By Terry Matthews-Lombardo, CMP
Eight Tips for “Newbies” O
kay - you met all the challenges your boss could spin at you last year in effi ciently and creatively planning every last event thrown at you faster than the speed of sound and with less budget than you thought humanly possible. So, how could you grow even more as a planner this year? Well, what if the boss wants a golf tournament tossed into the event mix this time, and “oh, by the way, there’s no money in the budget… but, you can still put one together, right, oh-mighty-and marvelous-planner-of-mine?” Never mind that you’ve never even stepped foot on a golf course, let alone gone to a driving range to swing a club! (Gulp. Deep breath.) Time to do some research and perform another meeting planning miracle, so here are some quick tips for establishing the basics needed for successful tournament implementation: 1. Determine the purpose of your event - is it fundraising, teambuilding or just recreational play?
2. Is there a theme, or can you give it a creative title working with your pre-established con- ference theme? (This gives it an identity and helps to create some ‘marketing buzz’ in your media.)
3. Establish an attendee profi le, i.e. are your players novice, experienced, or do you have a mixed group? (This could help determine the type of course you choose and the length of time your players need to get through 18 holes)
4. In choosing a location, think through all the details of transportation needs and timing of the entire event (including that transportation). Once established, this will also de- termine any needs you may have to include for catering/beverage considerations. TIP: if you’re bussing for any distance, consider the addition of snacks/beverages during transit. Golfers get thirsty and need plenty of hydration, especially if playing during hot summer months.
5. Most golf courses have a resident tournament director and/or golf pro who is there to as- sist with all tournament needs, and their services are included in the per person price you negotiate with the course. Make sure to enlist their help, especially if you’re not a golfer yourself.
6. Consider reaching out to tournament partners for things such as hole sponsors, goodie bags and giveaways as well as prizes. This could be from among your normal membership but could also include local businesses or companies that specialize in sports and want to reach your audience or support your chosen fundraising cause. You can also think outside
68 MIDWEST MEETINGS SPRING 2013
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