For most attendees, an event’s success will be determined as much by the connections that they make as much as by the information and entertainment provided. It is easy for an event planner to lose sight of the networking angle while focusing on the important logistics and practicalities that are associated with event planning.

When you put time and thought into facilitating networking opportunities, your event will as much more likely to be perceived as a success. Here are some practical tips to ensure that you give your event attendees every chance to come together.

1. Allow sufficient regular breaks between sessions.  Allowing space between sessions or presentations allows attendees to relax and mingle informally. Not only does this allow opportunities for people to meet each other it also will help people get more out of the formal sessions

2. Create online buzz by creating an event community through a social media platform such as LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook. This simple strategy can allow for people to break the ice with strangers online and arrange to meet them face to face at the event.

3. Don’t forget name badges. These simple tools take some of the awkwardness of attendees away and make it easier for people to connect. Ideally name badges should contain key information including the attendees full name, and company.

4. Provide a photo opportunity using a branded media wall. Media walls make an excellent focus point in common areas and a great ice breaker. Providing the opportunity to have photos taken at the event allows people to congregate in the area and strike up conversations. As the event progresses, the photo opportunities are likely to become more informal as people become more comfortable in the environment. Canny use of the media wall, photo opportunities, branding and social media can help to provide your event with extra publicity and credibility.

5. Create a first time attendees area to encourage networking between attendees who are new to your event and perhaps experiencing some understandable shyness and nervousness.

6. Encourage people to stay in the event premises. Provide quality tea and coffee during breaks and have a central hub that encourages interaction.

7. Consider offering voluntary lunchtime activities that will help to break down barriers and encourage conversation. These activities don’t even necessarily have to be related to the event itself.
   

The key with bringing people together is to encourage interaction as much as possible. By allowing space within the event for people to meet others in an informal and relaxed way you will give them the opportunity to establish relationships that they will believe to be worthwhile. The relationships that they form will ultimately determine they’re perceived value of your event. Give your attendees the chance to come together and reap the rewards for a well run event.