The invitation process plays a major role in determining the turnout for your networking event. A successful approach involves several steps.
Start with a save-the-date, at least 8 weeks before the event. Keep it brief and intriguing—enough to get people to save the date, but not so much that you give everything away.
Send the official invitation 4 to 6 weeks in advance. Make it clear what the value is for the invitee. Don’t just explain what’s happening, but why it’s relevant to them.
Have account managers or executives follow up personally. A phone call or personal message significantly increases attendance compared to an email alone.
Send a reminder 1–2 weeks before the event with practical information: location, parking, dress code, and program. And give no-shows another call a few days before the event.
Consider creating a sense of exclusivity. A limited number of spots or a personal touch in the invitation will make the event more appealing.