For Danie Greyling, the success of your event greatly depends on your ability to effectively engage your audience.
The goal of every event planner is to put on the best event possible – and the most important measure of that success is the attendee experience. Employing technology to aid with this goal might be perceived as quite a daunting task. What type of technology should you employ? How reliable is it? Who will look after the technology during your meeting or event? How can you ensure that the technology you employ ensures that my next meeting or event is interactive, measureable and, most importantly, fun?
Let me explain how you can do it.
EMBRACE TECHNOLOGY Letting your attendees know that you’re listening to their feedback – and acting on it – is arguably the most important relationship management investment you can make. Too often, that feedback is left until the end of a programme, and solicited via a paper survey or impersonal email blasts to the entire attendee list.
PARTNER WITH A COMPANY THAT KNOWS HOW There are a vast number of options and an equal number of companies claiming to be experts in the field. Make sure that whoever you decide to partner with is credible and understands your requirements.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION When the Wi-Fi is not working, no one is working. Wi-Fi allows you to connect with your attendees (social media, emails, conference apps), and for them to communicate with each other and to the outside world. Don’t ruin this relationship by relying on the stock pricing handout your venue gives you during the planning process. Instead, make sure you truly understand the venue’s networks capabilities (access, speed, cost) to ensure that you don’t end up stuck when your doors open.
READ: 9 WAYS TO INCREASE AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT AT EVENTS
START WITH SMALL STEPS Compile a list of value-adds and find a solution that fits.
PUT YOURSELF IN THE SHOES OF YOUR DELEGATES What would add value for delegates at your next meeting or event? An electronic agenda, logistical information, a platform to connect with other delegates, or a place to voice their opinions and make instant decisions? It may even be a combination of any of these. Let the answers to these questions guide you in your selection process.
Don’t just think of interacting with your audience during the meeting or event. Think of engaging with them before and after the event as well. This will leave a lasting impression.
Danie Greyling is the managing director for Lumi Meetings & Events, South Africa. He is passionate about maximising the effectiveness and ROI of events through the use of technology.
