Want more bookings, we’re guessing that’s a heck yeah! In this post, we’ll share 15 easy ways to get on the radar of event planners, potential clients and partner companies.
#1. HOST A NETWORKING EVENT
Groups are always looking for fun spaces. Reach out to some local networking groups and offer your space as a meet space. Add some great incentives like great drinks or free 1st time use. The object is to get them to experience your venue. Some groups are creatures of habit and just don’t think to rotate their venues. Give them the idea!
An added bonus to working with networking events is that some of the members just might be looking for venues themselves for a party, celebration or work function. Exposing your venue, might just bring in potential customers.
#2. WORK WITH LOCAL GOVERNMENT OR CHARITY ORGANIZATIONS
Reach out to your local City Council, Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club or similar organizations. Let them know you have a space for hire and point out what makes your space unique or a good fit for them.
TIP: If’s it’s a charitable organization then consider #3 option.
#3. OFFER YOUR SPACE FREE TO NON-PROFITS
Offering your space for free might be a great way to start filling it. Once people see your space, they are more likely to talk about it.
By offering your space to Not for Profit organizations, you will accomplish two things:
Giving back to the community (it will get noticed!).
Exposing potential business owners or leaders to your awesome venue space.
Of course, food storage and food prep would be on the menu if you were preparing your own food. Imagine spending more of that time with your guests, family, and friends.
TIP: Ask the NFP’s if you can share images from their meetings or events on your social media pages. This promotes the NFP and your venue
#4. BEFRIEND EVENT PLANNERS
Make it a point to know the event planners in your area. Invite them over for a viewing… without any pressure to book functions. Make sure they leave with your pamphlet for when they do want to book an event.
This is about building relationships. Keep in touch when them regarding ideas on use for your space.
#5. PARTNER WITH INDUSTRY SUPPLIERS
If you have regular suppliers, think about how you can partner with them. This could be music, entertainment, food or decorations. Maybe you can set up a referral deal with them.
#6. HOLD AN OPEN HOUSE
Think about the type of end user you want and the suppliers that work with those clients. Invite them to an open house and showcase your menu, drinks an overall amenities.
TIP: Arrange with your kitchen or caterer to provide bite-size versions to sample.
#7. LIST YOUR VENUE ON EVENT DIRECTORIES
Getting listed on local, state and national online event/business directories is super important from an SEO/search perspective. It has huge potential to drive quality traffic to your website.
#8. SEGMENT YOUR EMAILS
Don’t just send the same email to everyone. Segment your emails to go to different groups and tailor your content to those targeted groups. For example, you might have a list for event suppliers and party planners and a separate list for the general public.
#9. GET CONSISTENT ON SOCIAL MEDIA
If you’re finding it difficult to keep up with social media posts to promote your event space, consider a social media management program. Investopedia voted Sprout Social “Best Overall.”
#10. FRESHEN UP YOUR BRANDING
Consider getting a photographer in every quarter or twice per year to take a series of photos of your venue, staff, new menu and customers (with permission). Use it to freshen-up your branding.
#11 FESS UP ABOUT FEES
Be up-front about your fees, even list them on your website. Don’t make a customer hunt for that information.
#12 KEEP YOUR WEBSITE LANDING PAGE CURRENT AND AWESOME
First impressions are the most important. Make sure your website is easy to find, easy to navigate and contains a downloadable version of your Function Pack.
#13 LOCATION, LOCATION… LOCATION!
Make sure your event space is listed in all the most important places. On your website, all your social media channels, directories, Google local search (claim your listing) and your emails.
#14 LEVERAGE THE POWER OF THE “CHECK-IN”
Encourage event attendees to “check-in” on Facebook and Instagram. This way their network can see the event being hosted at your venue. That’s FREE advertising!
#15 KNOW YOUR SECRET SAUSE
And most of all, know your special sauce. What makes your venue different from other venues.
Start using some of these tips to ensure a steady flow of event bookings this year. What’s your favourite tip for getting more bookings for meetings, functions and events?
However you have any questions don't hesitate to give us a call at 888-389-3900 or email us at support@worldeventsinsurance.com.
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