Jun
06
2013
How to run a successful event: the event manager rules
These rules, taken from our published book Event Management by Fiona Russell, are fundamental to running a successful event.
1. 10% is a useful figure for event organisers
- always add 10% to everything that costs money
- deduct 10% from all income-generating ideas
- bring 10% more of everything than you need
- remember that whilst 10% of your delegates may not turn up, another 10% may turn up unexpectedly
2. In writing
- whether it is the rooms at the venue, the equipment you require, the numbers for catering or the quantity of leaflets, make sure you put everything in writing
- keep copies of all emails, texts, and correspondence
- ask people to confirm any details or requests in writing
3. Communication
It is not the mistakes you make, but how you deal with them that count.
- apologise, don't justify
- keep people informed
- offer alternatives
- think about how what has happened affects the effectiveness and enjoyment and then make efforts to remedy the problem
4. Just say ‘No'
- only organise an event if you know what you want to achieve and why
- ensure the event objectives are clear and signed off by all concerned
If you want to learn more about running a successful event, or want to improve your event management skills, the Centre has two one-day courses that can help - Event management: an introduction and Event management: intermediate.
You can also purchase our published book, Event management, which complements these courses. This practical book covers all aspects of event management to help you organise events with confidence.
Fiona Russell has worked for the BBC where she was involved in programmes aimed at small and medium business, career and personal development. She project managed multi-media campaigns on radio, TV and online.
