What should your company do if they need to plan
a large event in record time? Here’s how, as part of the Johnson Controls team,
we helped host President Obama.
Top event planning tips from our partner Jessica Westra,
of Jessica Westra Media Relations:
- Take the initiative: Be proactive and always think how you can best support the client.
Remember, some decisions have to be made on the spot to keep plans moving
forward.
- Events can come down to the vendors: Do your homework ahead of time and find vendors
who have a great reputation, are reliable and can be available at a moment’s
notice. Once you’ve found them, communicate your vision and trust them to make
decisions.
- Have a great attitude and be flexible: Adopt a “whatever it takes” attitude although,
you also need to say ‘no’ sometimes.
- Get Creative: Don’t get stuck thinking your way is the only
way. Listen to your team and find creative solutions for challenging
situations.
- Equip yourself: Have a list of contacts, vendors and a schedule
handy in your back pocket, your smart phone in one hand and clipboard in the
other.
- Camp out: Familiarize yourself with the event, facility
and people involved.
- Be accessible: During the event check e-mail, answer your cell
phone and always be available for questions.
“It was an inspiring once-in-a-lifetime event,”
said Westra. “The President bestowed a great honor on Johnson Controls and the
local community of Holland.”
“All of us at MOVE agree,” said Don Hart,
President of MOVE Communications who was also at the event. “It’s not every day
you can say that your work was seen by the President.”
*Photography taken by Morgan Anderson, http://www.morgan-anderson.com/