Although large gatherings have been restricted and discouraged since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, things are opening up now, and more venues are hosting large events. That means this is a perfect time for you to host your own event!
But how do you ensure you’re getting enough event attendees per year? How do you increase your attendance numbers? Read on for some helpful strategies to get you started!
Offer Incentives to Event Attendees
One of the best ways to get people excited about visiting your event is to give them incentives to show up. These don’t have to be extravagant, but a little can go a long way! People have plenty of excuses for not attending an event, but offering incentives is a great way to cut through these excuses.
For example, you can offer early signup packages for your event, giving extra goodies or perks to people who sign up early. This will not only get more people signing up early but will increase your chances that they will set time aside to make sure they can attend.
If you’re trying to figure out how to thank guests for attending an event, prizes, coupons, and discounts are all great options! These encourage people to arrive not just for the sake of being there, but for the sake of what they can get! And by giving away prizes, you can also help with your event attendance tracking, giving you more accurate numbers for your event’s performance.
Find Out Why People Want to Attend
People have a variety of different reasons why they’d want to attend an event. Sometimes they’re attending to learn and hear your speakers, or maybe they want to network and rub shoulders with other like-minded folks. Or maybe you booked an awesome venue that draws people in with its awesome scenery!
You should work to enhance and advertise your event’s main draws. If people are coming to your event to learn from renowned speakers, really emphasize who will be speaking at your event and any credentials they have.
If your event is more of a networking opportunity for folks, build that into your planning! Include meet and greets, cocktail hours, and other events in your schedule to give guests the chance to mingle. This will encourage more people to attend so that they don’t miss those kinds of opportunities!
Focus on Your Invites and Advertising
Advertising is key if you want people to show up to your event. You want effective ads that draw people in, encouraging them to sign up and attend your event. This requires a lot of preparation and strategy!
You need to figure out who your event’s target audience is, and then find the best way to advertise to them. If you’re offering a tech conference, then you should go with online advertisements on websites frequented by your clients.
If your potential attendees use social media a lot, try to make social media ads that will draw them in and get more views! Or, if there’s a particular hobby or skill set that relates to your event, you can advertise on websites, magazines, and businesses that cater to those activities.
Learn From Event Experts!
Running an event is tough work, and getting enough event attendees to make it worthwhile is even tougher. But the end result is worth the effort!
If you’d like to learn more about event planning and maximizing your attendance, consider registering for The Event Planner Expo 2022! You can learn a wealth of information from event professionals and vendors, helping you make your next event the best it’s ever been.
