Tip #1: Distribute Your Presentation
If you are inviting a guest speaker to make a presentation at your conference/workhop... or if you are making the presentation yourself.... try to make a copy of your presentation available. You will find that many people in attendance will want a copy to peruse at a later date. You can make your presentation available as a hard copy to hand out at the meeting itself, or supply an electronic copy for distribution afterwards. If choosing the electronic route, remember that not everyone has the same software you do (e.g. Powerpoint) ... or cannot receive large files by e-mail. Consider making a PDF version of the file.

Tip #2: Timing is Important
If you are planning a one day workshop for the municipal sector, attendance will be much improved if you promote your event at least six weeks in advanced of the workshop. Several have to get approval and fit it into their schedule.

If you are planning a conference of two or more days start planning very early. In many cases the registration fee must become a budget item. We suggest you start promotion five to six months in advance.

Tip #3: Do Your Homework
Take time after your meeting to evaluate the session. Ask participants how they felt it went. Use this information to increase the productivity of future seminars and workshops.

Tip #4: Keep it informative and enjoyable!
People attending a conference, workshop or seminar expect to enjoy themselves, be entertained and learn new ideas in a positive atmosphere. Keep these points in mind when planning your presentation.

Tip #5: Marketing 101!
Creating an initial marketing plan gives you a blueprint for how to accomplish your event objectives and gives you a way to measure your progress. You should create the marketing plan as early as possible in the planning stage. It is never too early to start!