Risk Management Takes Expertise
Risk management is not all about liability insurance… which is crucial in corporate and academic events but should not be the first consideration in event planning. Events are complex undertakings that require careful proactive risk management planning and execution to ensure their success. Risk management and analysis and event safety are critical components of any corporate event, as they help to identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them. Here are some key points to consider when managing risk and planning contingencies for corporate events:
Risk Management In Event Planning
- Identify potential risks: Before you can manage risks, you need to identify them. Start by conducting a thorough risk assessment of your event. Look for potential dangers in areas such as venue selection, transportation, crowd control, food and beverage service, audiovisual equipment, and guest safety.
- Evaluate the likelihood and impact of each risk: Once you’ve identified potential risks, evaluate how likely they are to occur and what impact they would have on your event if they did.
- Develop a risk management plan: Use the information gathered in steps 1 and 2 to develop a risk management plan. This plan should outline the steps you’ll take to mitigate each identified risk, including who is responsible for each action.
- Consider contingency planning: The best risk management plan can’t account for every possible scenario. That’s why it’s important to develop contingency plans for high-impact risks. Contingency planning involves identifying alternative solutions and courses of action in the event of an unforeseen incident or bad weather.
- Communicate with stakeholders: Ensure all stakeholders, including vendors, crew, sponsors, and attendees, know the potential risks and the steps you’re taking to manage them. This will help ensure everyone is on the same page and can act quickly if something goes wrong. Ensure you conduct a risk management briefing with your activation team before the event.
- Test your plans: Before the event, test your risk management and contingency plans to ensure they’re effective. This will involve running through scenarios with your team.
- Be proactive: By following these key points, you’ll be well on your way to effective risk management and contingency planning for your corporate event. Remember, the key to success is being proactive and prepared for any situation that may arise. Having enough insurance is necessary, but risk management has other considerations.
Want to Learn More?
Fill out the form below to view The Special Event and Catersource’s Winter Education Series webinar on risk management led by Sally Webb, CEO of The Special Event Company.