Where Do I Start?

Did you know that Infolink can hand out tickets to your event for you? It’s true!

But let’s back up for a minute… So you know your group wants to hold an event. But where do you start?

First of all, start early to allow yourself time for the challenges and roadblocks that every event planner inevitably encounters. Below are some guidelines and steps you should take when planning any event to minimize those hiccups. Also be sure to check out the side menu for information on other specific types of events and additional steps you should take.

Brainstorm Ideas and Set Goals

• Set clear goals about what you aim to accomplish with the event. Ideally, how many people would you like to attend? What do you want them to gain from the event?
• Use your imagination and have fun at this stage!

Plan the Event

• Ok so you’ve decided on your goals for the event. Time to figure out how you’re going to achieve them.
• Consider your venue, what type of food and beverage you would like, and how many people will be attending.
• Create a schedule for the event and the overall event features

Create a Budget

• What can you actually afford to do?
• Check out the “Event Budget Template” under the Resources on our website to help you get through this step.
• Input your estimated costs for the details you have already planned, such as venue and food costs.

Logistics

• Make a timeline! Lay out specific goals leading up to your event.
• Do some marketing and promotion
• Recruit and train volunteers, if you need them
• Ensure that you are following all the University's policies and procedures that are applicable

Check out the side menu for more information on specific types of events!

Marketing

Did you know that marketing is more than just printing out a few cool posters?

One of the keys to a successful event is a well promoted event and group. Take a look at these marketing basics below to get you started, or download our marketing and postering resources for even more tips and tricks.

Target Market

First off, your group should figure out who the target audience for the group and/or event will be. This maybe something very specific and small (like students taking a specific course or area of study), to larger and more broad groups (even the general public!). Either way, it is important to know where you will cater your efforts. Because, if you don’t target someone, you might engage no one.

Aspects to think about for Student Groups’ Target Market:

• Demographic
• Psychographic (i.e. similar attitudes, lifestyles, hobbies)
• Program of Study or Department
• Career Goals
• Time Commitment availability

Engagement and Advertising

Now that you know who you want to engage, it’s time to figure out how you are going to do this. Start by trying to find common characteristics of the people in your target market.

Here are some things for your group to think about whilst planning for advertising:

• Branding your Group/Event
• Social Media Marketing (such as Facebook, Twitter and blogs)
• Posters
• And don't forget about your budget!

Speaking of postering, HERE are some hanging guidelines