Event planning best practices, event fails, & hybrid events: a conversation with Joe Kowalsky, of CloserStill Media

Kevin Lee interviews Joe Kowalsky, Show Director at CloserStill Media, a London-based company that produces industry-specific events with a focus on the Business Technologies, Healthcare, Transportation, and Infrastructure sectors. As Joe’s LinkedIn profile explains, he has subject matter expertise in “large-scale event management, sponsorship, sales management, integrated marketing, cold-calling, project management, business development, contract negotiations, and client relationship management (CRM).” Kevin and Joe discuss numerous topics related to events and event planning, including: - The dynamics of event funding, including sponsorship and exhibitor revenue, and the optimal balance between these models versus conference revenue streams. - The importance of knowing the target demographic and creating an event that caters to their needs, rather than just focusing on revenue generation. - The challenges of maintaining strong relationships with content partners, particularly when they lack subject matter experts on their team. - Why it’s important to be a supportive and consultative event producer, checking in with speakers beforehand to offer stage tips and provide a guide. - The shift among event organizers towards making event content available post-event, benefiting both speakers and attendees. - Why event organizers must balance providing intimate, highly-qualified content with large-scale entertainment and networking opportunities to keep attendees engaged and satisfied. - Common event fails, such as poorly designed badges and registration snafus, that can be easily fixed with simple solutions. - The potential of QR codes as a green alternative to printed materials in the events industry. - Why hybrid events, which often promise an equivalent user experience for both in-person and online attendees, have not yet been successfully implemented. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices