From selecting the location to managing the vendors, corporate event planning can be an extremely tedious and elaborate responsibility. This is especially apparent when the task falls onto a corporate staff member or an inexperienced event planner. However, here is an outline of an easy-to-follow, 7-step process that will hopefully help in achieving a perfect corporate event.

1. Determine the Objectives, Goals and Budget: When you define what you want to accomplish with your event, you are making the necessary preparations needed for a successful corporate event. If you choose to go that route, an event management or production company will usually provide much-needed assistance during this step.  

2. Create the Guest List: When you are putting together your guest list, consider your overall objectives. Who is your target audience? Are you trying to attract new clients, retain clients or celebrate with clients? A well-researched guest list is a key component to a successful corporate event.

3. Find a Perfect Venue: The location is key when preparing for your corporate event. Select a venue that works within your budget, but consider what the venue provides (tables, chairs, in-house catering, lighting, sound, etc.) and what can be branded. Most importantly, you want a venue that will work WITH you to achieve your goals.  Make certain you can do what you want.  And, make certain to get it in writing.

4. Confirm Vendor Arrangements: Sign off on vendor contracts as early as possible.  Make copies of everything. Any necessary event deposits should also be made well in advance. Also, make sure that any event staff (ticket collectors, ushers, waiters, etc.) are also all well-informed of the plans for the corporate event.

5. Establish Event Timing and Procedures: Is there an opening ceremony? Will there be a set time for a sit-down dinner? What entertainment will you be hosting? Where will the different attractions be stationed? Ensure adequate scheduling for every piece of the event, and allow additional timing for potential delays. Also consider the ticketing process, greeting, seating procedures, and time allotted for announcements,  speeches or activities.

6.Organize Staff Assignments: Along the same lines, there will likely be some key corporate staff members who will have responsibilities at the events.  These responsibilities will be in addition to mingling with the guests or their fellow associates. With expert guidance, these staff members will be able to help make the event a success, take the heat off of you and make you look even better at the same time.

7. Reconcile, Review and Revise the Event: After the corporate event, there will likely be loads of invoices to be expensed. Reconcile the finances.  Compare the monetary outlay to the overall budget and profit margin.  Make certain to do follow up surveys so that you can make the necessary revisions so the next event can be even better.

Hopefully these tips have been helpful.  To take all the heat off of you and just basque in the waves of compliments you will be receiving, hire a production company to successfully engineer your perfect event.  

Glenn David Productions is an event management and production company that helps individuals, businesses, organizations and civic groups easily create successful events that are worry and hassle free.