How to Make Your Live Event an Experience to Remember
As a producer of live events and conferences, I’ve had the privilege of working with an array of talented artists, including No. 1 Billboard artists, American Idol alumni, Grammy nominees, and more. Throughout my experience, I’ve learned that whether it’s a professional conference or an entertainment production, certain fundamental principles consistently elevate the production value and create an unforgettable experience for attendees.
The Sizzle of the Steak Effect
In my opinion, one of the most important (and easiest) production principles is focusing on what I call the “sizzle of the steak effect.” This refers to the small touches that have a big impact on attendees’ experiences. The name comes from the restaurant industry, where servers bring out a steak on a hot plate with a sizzle created by adding water just before presenting it to the customer. This simple technique creates a “wow” effect that significantly enhances the dining experience.
The same principle applies to live productions. What are the small details you can incorporate to make a big impact? These “sizzle of the steak” elements include:
1. Recorded narration: A well-crafted, pre-recorded narration can add a professional touch and guide attendees through the event seamlessly. Here is an example of an opening narration I developed for a professional conference I produced for a university.
Power to Become Conference Opener Narration
2. Curated background music: Carefully selected music sets the tone and atmosphere, creating an immersive experience for attendees.
3. Tight transitions and flow: Smooth transitions between segments and a well-paced flow keep the audience engaged and prevent lulls in energy.
4. Lighting and attention to detail: Effective use of lighting, screens, and other visual elements can transform a space and create a visually stunning experience.
Engage Your Audience
Creating opportunities for audience engagement is another effective way to make your live event more memorable. Encourage attendees to participate actively in the event by incorporating interactive elements, such as:
1. Q&A sessions: Allocate time for attendees to ask questions and engage with speakers or panelists, fostering a sense of connection and dialogue. The photo above is from a panel discussion I incorporated into a professional development conference I produced in 2023, which included Disney ENCANTO star Adassa on the panel.
2. Live polls and surveys: Use real-time polling and surveys to gather audience feedback, opinions, and insights, making them feel valued and heard.
3. Networking opportunities: Provide dedicated networking sessions or breakout rooms where attendees can connect with one another and build relationships. Some of the most meaningful moments at a conference occur before and after the program.
4. Social media integration: Encourage attendees to share their experiences on social media using event-specific hashtags, and display social media feeds on digital screens to create a sense of community and buzz around your event.
Post-Event Follow-Up
The experience doesn’t end when the live event concludes. To create a lasting impact, it’s essential to follow up with attendees after the event. This can include:
1. Thank-you emails: Send personalized thank-you emails to attendees, expressing your appreciation for their participation and providing any relevant post-event information or resources.
2. Surveys and feedback: Request feedback from attendees through surveys or questionnaires to gather valuable insights and improve future events.
3. Content sharing: Share photos, videos, presentations, and other content from the event with attendees, allowing them to relive the experience and share it with others.
4. Ongoing engagement: Keep the conversation going by providing opportunities for attendees to stay connected, such as through social media groups, newsletters, or future event invitations.
