The Art of Corporate Entertainment: A Strategic Guide for Success
Jeff Newman explains the art of corporate entertainment, an essential tool for success.
Corporate events have come a long way. What used to be just a few drinks and a cheap meal with some co-workers has evolved into powerhouses of engagement, networking, (also known by the technical term, “schmoozing”) and, increasingly, entertainment.
And while most organizations are adding entertainment to their events for fun, corporate entertainment has also increasingly become a strategic tool. It’s a way to nurture relationships, reinforce brand identity, and foster an environment where collaboration and innovation can thrive. So, let’s take a deep-dive into the vibrant world of corporate entertainment, peppered with pragmatic tips and inside tricks that are as essential as a good magician at a company gala!
Understanding the Upside of Upscale Events
Imagine a corporate event as a grand narrative—each guest, a character; each element, a plot device. Now, the entertainment? It's the captivating twist that develops the story's emotional arc. Is this analogy a tad dramatic? Absolutely. But the truth is that every second you entertain your employees, guests, or potential business contacts is a second you command attention and influence.
A well-planned event isn't just a night of illusions and laughter; it's a strategic move, positioning your company as a thought leader, a community builder, or perhaps an innovator. It's word-of-mouth marketing on steroids—memorable moments that extend far beyond the venue and schedule.
Crafting an Unforgettable Experience
Nobody wants to have a boring, stuffy. Your event must be an experience, not a time slot in everyone's Outlook calendar. Think of it as crafting a symphony—corporate partners, HR, and your entertainers are the players, and you're the conductor ensuring they harmonize perfectly.
Start with the end in mind; what do you want people to say about your event? How will they feel leaving the venue? How do you want them to remember it days, weeks, months, or even years down the road? These considerations guide your choice of entertainment and theme. It's not just about matching the tenor of the night with the whims of your delegates but also about showcasing the soul of your brand with class and creativity.
Entertainment isn't a bolted-on gimmick; it's an integral part of the corporate event design that should resonate with your company's culture and reflect the ethos you're aiming to instill.
Why Magic Is A Perfect Option
Magicians, mentalists, and illusionists have long held a special allure in the world of corporate entertainment, and for good reason. Not only is a good magician entertaining, but a magic show relies on audience engagement, which is a perfect way to get the rest of the people in the room interacting with each other. Magicians have the unique ability to create shared moments of astonishment and wonder. Such moments can be worth a thousand loyal clients, employees, or partners.
Plus, magic at an event can take many forms—from the drama and spectacle of a stage act to intimate experiences created by a close-up magician, adding magic to your event is a versatile way to engage your audience. The real trick is that magic has the unique ability to bring people together. Not sure what to go with? Luckily for you, I’ve already put together an article that should help you out.
Putting on the Show with Panache
Great acts are not just about the performance but also about the production. The right staging, lighting, and sound quality can elevate a good show into a great one, and it's vital that this isn’t overlooked. And, a true pro will not only know how to execute this, but will work with you to make sure things go off without a hitch.
Ensure that the entertainment is seamlessly integrated into the event's schedule. A smooth transition and timely start (and end) show respect for your attendees' time. Remember, the spotlight is not just on the entertainers, but on your company—every sloppy moment reflects back on your brand.
Talk with your entertainment beforehand to work out all the details, and find out what you need from each other to put on a smashing event, because…
A Good Entertainer Makes YOU Look Good
Entertainers are not just hired help—they're key associates in this production. Believe it or not, their job isn’t to entertain…it’s to make you look good. It's a collaborative dance, and like any good partnership, clear communication and mutual respect are vital. Share your vision with them, and allow them to infuse their expertise to make the performance truly shine.
Wrapping Up the Corporate Prestidigitation
Corporate entertainment is more than a spectacle; it's a strategic opportunity to reinforce your company's identity and forge lasting connections. It's the brush stroke that can elevate your events into works of art, resonating long after the final curtain falls.
By understanding the power of entertainment, choosing the right performers, crafting a balance of spectacle and subtlety, and evaluating the event's impact, you're not just planning entertainment; you're curating an experience that aligns with your company's vision and goals.
Like an incredible magic trick, entertainment at your event should leave an indelible mark—one that lingers in the minds and hearts of your guests. It is, indeed, a kind of corporate magic. And with the right approach, the spell it casts can echo through the corridors of your business for years to come.
Message me to help you craft an unforgettable experience on your next corporate event!
