Tuesday, November 18, 2008

More Wine?

The question is familiar, as we have all attended the famous networking event and answered gleefully that we will take another glass of free alcohol – all in the name of “business mingling”.

Events are a popular way to bring targeted groups of people together for a specific purpose. And with a little ingenuity and a fair budget, an event can be a great marketing tool. However, like all tactics designed to get others to act in a desired manner, an event must be planned strategically and executed flawlessly to really be effective and successful. Social and fluid in nature, events must walk the fine line between being fun and being purposeful. Needless to say, planning events is not for the faint of heart.

Non-profit organizations often use events as a tool for fundraising, and to create a base of supporters for their cause. In fact many national non-profit organizations are so skilled at using events as a marketing tool, that this tactic is often an integral part of their marketing plan.

If you are in need of some fresh ideas for promoting your products or services, consider using a well planned event to achieve your goal. Listed below are a few websites that offer a wealth of information about event planning, and event marketing.

International Special Events Society (ISES)
Check out their Special Events online magazine for inspiration, or explore their site to find a talented and experienced special events planner in your area!

Event Marketing Institute

Event Marketer Magazine

Remember, business is all about establishing and nurturing a relationship with your customers. And an event can be a perfect way to reach potential and valued clients in a social and vibrant way. People may not always remember an advertisement they saw, but they will always remember a great event that they attended.

Keri Glover