So You've Been Asked to Do the Company Event
So you've been asked to do the company event, and here you are
without a degree in Event Planning. There is one, BTW, with
Internet courses even: http://www.ises.com/.
Anyway, it happens, and even if you thought it would be fun,
when faced with the task, it can be daunting. You are about to
become the conductor of a large orchestra. Here are some ideas
from my years as an event planner.
FIRST THINGS FIRST
Find out your budget. If they didn't think about that - the
money, you know - you'll have to jump ahead and make your plan
so you can provide a realistic request for money.
With or without a large budget, you can do a great event. More
on this later.
If there's a history, get your predecessor's file.
THE NETWORK
If you're in a loop, in other words if you get out, go to
parties, trade shows, luncheons, anniversary banquets, and
charity balls, you have enough information. It's just a matter
of connecting the names, and your gut instincts will tell you
where the yentas are that can provide this.
Failing that, book your event in a reputable hotel and get with
their Catering Coordinator. She'll have a full rolodex of great
leads for you!
Other sources for information are any good PR firm, or the
'designer' florist or stationer in your town. These people are
often event-planners in disguise.
THE ELEMENTS
These are the basic elements to an event: