Are you getting started with a new project, a new strategy or do you want to usher in the new year well? Then you deserve a good start. And you make it with a kick-off. But what exactly is it? And how do you organise a kick-off meeting that is both valuable and successful? We will help you on your way to organising a kick-off that is bursting with energy.
What is a kick-off?
A kick-off is the starting moment of a new project, period or strategy. During this meeting everyone comes together to announce the start. Here you discuss goals, expectations and working methods. The idea? Getting everyone on the same page. But that's not all. Because you can do so much more with a good kick-off. Cultivate enthusiasm, for instance. Or clarify everyone's role. And above all: inspire each other.
The steps to organise a kick-off
Every successful kick-off meeting is unique. But they all have something in common: good preparation. We asked our event managers about the best tips for organising a kick-off. According to them, these are the 8 most important steps.
- Define the goal
Ask yourself: why are you organising this kick-off? What is your goal: to inform, to inspire or to stimulate? Or a combination of all? Determine your objective before you start organising. A good and clear objective will also help you make choices while organising. Make the objective as concrete as possible. For example: "After this kick-off, everyone will know their role in the project." Or: "Thanks to this kick-off, the team is again inspired to give it their all in the coming year."
- Think about who should come
Who are you actually organising this kick-off for? It is important that you invite the right people. That means not only the core team. But also stakeholders, for example. Or partners. Or other departments you work with that might have an impact on the project. The sooner you involve everyone in your project or strategy, the greater the chances of better collaboration.
- Choose a suitable location
You already feel it coming don't you? The venue. Absolutely important for the atmosphere and impact of your kick-off meeting. And it is also closely linked to your goal. For example, do you want to create a creative brainstorm? Then don't opt for a monotonous meeting room at the office. A location is of great value to your event and what atmosphere you want to convey. Of course we can help you with that. At Jaarbeurs we have all kinds of event locations for kick-offs. From large halls with a stage to intimate meeting rooms.
- Pay attention to the programme
A strong programme makes your kick-off interesting. Therefore, think carefully about what the day should look like. Alternate information with interaction and inspiration. For example, a plenary kick-off followed by break-out sessions in small groups. Or a keynote speaker with a refreshing view, including interactive elements such as Q&As. Don't forget the entertainment, as this makes the day nice and light-hearted. Choose live music or an inspiring workshop in between, for example.
- Ensure good catering
A well-filled stomach makes us pay better attention. And also: that the experience goes up. Therefore, do not economise on catering. A cheese sandwich is nice, but perhaps your participants expect a bit more. At Jaarbeurs, by the way, you don't have to worry about this. Our culinary chefs think along with you to match the catering to your kick-off. For example by continuing the theme in the dishes. Or the way we serve it. Moreover, our motto everywhere is: extremely tasty and super fresh.
- Speakers? Prepare them well
Make sure speakers know what is required of them. Is the CEO taking the stage to usher in the new year? Then help them by keeping the story short and sweet. External speakers booked? Tell them what the intention is. Unfortunately, we have seen it happen regularly that things don't go quite right. For example, that the speaker is just praising the competition or has too little knowledge of the subject.
- Don't forget technology
Light? Check! Sound? Check! Make sure everything is right for a flawless experience. Nothing is more annoying than a blank microphone or a faltering connection. Therefore, check all your technology in advance so you know it's running smoothly. At Jaarbeurs, by the way, you don't have to worry about that. If you tell us what you need, we will set everything up and test it for you.
- Most important: add experience
It is perhaps the best tip from our list. Experience. A kick-off is more than content. It is an experience. This is where the tone is set. You can add experience in various ways. Through a spectacular plenary opening, for example. Or with a banging end. Or both! And don't forget the details. Because experience is a sum of fine moments. A nice lunch, good atmosphere, nice people, a surprising speaker and inspiring location.
Organising a kick-off meeting at Jaarbeurs
Are you looking for a location to organise a fantastic kick-off? Then you are in the right place. In the middle of the country and fantastic spaces where you can let your hair down. For an exciting kick-off or a traditional start to the new year.
Want to know more? We will gladly help you. See you soon!
