8 Keys to a Successful Event
Make them want more. Have your guests leaving glad that they attended. And if it is an annual gathering, you want them mentally blocking off the date for next year. This means the event:
- Begins on time — this shows respect for your guests and their time.
- Ends on time (never go longer than one hour for a daytime event and two hours for any evening event with a program, not including galas/dances and auctions).
- Allows for sufficient social time that enables people to connect with each other — and for you and your team to thank people and tell your story.
Ensure the experience. From their approach to their exit, your guests need to know where they are going and feel welcomed and appreciated. This can be achieved through placing multiple levels of staff and volunteers in the right places. For example, place your friendliest staff and volunteers at the welcome/check-in table to put guests at ease immediately. Your best storytellers should work the room and speak during the program. Never allow people to stand alone or feel awkward if they don't know anyone.
Looking for Jeff? You'll find him either on the lake, laughing with good friends, or helping nonprofits develop to their full potential.
Jeff believes that successful fundraising is built on a bedrock of relevant, consistent messaging; sound practices; the nurturing of relationships; and impeccable stewardship. And that organizations that adhere to those standards serve as beacons to others that aspire to them. The Bedrocks & Beacons blog will provide strategic information to help nonprofits be both.
Jeff has more than 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience and is a member of the NonProfit PRO Editorial Advisory Board.
