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17 May 2024
Written By Seb

How To Handle Post Event Comms?

You've pulled it off! The event was a hit, attendees are buzzing, and you can finally take a deep breath. But wait, it's not over yet. The real magic happens in the aftermath – post-event communications. This part often gets overlooked, but it's just as crucial as the event itself. Let's dive into how you can master post-event follow-ups, make your attendees feel valued, and keep the momentum going.

The Power of the Post-Event Follow-Up

Event organization is no small feat. It takes a lot of concentration, planning, and effort to get everything just right. But once the event is over, it doesn't mean your work is done. In fact, the period immediately following your event is a golden opportunity to engage with your attendees, gather feedback, and set the stage for future events.

Think of it this way: you've just spent all this time and energy creating a fantastic experience for your audience. Why let that connection fade away the moment the event ends? By following up, you show attendees that you value their participation and are committed to continuous improvement.

Thank You Emails: More Than Just Politeness

First things first – the thank you email. It's simple, it's polite, and it sets the tone for future interactions. But don't settle for a generic message. Personalize it. Mention specific highlights or insights from the event. If you can, address the attendee by name and refer to something specific they contributed or enjoyed. This small touch can make a big difference in how your message is received.

Gathering Feedback: The Path to Perfection

Feedback is your best friend when it comes to improving future events. But how do you get it? Surveys are a tried-and-true method. Keep them short and sweet – nobody wants to fill out a 20-minute questionnaire. Ask about the overall experience, specific sessions, and any areas for improvement.

Use tools like Google Forms, SurveyMonkey, or Typeform to create engaging surveys. And don't forget to incentivize! Offer a small reward, like a discount on future events or a chance to win a prize, to encourage participation.

Questions to consider:

• What was your favorite part of the event?
• Was there anything you found challenging or less enjoyable?
• Do you have any suggestions for future events?

Share the Highlights: Keep the Buzz Alive

Your event might be over, but that doesn't mean the excitement has to end. Share highlights and memorable moments on your social media channels and blog. Post photos, videos, and quotes from speakers or attendees. This not only keeps the buzz alive but also serves as great promotional material for future events.

Create a dedicated post-event page on your website where attendees can relive the event. Include a photo gallery, video recordings of sessions, and downloadable resources like presentations or whitepapers. This content is valuable for those who attended and enticing for those who missed out.

Stay Connected: Nurturing Relationships

Building a community around your events is key to long-term success. Use post-event communications to nurture these relationships. Invite attendees to join your newsletter, follow your social media accounts, or become part of a members-only group where they can network and share ideas.

Regularly update them with relevant content, upcoming events, and industry news. This keeps your brand top-of-mind and positions you as a valuable resource in your field.

Planning the Next Event: Keep the Cycle Going

Lastly, start planning your next event. Use the feedback you've gathered to make improvements and tailor your next event to your audience's needs. Announce the new event early and give your past attendees a special early-bird discount or exclusive access to registration.

Handling post-event communications effectively can transform a one-time attendee into a loyal participant. By showing appreciation, gathering feedback, keeping the buzz alive, nurturing relationships, and planning ahead, you create a continuous cycle of engagement and improvement. So, take a deep breath, dive into those follow-ups, and watch your event community grow!