400 people to a single event? How to ensure great attendance.

Organizing a major event can be nerve-wracking to say the least. Coordinating speakers schedules, volunteers, catered dinners, reservations, etc. can be especially difficult. All the while, hoping that people actually attend the event is always in the back of your mind. Attendance is a necessary, although not sufficient, condition for a great event and various methods can be used to get people there. One of the most efficient and cost-effective ways is automated calls. 

Sending out emails and newsletters can be integral parts of any attendance campaign, but we’ve found that complementing those efforts with a call the Monday before and an automated “top-of-mind” reminder the night before an event can improve attendance significantly.

In working with FreedomWorks in South Carolina, we got over 400 people to a single rally in support of school choice using only telephone technology. We worked with them and created a customized message that was delivered to their supporters via automated call informing them of the event. Such a project can be completed within 1-2 days, and you are able to get measurable results beyond attendance that allows you to accurately determine the reach of your message (whether it went to voicemail, the length of time a person listened to the message, or if it was an invalid number).

The value of such an attendance effort is more than just the number of people who show up to the actual event. First, every person who listened to the message or received the voicemail heard your organization’s or campaign’s name which helps with name recognition. Second, each person sees that you’re an active organization that is involved with issues that they care about. So even if they don’t personally attend, they may in the future, and at the least, hear your organization’s name multiple times.

Depending on your situation, something similar could be done concerning your organization. If you have questions or would like more information, reply to this email or call 888-761-3003. You can also visit our website at http://www.actionsolutions.net.