As wedding and event professionals, we understand that each year brings with it a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The industry is ever-evolving, and staying at the forefront of trends is essential to thrive in our industry. As 2024 approaches, it’s a great time to reflect on our past successes, learn from our experiences, and set ambitious goals for the future.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, here are six steps to take your business to new heights and make 2024 your most fulfilling year yet.
Take a look back
Before jumping into your 2024 agenda, it’s important to reflect on 2023 by considering each event’s triumphs and setbacks. Ask yourself these questions:
- What went well for me this year?
- What could I update in the coming year?
- What do I want to leave in 2023?
- What do I want to take with me into 2024?
Talk to your team to pinpoint the highs and lows of the past year so you can determine how to make 2024 even better.
Set new (and realistic) goals
It’s common to set goals for the new year, but there’s a big difference between setting intentional and strategic goals versus setting goals you feel pressured to achieve. Take some time to contemplate what you want to change in 2024, whether it means more or less of something.
You might want to boost your social media following, or perhaps you’re hoping to reduce your operational expenses. Reflect on how you can enhance your business in the coming year while keeping your ideal outcomes specific and reasonable. It’s good to challenge yourself, but setting goals that are too far-fetched can set you up for disappointment.
Good examples include:
- Hire a new assistant by June 2024
- Increase revenue from B2B clients by 5%
- Work with 1+ new corporate event client(s) each quarter
- Create a new survey to ask for client feedback in January 2024
Create a plan
Now that you’ve laid out your goals, it’s time to create a plan! Start by breaking down your goals into smaller milestones over the year. Remember: Consistency is key. Splitting larger goals into a handful of more manageable tasks will make success feel less daunting.
For example, if your goal is to grow your social media following, your plan might include experimenting with social media ads in Q1 and hiring a content marketer in Q2. Just be sure to tailor your approach to your specific audience.
Conduct a tech audit
Success in the special events industry requires a blend of creativity, organization, and efficiency. One of the best ways to stay on top of these elements? Using the right technology.
As you head into 2024, conduct a tech audit of your current systems (turn to page 54 for a thorough walkthrough of how to conduct a tech audit). See if there are any subscriptions or tools that aren’t making a positive impact on your workflows, then work on replacing them. Here are a few of my favorite tech tools for event pros:
- FocusList (time management)
- Notability (detailed note-taking)
- Canva (graphic design)
- Voxer (client communication)
- Asana (project management)
- Acuity (appointment scheduling)
Ask for feedback
If you want to meet your goals in 2024, client feedback is invaluable. Your clients’ opinions offer insights that can transform your services and elevate your business. Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback; instead, embrace it as a valuable resource.
By seeking input from your clients, you demonstrate your commitment to excellence and uncover opportunities for growth. Create a new survey that you can share with your clients after their event wraps up, and set a reminder for when to send it (or use software to automate it!).
Start conversations
Beyond setting goals and making plans, a new year is the perfect time to expand your network and meet new event professionals. Creative partners can help you actively work toward your goals, widen your skillset, and generate new referrals.
Set aside time for a coffee meeting or reach out via social media to rekindle connections with colleagues. And don’t forget to keep things mutual—if there’s a way you can help someone in your industry, reach out and let them know!
Armed with these tips, you have the steps you need to take in order to make 2024 your best year yet. Keep an open mind, refresh your goals, and you’re sure to succeed!
Kevin Dennis is the editor of WeddingIQ and the owner of Fantasy Sound Event Services, a full-service event company based in Livermore, California. Dennis is the immediate past president for WIPA and is Director-at-Large on the ILEA NCC board.
