Getting Your Event Attention

By: Kristen Paquet, Sr. Account Executive, Leonard & Finco Public Relations

There is a lot of stuff going on. Events, programs, concerts, tours – they are all vying for our attention and attendance. So what are the best ways to promote an event so you don’t get lost in the crowd? Here are a few tips I have found to be successful:

Develop a calendar listing. A calendar listing should include the event name, date, time, location, web address and a brief overview of what will happen. If there is a cost, be sure that is included as well. Send the calendar listing to local newspapers that have a community events section. They will appreciate getting all of the information at once. You can also use this information to post to online event calendars.

Create a Facebook event. Creating a Facebook event is easy to do. Just add in the details of the event, a website URL and a photo and you’re basically done. The event will show up in your newsfeed so all of your followers can see it and share it with their friends as well. Think of it as a digital word-of-mouth promotion!

Contact local media outlets. Consider reaching out to local media to give you some pre-event coverage. Be sure to tell them about the event and why it would make a good story. Take some time and research reporters and what areas they tend to cover so you are sure you are reaching the right person.

Promote from within. If you are an organization that has people coming through your facility – staff and patrons alike – be sure to take advantage of promoting the event on site by using bulletin boards, post a flyer in a break room, or anywhere else you might highlight daily activities. Share information at staff meetings, in newsletters and even in your email signature.

Promoting your event takes work to be effective, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to put some of these ideas into action. The more time you have to spread the word, the more likely you will reach your audience and get people to attend! Good luck!