Event Management

If you're tasked with managing a corporate event, your job may be riding on a successful outcome. Your company's executives will expect you not to exceed the budget and to meet their expectations for generation of additional revenue or new client leads from the event.

What Does an Event Management Company Do?

Event management companies implement as many aspects of the event as you want them to, or all of the aspects, in order to bring about the vision your company has for the corporate event. Event management companies make sure an event runs smoothly, that attendees receive value from the event, and that the company can be proud of the results.

Hiring an event management company is a turnkey solution and will give a company peace of mind throughout the entire process. The types of events event management companies plan include the following:

• Product launch


• Team-building session


• Training session


• Grand opening


• Workshop


• Road show


• Trade show


• VIP reception


• Holiday party


• Retirement party


• Corporate picnic.

Event Management Companies vs. In-House

Because an event management company's sole business is planning, organizing and conducting an event, it has a wealth of expertise and resources to call on, both of which will save a company money and time. In addition, event management companies buy in bulk and often also have negotiated discounted rates with hotels, restaurants and caterers, transportation companies, equipment rental companies, and even live entertainment.

Event management companies know what is necessary behind the scenes for a successful event. They have years of experience in knowing exactly what will present the right image for your company at the event. Too much or too little of something at the event location can make all the difference in the impression attendees receive.

Setting Up for an Event

An event management company will also know how long it will take to set up the facility for an event and when it is less costly to do so. Event management companies also know how to plan for adequate space for crowd movement, know what hazards to look for in the case of an outdoor event, and have access to resources to ensure adequate security is in place. In addition to handling the contracts, deposits, payment schedule and breakage fees, your event management company can also be on hand to count dishes, chairs, etc. to make sure you receive what you pay for.

Event Management Software

Many companies today conduct regular workshop sessions with internal and external associates. Some find it helpful to purchase event management software to help them manage administrative functions, such as registration and fee payments (or even create Web registration pages). Some software includes functionality for conducting post-event surveys.

By Kathleen Goolsby