Getting a little antsy about planning chapter events?

Chapter events are among the most important tools you have for recruiting  and motivating members.  BUT event planning can make even the most calm person a little antsy. Here's a few tips to help you relax about planning your 2018 events.

1. Know that there is no magic formula for the number of chapter events to host in a year; however, don't make one event the catchall. One event cannot appeal to everyone!
2. Survey members or have a brainstorming session at the beginning of the planning year to find out what members are interested in and what they expect to get out of chapter membership.
3. Select the dates for events well in advance and start promoting the events early and often. Great publicity and marketing are the key to a successful event. Promote with mass chapter emails, social media, newsletter, fliers, word of mouth.
4. Create a team and divide and conquer. Assign portions of the event to each team member. You can never have enough help.
5. Keep event cost reasonable and stay within your budget.
6. Brand all events. Brainstorm names. Create a tagline(branding slogan).
7. Seek corporate sponsors to fund a portion of events.
8. Photograph everything! Positive photos demonstrate the success of an event.
9. Send the event recap out ASAP.
10. Thank everyone-  attendees, sponsors, your team, EVERYONE!

 
 And THANK YOU for your support of your professional organization!