For over a decade, I’ve offered to work with anyone that wants help and support developing their personal network. While the number fluctuates, I’m generally working with around 300 people at any given time.
One of the most common questions I receive has to do with getting people to attend social events.
Here are a few basic guidelines to help you make your next social event a winner:
- Define Success: There are many reasons to host a social event. Whatever the reason, you need to identify the people most critical to the success of your event and then build your event around the value they’ll receive by attending.
- Clarify the Ground Rules: If you are hosting a genuine social event, make it clear. Too often, attendees assume “time-share” rules, where the true cost of admission is listening to a pitch about something you have to offer. Your invitation should state that your event is a social, leave-your-title-at-the-door
- 100 for 10, for a Few: Ratios are the key. Inviting a large number of people to populate a 10-person dinner is not uncommon. So, don’t be shy about the number of invitations you send out.
- Intrinsic Value of Invitations: Remember, just inviting someone to an event is a generous act. Event if your invitee says no, you’ve shown value in the relationship.
- Ask for Help: Calendar conflicts may stop people from attending your event, so if someone declines, reach out and ask them if they know someone else that might benefit from what your event has to offer.
Here’s hoping your next event is a smashing success!
