Business owners often forego seminars and conferences because they lack the time or don’t see the value in these events. However, attending and organizing these sessions offers several benefits for your company. Here is a quick guide on business seminar planning, from picking an engaging topic to choosing the right hall rentals or venue. 

What Are the Benefits of Business Seminars?

Business seminars may feature successful entrepreneurs who share their breakthrough stories or impart marketing strategies. For startups and small businesses, these seminars are an opportunity to pick up best practices that can help them expand their own enterprises. It’s also an excellent way to build new connections.

For seminar organizers, these events present a networking opportunity. They can showcase their expertise to attendees, which may include potential clients. They can also hold these events to attract more investors for their companies.

How Do You Organize a Business Seminar?

Many considerations will come into play when you plan a seminar, but here are the aspects you need to prioritize:

• Establish the Topic or Agenda: Choose a topic that resonates with your target clients or attendees. You can also pick a theme and break it down into several topics. Try to come up with witty or catchy event titles too. For example, instead of naming a session, "Facebook for Ice Cream Businesses," you can use "How Social Media Can Expand the Reach of an Ice Cream Business."

• Know Your Budget: Seminar planners have to consider a lot when budgeting for these events, from hall rentals to food, transportation, and even fees for speakers. If the company has limited funds for the event, you may have to look for sponsorships or raise funds, such as through ticket selling. 

• Invite Speakers: Featuring famous speakers can generate interest in your event, and effective lecturers will engage your attendees. So choose your speakers well, and get their confirmation as early as possible. Keep in mind that speakers often have fees and may need food, lodging, and transportation for the event. Discuss these factors with each resource person, and build these expenses into your budget.

• Choose a Venue: When deciding on hall rentals, get clear about the type of event you want. Do you want it to be formal or casual? How many attendees are you expecting? What facilities do you need? For example, do you want one huge hall plus smaller rooms for breakout sessions? Is the venue accessible for your target guests?

When setting up your business seminar, look to the St. Louis Alumni Association (SLAA) in Honolulu, HI, for the venue. Their hall rentals are suitable for a host of occasions, from class reunions and parties to community organization meetings, and can host up to 225 people. To reserve a hall, call (808) 949-6633, or visit their website for more details on their options.