Running a successful medical conference can make an events team seem like a leader in its industry. In order to achieve this, you must create a memorable event which is spoken about amongst peers, covers hot topics in their particular medical field and becomes an event where places are likely to be snapped up quick.
To create a well renown event within the medical sector, here’s a list of some of the things we think adds to the magic of a pharmaceutical events success.
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Book engaging and inspirational speakers –
your speaker line-up is so important. Make sure you book speakers who have something relevant, interesting and forward thinking to talk about. They must engage with delegates and medical professionals must feel like they’re learning something which they can take back to their practice and share with the team
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Make sure your staff are easy to spot
– ensure the events team are wearing a recognisable uniform so your delegates can call upon them at any time to help with any questions or point them in the right direction
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A well organised registration desk –
a welcoming registration desk should run like a well-oiled machine. If delegates are welcomed by a friendly team who can give them the information they need and show them where to go. This will help guests relax and feel welcomed at the meeting from the start. Top tip – this is also improved by signage in the lead up to and around the venue
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Book engaging and inspirational speakers –
your speaker line-up is so important. Make sure you book speakers who have something relevant, interesting and forward thinking to talk about. They must engage with delegates and medical professionals must feel like they’re learning something which they can take back to their practice and share with the team
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Diversity –
if you want a diverse audience to attend your meeting, it’s important to cater for this by having a diverse range of speakers and panellists. The structure of the event must also be diverse, by combining both lectures, workshops and seminars, this will improve learning.
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Make it fun and entertaining –
if your event includes a conference dinner, introduce some entertainment for the delegates to enjoy. At one of our events last year, we had a glitter stall where delegates got their faces painted by our glitter team and they loved it! Professionals tend to learn more by discussing topics with one another so having some interactivity during your meeting is key
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Good food is key
– food is fuel and without it delegates will struggle. Ensure there is enough good and hot (if possible) food to go around which caters for all dietary requirements to keep delegates happy and full during their time at the conference
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Keep things fresh every year!
You’re only as good as your last conference, don’t rely on the success of previous years. Keep it fresh by changing things up and giving delegates something new and unexpected. From changing the theme or entertainment, to introducing new speakers and subject areas, there are many ways in which you can stay true to the events core but also up the ante every year.
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Apply for CPE/CME accreditation – this lets all your potential attendees know that the meeting content meets the appropriate standard for furthering their education. This also give another incentive for attendees to book on!
Ultimately a medical conference should aim to provide education with an exposure to new ideas and provide entertainment to delegates. When organising, always have the question “what do your attendees want to achieve from attending the event?” at the front of your mind. If you’re confident the event will have achieved these goals for delegates, you should be on to a winning conference.
If you found this content useful, have some feedback or have a suggestion for future blog posts, we would love to hear from you – drop me a line at mica@cfsevents.co.uk.
