As event planners, we are often focused on standing out from the competition–and for good reason. The event market is intense! But too often, that results in overlooking one of the biggest ways to give your events business a boost: the power of collaboration. Let’s talk about five business benefits of networking in the events industry.
1. You Become Known in the Industry
Attending and actively participating in networking events is one of the best ways to become known in the industry. And that recognition is one of the most useful business benefits of networking. So, if you’ve always thought that your time was better spent competing with other event planners than networking with them, it’s time to reevaluate your mindset.
Simply attending networking events on a regular basis turns you into one of the event planners that everybody knows. So when someone is looking for an event planner, your name will be at the top of their mind. And that’s exactly what you want.
2. Stay Up to Date
In order to thrive in the events industry, you need to stay on top of all the latest trends. That’s why having the opportunity to stay up to date is one of the biggest business benefits of networking in the events industry.
Whether it’s the latest tech gadgets, the most in-demand musical talent, or the new catering business everyone is clamoring to hire, networking with others in the event industry ensures you stay up to date on all the emerging trends. And that means you’ll know exactly what to do to make sure your event draws plenty of attendees and keeps them happy.
3. Form Strategic Partnerships
While it may seem counterintuitive to rub shoulders with the competition, networking gives you the chance to form valuable partnerships with others in the industry. So when someone else is booked solid, they might point clients in your direction and vice versa.
Having a good network of colleagues also helps when you suddenly need new resources and don’t know where to begin. So the next time a client requests a wedding cake made of artisan cheese, or you need contact info for an obscure celebrity, you’ll have knowledgeable people to ask for help. And, of course, being helpful to others in the industry helps your reputation, too. It’s a win-win all around.
4. Use the Power of Collaboration to Meet Client Goals More Successfully
As an event planner, you know how to host an amazing event with all the best bells and whistles. But that doesn’t mean you’re always meeting your client’s goals. In fact, recent research has found that event planners largely overlook design and content, but that’s exactly what companies are holding an event to provide.
Of course, this makes sense if you think about it. As event planners, our expertise is, naturally, in planning the event. We aren’t experienced with the company itself, its products, or its industry knowledge. And that’s why it’s critical to collaborate with your client’s marketing team. Working together enables you to both pull off an incredible event and be sure everything the client wants to be highlighted shines through.
5. Find New Event Clients and Sponsors
Attendees at networking events aren’t limited to other event planners. In fact, you’ll meet a wide range of attendees at industry events. And that provides you with the perfect opportunity to find new clients and speakers. So attend networking events as often as you can, and get your name out there!
The Event Planner Expo is the top networking event in NYC, offering you an unparalleled opportunity to network with other event planning professionals and build collaborative relationships. Get your tickets today!
