Exec Experience (events)

Prior to COVID, it was relatively easy to get Execs to show up to an experience event (ie, Porsche Experience, exotic car drive followed by a nice dinner, roundtable discussion with peers and a thought leader, etc).

Curious, if anyone has put anything together recently and willing to share the results and budget.

Note: execs = CXOs to high ranking VPs.

I agree that it was easier to engage execs (and clients in general) pre-Covid. Our firm has pivoted away from local market events over the past couple of years - most likely due to the impact from Covid - and we’re more focused on national hospitality events (U.S. Open et al) and firm-owned experiences for executives.

I feel that a specialized, local event like the exotic car experience would definitely draw interest and attendance in today’s climate. It seems to be the roundtable dinners and run-of-the-mill hospitality options that are failing to capture interest.

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Something that worked well for me post-covid, in driving CXO attendance, was planning a virtual wine tasting event, complete with a wine sommelier, who walked us through the various wines and the history of each grape.

Obviously certain States and Countries couldn’t participate but for those that could, the winery sent the bottles of wine, with a complete agenda and description of each bottle (Typically 3-5 bottles).

I tell you, after a few pours, the bond and rapport (And the sense of humor) came out of each person: :wine_glass: = :slightly_smiling_face:. Budget depends on the various wineries you’d consider.

Hope that helps.

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love it Will! Thanks for sharing!

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We combined both concepts. We had local wine or beer tasting events that were well attended. Especially if they get a chance to meet peers and network.

I don’t have data to back it up, but if the travel and hospitality bookings is any indication, people are looking for excuses to get out there. Execs are people too :wink:

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Two quick thoughts, @ran.haimoff:

  1. From an “event run of show” perspective, I’d like to know how you structure an event for, say, a beer or wine tasting. My questions would be: How long is the event? How many attendees? How do you ensure it’s loose, casual and fun while also weaving in chances to “talk shop” and properly network with peers? Basically, how do you achieve the balance of value where it’s fun and also provides career value?

  2. I loved seeing your optimism about execs wanting to get back out there and be social again!