Planning an event can be a lot of work – but also a lot of fun! May I share a “secret” ingredient that I found helps to make it worth the work and contribute to the fun? Make it a game by focusing on the details and not concentrating on getting recognition for what you do.
I smiled as I worked on the final details for the Chamber Celebration – I loved my job as the chamber director! I had finished attaching all of the oval-shaped tags up on the wall in the banquet room. This was something new for chamber members to participate in. Each tag listed an individual chamber member’s name. That night, everyone who found their name could put it in the specially marked basket for a cash drawing.
I discovered it was fun to plan events without expecting or wanting recognition. I “played” a game, more or less, with myself, trying to do the little things that made a difference. I tried to have them just seemingly blend in with or appear at the event. For example, while it took a little time to cut out the tags and handwrite the 100+ names, I did it without asking for help. I wanted it to be a surprise for the chamber board and members.
It is important to plan events with encouraging themes and enjoyable activities. Part of the “game” is to concentrate on behind-the-scene actions with special attention to details. All the details together create the whole event, so focus on how people can enjoy the event and be happy they attended.
Small details can make a big impact.
The following three action steps have helped me to create memorable events.
1. Look for the little details that can enhance the event. It can be as simple as handwriting the invitations to the organization’s annual banquet. Or creating little party favors filled with candy in colors that coordinate with the overall appearance in the banquet room.
2. Make a list (several lists may be needed to be created, depending on the type and size of event). Check off each item as it is completed – and watch the satisfaction grow as the check marks grow on the list.
3. Don’t look for the glory, but do what needs to be done without seeking obvious recognition. When a job is completed with excellence, people will notice. The satisfaction for me came in having people comment how much they liked the event.
Planning an event can be a lot work, but also a lot of fun! Behind-the-scene actions help create end results that can make an event memorable to those who attend!