set a Budget
Create a budget for your event. Work out how much you have to spend, list all the requirements and then decide how you will allocate your resources to different expenses.
8. Create a Marketing Plan
Develop a marketing plan. Decide how you will promote your event both offline and online. You can build a web page for your event. Promote on social media. Devise different strategies for different social media platforms.
Decide how best to promote your event offline. Print brochures and leaflets. You can advertise in local newspapers if you can afford.

9. Choose Ticketing Methods
Decide how you will sell the tickets. Do you want to sell tickets online or offline or both? You will need to manage the printing and delivery of the tickets, whether you choose online delivery or offline. You will also need to generate a system for managing the tickets and attendees.
You could consider hiring a professional printing service for printing tickets, to keep a professional image. There are many printing services you can choose. Choose a service provider that is fast and cost effective. Kalamazoo’s small event ticket printing service is an excellent service to consider.

By carefully planning and researching before you launch, you will save yourself time, money and really make sure your first business event is a success!

Want to read more related to this? Here is my other article on the same topic:  Events That Could Help Your Business .