Keeping your guests engaged is essential for a successful event. The problem is that it’s becoming harder and harder to do, especially in a city like New York, where guests expect everything to be bigger and better. Fortunately, with the right knowledge, it’s easy to boost engagement. Try these NYC event strategies to wow even the hardest-to-impress guests.
Get to Know Your Guests
Guests today expect a personalized experience, so if your event doesn’t deliver a high level of personalization, your guests will walk away disappointed. That’s why it’s critical to get to know them, their preferences, and their expectations. Learn who your target audience is, what their interests are, and what event elements appeal to them. Then, tailor your guest experience to match. If you hit the mark on personalization, your guests feel valued, enjoy themselves, and are likely to return in the future.
Keep Lines of Communication Open
If you aren’t keeping lines of communication open with your guests before, during, and after your event, you’re missing a huge opportunity to boost engagement. Offering your guests a way to participate directly in the event through things like message boards, breakout meetings, social media, and interactive elements on your website helps them feel connected and engaged. Indeed, the more your guests feel that their voices are valued, the more likely they are to participate throughout the event and to become repeat attendees.
Scope Out the Competition
If you aren’t sure where to start or just want to stay abreast of the very latest trends in event planning, one of the best things you can do is scope out the competition. Attend events that are similar to yours or that target a similar audience. See what’s getting tons of engagement (online and elsewhere) and what falls flat. Then, apply those lessons to your future events.
Prioritize Networking to Boost Engagement
One of the biggest reasons guests attend events (especially corporate events) is for networking opportunities. If you excel in creating them, you create value for your guests. Build physical areas for networking, such as breakout rooms and lounges, into your design to encourage guests to mingle. Then, take it to the next level by using activities and gamification techniques throughout your event to promote networking.
Book Amazing Entertainment to Wow Your Guests
Everyone loves to be entertained, which is why booking amazing entertainment is one of the easiest NYC event strategies you can use to wow even the hardest-to-impress guests. Fortunately, NYC is teeming with incredible performers, from mentalists to fire dancers. Choose entertainment that appeals to your guests, and don’t be afraid to go big!
Appeal to the Senses
As an NYC event planner, boredom is your enemy. Once your guests’ minds start to wander, your event is doomed. Thankfully, creating an immersive sensory experience is a sure-fire way to boost engagement. Think about ways to engage all the senses as you design your event. From incredible audio and visual effects to tactile walls and delicious foods, immersive sensory experiences help your guests stay present, entertained, and engaged in your event.
Be More Eco-Friendly
Demand for eco-friendly events is growing rapidly, with 81% of event attendees expressing a willingness to pay a higher price for eco-friendly events. Further, 69% of event guests report wanting more opportunities to connect with nature. Tap into this demand by offering eco-friendly events that provide nature-based experiences and emphasize your commitment to sustainability.
Create Meaningful Experiences
Today’s event attendees place a higher value on experiences than event merchandise, so plan your events accordingly. Offer opportunities for your guests to try new technology, connect with in-demand speakers, or take a culinary adventure. Activities based on wellness, such as yoga and meditation, are often a big hit, too. If your guests leave your event feeling like they’ve just experienced something truly transformational, you can bet they’ll be back for more and may even bring a friend!
Follow Up with Your Guests
Finally, one of the most crucial NYC event strategies to boost attendee engagement is simply to follow up with your guests. Ask them directly what they loved, what didn’t work, and what they’d like you to offer in the future. Guests appreciate you taking the time to listen to their feedback, and you gain valuable insight into your target audience.
Learn More Strategies to Boost Engagement at The Expo
As NYC’s premier networking event and trade show, The Event Planner Expo offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn event strategies from the best of the best. Don’t miss your chance to gain a leg up on the competition. Purchase your tickets today!
