Five Steps to a Successful Business Conference

Packed with more than 40 museums, iconic architecture, and sightseeing attractions like Willis Tower and Millennium Park, Chicago is an ideal location for hosting a business conference or convention. However, organizing a business conference requires intense foresight and execution. Attention to detail is vital, from car service for attendees to sound equipment for speakers. Here are some vital steps for planning a business conference.

Writing the Business Plan

Unless the conference is being funded by a sponsor or grant, it is imperative to know as early as possible where the money is coming from and how it will be used. The conference’s lineup of speakers will help sell the event to potential registrants. Booking the headliners early can inform the final pricing for tickets.

Selecting the Venue

Since most hotels and conference centers require the use of in-house services for events, planners should set priorities for which features must be included in the price of the venue. For example, McCormick Place offers amenities like a coat check, ATMs, and a business lounge for guests. Alternatively, Donald E. Stephens Convention Center features full banquet catering and bar service for evening networking events.

Determining Transportation and Lodging

A list of on-site or nearby lodging arrangements should be provided for guests to make planning less of a burden. Hotels often offer discounts for large groups. Additionally, planners should hire a car service to easily transport groups between the hotel and venue, or to after-hours networking events.

Marketing the Conference

Attendance is the single most important factor in the success of an event. Moreover, a typical conference hosts a convention floor, exhibition area, or both for sponsors and vendors to rent space and promote their products. An online registration system can seamlessly coordinate and track the number of attendees and vendors.

Addressing Last-minute Details

Conduct a final walk-through of the conference schedule, map of vendors, and amenities from the perspective of a guest to make sure every detail is considered. Imagine how he or she would think and act at each point and refine it accordingly.

Our professional drivers at Echo Limousine are committed to providing the finest limo and luxury car service for business conventions, trade shows, and conferences of any size. Book online or call us directly at (773) 774-1074.