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Downside of concerts as client appreciation events

Posted on 10. Oct, 2008 by p syrek in Events

The goals for any customer appreciation event are fairly standard across the board.  The event is a “thank you” for business.  You want the clients to have a good time, but more importantly (for your ROI) you want time to socialize and bond with your clients.  Over a few drinks and in a relaxed, fun atmosphere, you are going to hear needs, concerns and future business opps… which may not have been openly shared back at the office. 

WHERE CONCERTS FALL SHORT: Concerts are awesome but they are restrictive as well.  For example:  You are “rocking on” with your clients at a U2 concert.  Everyone is having a blast as the walls literally shake from the guitar blaring.

“How’s the wife and kids?”

“What?”

“I said how are the wife and kids?”

“Yeah U2 is great”

“No, how is the wife and kids Mr. Smith?”

“Yes, my dog’s surgery went well.  Thanks for asking.”

Did that conversation  sound confusing?  Was there any communication?

The point is this.  Concerts are exciting but they restrict your ability to speak and bond with your clients. Either the music is too loud or clients don’t want to talk while the music is playing.  (After all they are there to hear a concert) So you are left with a few short breaks to actually speak with your clients.  Often during those breaks the clients are trying to hit the rest room, so they don’t miss the rest of the concert.

Options: Arrange for either a pre-party or post-party, so you have ample time to bond with your customers.  A post-party is a wiser choice.  First, if you have a pre-party, clients may come late and miss it.  Second, clients will be in a great mood as they will be recapping the concert and showering you with their appreciation.

Tags: appreciation, client, concerts, corporate, customer, event, tips