10 Most Common Types of Corporate Events
Companies host corporate events to bring employees, clients, the media and the public together. Some corporate events are educational; others are all about providing people with updates and information about the company’s developments.
Here is our list of the 10 most common types of corporate events.
Seminars and conferences
Seminars and conferences make up the majority of all corporate events. Their primary purpose is to provide guests with new and relevant information about the industry and company in question.
Seminars are often shorter, standalone events that don’t last more than a few hours. Participants gather in the same space, and the number of speakers is usually limited as well.
Conferences are big events that comprise multiple sessions. They can go on for days, which is one of the main reasons why they’re usually held at hotels. It’s not uncommon to have several sessions taking place at the same time.
Trade shows
Think of trade shows as an opportunity for companies to showcase their products and services to a huge audience. Several members of a particular industry come together to discuss and engage in some healthy competition over the course of a few days. Local trade shows may be held at a local arena or hotel, allowing businesses to connect with multiple prospects at once.
Trade shows usually consist of workshops and presentations, as well as plenty of evening networking events. The media and popular influencers are also involved. Exhibitors pay to have their booth set up while attendees pay a small entrance/attendance fee.
Incentive programmes and executive retreats
These are not programmes that every business can afford. High-profile companies spend millions on exclusive executive retreats and incentive programmes that are held at luxury resorts all around the world.
Why? Well, these events provide organisations with the most visibility and recognition. While business development and planning are the main subjects of these programmes, equal weight is given to expensive and enjoyable activities.
Golf events
There’s a reason why so many people consider golf the sport of business. Great for making connections and building relationships, golf events are a favourite among many organisations.
The relaxed environment and laid-back atmosphere allow guests to form strong bonds and seal deals that would otherwise seem impossible. That being said, corporate golf events can be quite a challenge to plan and execute properly. High green fees can exhaust your budget, and challenging courses can exhaust your guests; choose wisely!
Appreciation Events
Less common than other types of events, appreciation events allow hosts to spend some quality time with clients or employees. The purpose of appreciation events is to bring people together and discuss new business opportunities.
Appreciation events are not valued nearly as much as they should. Although they don’t provide companies with new leads or instant revenue, they give the hosts a unique opportunity to display the company’s culture in the most favourable light.
Appreciation events are meant to be fun and laid-back and are the least business-related events of all business meetings. Some appreciation programs include dinner and theatre, evening cruises, racetrack events, cocktail parties, unique holiday festivities, and so much more; the possibilities are endless.
Company milestone events
Similar to appreciation events, company milestone events are a cause for celebration. Depending on the company’s size and public presence, the execution may vary. These events may be limited to company employees or may include key clients and figures. Some kind of media coverage and public presence may also help spread the word about the business’ success.
Team-building events
Team-building events are some of the most important events that every business should consider hosting from time to time. Their primary purpose is to boost employee confidence and morale. They provide employees with a unique opportunity to come together and explore more about each other in a non-stress-inducing, non-work environment.
Depending on the business and interests of the employees, team-building events can take on a multitude of forms. From outdoor and physical group activities to unique indoor initiatives, nothing is off-limits.
Play a game or organise a themed karaoke night. How about a unique team lunch at one of the team’s favourite restaurants? Sensitivity training and workshops about emotions should also be on the table.
Product launch events
Nothing’s more exciting for a business than launching a brand new product or service. Product launch events aim to inform employees, clients and media about the company’s recent developments. The goal is to create a buzz among both customers and the media about what’s to come.
Product launch events often begin with a flashy introduction of the new product and a word from the company’s executives. There are plenty of opportunities for people and the media to take a closer look and ask questions about the product itself.
Big parties and fun activities often accompany product launch events. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out Apple’s special events.
Board and shareholder meetings
Arguably the most boring of the lot, board and shareholder meetings are essential to all businesses. These meetings aim to inform board members and shareholders about the company’s performance, allowing them to make important decisions about the company’s future. Think of board meetings as an opportunity to discuss the business’ strategies, goals, and future developments.
Depending on the industry and individual business, these meetings are held annually, biannually, or in some cases, even quarterly. They come in many shapes and sizes, from small internal meetings to lavish and prestigious large-scale events.
Charity events
Charity events provide companies with the most powerful fundraising channel. Charity events are amazing public-image boosters and show that you’re not just all about business. Not only are charity events beneficial to the local community, but they also boost employee morale and put your company’s name out there.
These events can include several activities, most of which will revolve around the local community. Businesses often need to make good use of their network to ensure word of the event gets out.
Those were 10 of the most common types of corporate events. All are important, but each one serves a different purpose in the world of business.
Are you considering organising a corporate event soon? Here are our 10 tips for choosing the perfect venue for the occasion! [Links to Top Tips for Choosing the Perfect Meeting Venue blog]
