I have worked on inviting the media to a number of hospitality events over the past few months and now that I have completed the last of them I have been wondering just how effective they actually are? I have always been of the school of thought, that hospitality events are an excellent way to build relationships with the media. They offer a great foot in the door when trying to meet someone for the first time or to build a relationship but I am increasingly finding them hard work. Is this just me or are any of you guys and gals out there experiencing a similar trend?
I have worked on generating interest with the media to attend some fantastic events recently which I am sure that a few years ago I would have found journalists biting my hand off to attend. Is it just a simple fact that journalists now have to be far more accountable for their existence as a staff writer and are now less interested in going to the latest big match / cocktail party to meet new contacts or just bad timing?
I would love to hear some of your experiences / opinions.
View Paul Stallard's profile
Paul – I am just drafting a post around exactly that theme! I have done a number of events recently and all have been a struggle.
I’ll drop you a note once the post is live
D
Here you go Paul – let me know what you think:
http://danleach.co.uk/2008/08/12/do-events-work-anymore/
D
Personally, the fact that life ends at the northern boundary of the M25 means that I’m never in the right place at the right time for most events! I’d love to have the time to attend more, but between working and my other fun projects, I always find it hard to justify a return train ticket and a minimum of 2 hours traveling unless it’s something I know will give me a great return.
I suspect, given the economic downturn for the general public, and the problems within the publishing industry etc, it’s also increasingly hard to abuse the expense account!
For an interesting take on events and hospitality etc, it’s worth checking out: http://www.eventmanagerblog.com/