Make Time for Rehearsal
Why is it Important to Hold a Rehearsal Before Any Meeting or Conference?
Rehearsals can help build presenter confidence as well as uncover any hidden challenges.
Whether you're hosting a small team meeting or a large conference, it's important to hold a rehearsal beforehand.
This will help to ensure that the meeting runs smoothly and efficiently, and that all of the important topics are covered.
Here are a few reasons why it's important to hold a rehearsal before a meeting or conference:
To identify and address any potential problems. When you rehearse, you'll have a chance to identify any potential problems with the meeting space, the equipment, or the agenda. This will give you time to address any problems before the meeting, so that they don't cause disruptions during the meeting.
To practice your presentation. If you're giving a presentation at the meeting or conference, it's important to practice beforehand. Check out our articles with tips for presenters here. This will help you to feel more confident and prepared, and it will also help you to make sure that your presentation is on time and on-topic.
To get everyone on the same page. When you rehearse, you'll have a chance to go over the agenda and make sure that everyone is aligned on how the event will flow. This will help to avoid any confusion during the meeting. Often, meetings and conferences are the only chance you have to get everyone in one place. The rehearsal may uncover past misunderstandings that can be addressed prior to your attendees walking in the door.
To build excitement and anticipation. When people know what to expect, they're more likely to be excited and engaged. Your presenters and leadership teams may use the rehearsal to ease their nerves or their worries. Running through everything prior to doors opening can allow them to relax and actually have fun during the event.
In summary, if you're hosting a meeting or conference, I encourage you to hold a rehearsal beforehand. If you have access to the meeting room and AV team the day before, you’ll often find that much of the “morning of the event” drama you may typically see is severely reduced. And, your leadership team and presenters had a night to sleep on the decisions made the previous day often leading to better performances on stage.
It's a simple step that can make a big difference in the success of your event.
I’d love to connect with you about rehearsals, setting expectations for presenters, writing and stress testing your run of show, and any other elements during the pre-event planning that can help you have a better event. Please reach out to set up a time to chat — info@equinoxaudiovisuals.com — or by hitting the Contact Us button below.
