Abercrombie & Fitch – The Challenge 2023
In today’s high-stakes environment, corporate events must do more than impress—they need to deliver measurable ROI. C-Suite executives play a crucial role in setting clear goals, planning effectively, and allocating resources wisely.
At Bartha, we want to help you get the most out of your event, so we’ve compiled six essential strategies to maximize ROI and create impactful experiences.
1. SET CLEAR, MEASURABLE OBJECTIVES
Every successful event starts with clear goals—this is how we begin our Bartha process. Are you aiming to drive lead generation, strengthen client relationships, or boost brand awareness? Define specific KPIs, such as attendee feedback, engagement levels, or brand awareness. This clarity keeps your event aligned with broader business objectives and sets the foundation for measuring ROI effectively.
2. UNCOVER ATTENDEE ENGAGEMENT GOALS
To deliver a valuable experience, it is imperative to understand what your attendees hope to gain. Conduct pre-event surveys or stakeholder interviews to gauge priorities and pain points. Whether they’re seeking knowledge, networking, or new opportunities, tailoring your event to these needs ensures attendees find value, which boosts engagement and the likelihood of achieving your goals.
3. STREAMLINE PLANNING WITH CLEAR DEADLINES AND MEETINGS
Keeping a corporate event on track requires rigorous planning. Set regular check-ins and deadlines to maintain momentum and stay aligned with objectives. Weekly or bi-weekly meetings help catch any emerging issues early and keep all team members focused. With organized workflows, your team can navigate the complexities of event planning without losing sight of what matters most.
4. LEVERAGE SMART BUDGETING & STRATEGIC VENUE CHOICES
Maximizing ROI means investing strategically, focusing on elements that support core event goals. Combining events—when possible—is an effective approach to enhance impact while reducing costs.
For example, Bartha helped the NCAA combine two annual events into a single, immersive experience by transforming an elegant symphony hall with an adaptable stage design and compelling visuals. We helped create a space that seamlessly transitioned between a business meeting and an awards ceremony—maximizing resources, boosting attendee engagement, and delivering a cohesive, memorable experience for all.
Additionally, Bartha transformed the Dayton Arcade into a vibrant “Campus Streets” neighborhood for the University of Dayton’s Advancement Division. By strategically placing stages, incorporating inspiring performances, and optimizing the venue’s acoustics and visuals, we delivered a seamless experience that not only engaged the in-person audience but also reached a global audience through live-streaming. Reaching over 400 attendees, this innovative approach generated significant ROI for the Advancement Division.
Choosing venues with built-in stages, AV equipment, and flexible layouts can similarly optimize budgets while elevating the attendee experience.
5. USE TECHNOLOGY TO ENHANCE ENGAGEMENT
Event technology offers powerful tools for tracking engagement and creating interactive experiences. To keep attendees involved, integrate event apps, live polls, or virtual Q&A sessions. Data from these tools can provide insights into which sessions resonated most, allowing you to refine future events and maximize engagement.
6. BUILD POST-EVENT MOMENTUM
The ROI of an event doesn’t end when the lights go down. Post-event follow-ups—such as thank-you emails, event recaps, and exclusive offerings—keep attendees engaged and reinforce the value of the experience. Use data from your KPIs to assess what worked and identify areas for improvement, turning every event into a learning opportunity for even greater returns in the future.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Corporate events can be a significant investment, but with a strategic approach and expert team, you can maximize the impact. By setting clear objectives, engaging your audience, planning meticulously, and using technology and follow-up strategies, your events can drive measurable results that support your business goals. Ready to elevate your next corporate event?
