Top 4 Most Common Corporate Events

According to Meeting Professionals International, more than $122 billion is spent annually in the U.S. meetings industry (2006). This money is most commonly spent at resort hotels, city & suburban hotels, conference or convention centers, restaurants, country clubs,  and unique venues.

Whether at a corporate, non-profit or government agency, the most popular corporate events typically fall into one of the following categories:

1. Seminars and Conferences

Purpose: Organizations plan and hold these meetings with targeted audiences, and provide them with relevant information, training, or education.

Description: Seminars are usually relatively short events, lasting a few hours, ½ day or a whole day.  Conferences, on the other hand, typically have multiple sessions that occur concurrently. They are typically held at hotels, begin with a keynote session and then hold breakout sessions by topic. A conference is usually planned for at least 2/3 of a day, up to a week or longer.

2. Trade Shows

Purpose: Organizations attend trade shows as a lead generation activity, or host one to reinforce their image as an industry leader among those who attend, such as members, current and potential customers,  and vendors or suppliers.

Description: Event planning for trade shows involves negotiating sponsorship rates for trade show booth space, advertising and promotion at and prior to the event, and sometimes speaking opportunities at the event. Many logistical challenges can arise when trying to assure that the trade show booth, audio visual, promotional materials, giveaways, and staff arrive on time and perform as desired for your goals and objectives.

3. Executive Retreats and Incentive Programs

Purpose: Often held at luxury resorts in exclusive destinations, these can be expensive undertakings. Although set in a relaxing environment, some business  related events should be on the agenda.

Description: Executive retreats and incentive trips typically last between three and five days. They require attention to site selection, lodging, transportation, catering, business meetings, and recreational activities. Negotiation skills must be sharp because these programs involve all aspects of event planning, and involve vendors from all aspects of the hospitality industry.

4. Appreciation Events

Purpose: These programs allow an event host to spend informal time with its guests in a non-traditional environment. This gives both parties an opportunity to build a personal relationship and learn more about mutual business priorities. This can also be a great way to thank employees, contractors, customers, and vendors.

Description: There are limitless possibilities and types of appreciation events that organizations hold throughout the year. Common events include:

    * Team building Events
    * Family oriented events
    * Dinner and theater
    * Day at the race track
    * Suites at sporting arenas
    * Day and evening cruises
    * Private parties
    * Holiday parties
   
Event Pro provides complete event planning and production including Sound, Lights & Lighting Design, Entertainment, and more for all the above mentioned Events anywhere in the World.