Client entertainment can be pivotal in keeping your working-partnerships… working, particularly when it comes to building long term, positive and genuine relationships that extend beyond simple boardroom small talk. Good corporate hospitality - at sporting or cultural events – is at the core of successful client entertainment.
So, what should you be looking for in corporate hospitality? And, is a successful day-out about more than just choosing the right event?
Choosing the Right Hospitality Event
The term corporate hospitality can mean anything; from a couple of free drinks at a local football match, right up to packages for dinners, exclusive access and unparalleled service at a Premier League game.
However, the best package in the world isn’t going to impress your clients if they’re not interested in the event itself. For example, Ascot Corporate Hospitality (be it for Royal Ascotor another race day) is a fantastic day out, but not the best choice for somebody with zero interest in horse racing. Be sure to understand your clients’ needs before choosing your event. This will help ensure the idea of the event is exciting for your guests and so you’re more likely to get positive feedback on uptake and good engagement in advance of the event itself.
Understanding Package Choices
Once you’ve chosen the right corporate event, it’s time to choose the package.
There are a few different elements to consider when picking your package – the first being the time of day the package is available. For example, we have corporate hospitality packages available at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show for a light breakfast and lunch, afternoon tea or dinner. Each package offers a different experience, and choosing more than one can be a quite savvy if you want to fit in a couple waves of corporate entertainment with different teams or guests.
Again, the type of package chosen could be dependant on the guest – sit down meals aren’t for every client and some might benefit from live shows (such as Warner Edward’s Gin Masterclass with Le Lily Regale package or a live saxophonist and DJ set with La Tulip package).
Working with a hospitality assistant to build a client profile can help you choose both the right event and the right package.
Corporate Hospitality in 2019 and Beyond
Corporate hospitality is growing in prominence, as venues and events within the UK come to understand the blend between social and working time.
As always, Royal Ascot and the RHS Chelsea Flower Show are perfect events to engage guests, but there are other new and unique opportunities at locations such as Hampden Park, Brighton’s AMEX Stadium and Knebworth House to check out – all of which offer different types of event to suit all types of client.
Be sure to find out more about each venue and to pick the perfect event for your clients!