South Africa Event Planning

There are many different types of corporate events to suit each and every occasion or purpose within the workplace. When planning a corporate event, it is vital to know the nature of your function, so that you can plan accordingly.

This list includes the most common and best known events within the corporate world:

Conferences
These are usually larger meetings of people that have a common interest or share a professional sector. These are formal and usually involve a few speakers addressing a large group of professionals. Interaction is somewhat encouraged, but not on the same level as a conversation or seminar.

Seminars
Seminars are held for educational purposes and generally involve smaller groups of people. Interaction is an important part of a seminar, so attendees are given the opportunities to air their opinions or to present questions to speakers on a frequent basis.

Meetings
Meetings can be interactions between two or more people, and are generally held to discuss opportunities and challenges, present concepts or convey information. They can be held for the employees of one organisation or for representatives from different companies. All expenses incurred ( meals and refreshments , for example) are paid for by the host company.

Teambuilding Initiatives
As its name implies, these types of events are held for the motivation and / or training of certain groups of people within the organisation. They are usually smaller so that each individual gets personal attention.

Trade Shows
Theseexhibitions allow companies to showcase and demonstrate their latest products or services. These are taken very seriously by those in the industrial sectors and a lot of money is spent on creating fabulous displays and presentations. Some companies even travel long distances to attend international trade shows.

Press Conferences
These are interviews held specifically for the media and are usually in response to a recent event or rumour, or as an announcement for a new product or service. One representative of the company will hold the press conference and answer the various media questions in a professional, informed manner.

Opening Ceremonies
Any major event, exhibition or annual meeting that will be lasting for more than two working days can be started with an opening ceremony. This will mark the beginning of the event and will set the tone and theme for the following days. Guest speakers and celebrities may be invited to share in the excitement.

Gala Dinners
A gala dinner is a very formal event that is characterised by at least three delicious courses, entertainment and speeches. These are often held in conjunction with an event that has been taking place (such as a conference, charity drive or seminar). Celebrities and guest speakers are usually invited and, sometimes, prizes are awarded. Black tie is the expected dress code for such events.

Product Launches
When a new product is being introduced to the market place, a launch is generally considered to be its first exposure to the public. The product is demonstrated and its relevance, usefulness and contribution to society or industry discussed. The product must be available for purchase at the launch, if possible.

Shareholder Meetings
These annual meetings are held with the purpose of conveying important information to company shareholders about relevant issues and to elect the Board of Directors.

Award Ceremonies
Whether on a large- or small scale, award ceremonies are held to congratulate and express appreciation for those within an organisation that have performed their duties in admirable ways or have exceeded company expectations and demands.

Board Meetings
These are formal gatherings of the Management Board of a company, and are integral in focussing on the organisation’s vision, goals and strategies.

Photo Credit:  Organising An Event