5 Tips for Better Events
We host lots of events here at Evolve Workplace. There’s space for every kind of event, from a small meeting around a conference table to a huge group gathering of hundreds. But finding a place for your event is just the first step.
Event expert Priya Parker literally wrote the book on rethinking events with The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters. She believes “gathering well, in person and online, is the 21st-century leadership skill.” Here are a few tips from Parker that might help take your event to the next level:
1. Start With Purpose
What’s the purpose of your event? Too often we confuse the category of the event (business meeting, networking event, birthday party, etc.) with the purpose. But think deeper. Sure, it’s a networking event—but why? Why are you hoping to connect people? Zero in on that deeper purpose and allow it to guide your planning.
2. It’s OK to Exclude
Parker calls it “generous exclusion” and encourages you to let your purpose narrow the focus of your event and, yes, exclude some things or even some people. We’re often tempted to throw our events wide open to everyone—the more the merrier. But that can be the wrong impulse, especially if it conflicts with your event’s purpose. That could mean trimming your guest list or tossing standard convention (e.g., no business cards at a networking event).
3. Emphasize Why in Your Invitation
Standard invitations are focused on logistical details—who, when, where. Instead, your event invitation should persuade people to come. It’s a chance to tell a compelling story and break through the busyness so people actually prioritize your event.
4. Focus on the Start and End
Too many events start and end with little fanfare. Someone dives in with unscripted words that skip over the purpose, forget the details, and fail to set the tone. Too often they focus on logistics, instead of grounding people in why people are there. Endings can be similar, with unrehearsed thank yous that don’t feel heartfelt and the event ends flat. The start and end should go back to the event’s purpose, reminding people why you gathered. If thank yous are important, give them more than a rushed, last-minute effort.
5. Rules Are OK
People like to rebel against rules, but giving your event a little structure can help break down norms and stale expectations. Parker tells a story about her father’s retirement party. It was going fine, but it went up a notch when her step-mother made a simple request: “I know home Ron, but I’m wondering if you can tell me some stories about work Ron?” The party shifted and broke open with stories about the impact Parker’s father had over his career. A little structure can make a big difference.
Consider Evolve Workplace for your next gathering. We’ve got space for every type of meeting.