While we may have thought that in-person professional networking and team building events were going to be a thing of the past, we are quickly learning that people are eager to get back to normal life and that networking and team building events are in full swing.
After more than a year of Covid-19 restrictions, companies and associations are starting to return to their new normal. Some are bringing people back into the office, while others are viewing home as a permanent placement. Still, others are wanting just a little more time with a hybrid schedule before a full return to the office.
Whichever you are currently experiencing, it is most likely that you have not seen your colleagues, other than on a screen, in a very long time! The Four Points by Sheraton Norwood and the Forefront Center can provide you with a safe and comfortable place to strengthen the bond with your team, or professionally network with some new faces, whether that be within your own company, or as part of a professional network association.
There are a few things to consider when hosting a professional networking or team building event. The first being the location and space. You’ll want to find a venue that is conveniently located to your group, as well as a venue that has the space you’ll need based on the scope of your event. The Four Points Sheraton Norwood and The Forefront Center Waltham are both set up and equipped to host your event. Whether it is a conference room for a paint or trivia night, social room for a wine tasting with dinner or outdoor cocktail party to enjoy the long summer nights on our Pavilion, the Four Points by Sheraton Norwood and the Forefront Center Waltham have you covered!
Once you determine the goal of your event, and the space requirements, we’re here to help put all the pieces together. All our spaces are multi-functional and can be transformed into any and all of your networking dreams.
Professional Networking
For a professional networking event, knowing who will attend and what company or organization they are from is important information to gather. Consider using an online registration or even a Facebook event to keep track of RSVP’s. Once you have that set up, start promoting! Nothing can kill the vibe at a professional networking or team building event quicker than a low turnout.
When bringing together a group of strangers, a comfortable and inviting environment is key to success. Take into consideration the personalities and demographics of your targets. A group of seasoned professionals logging long hours each week may have different needs and wants than a group of college students looking for their first job. Prepare a few icebreakers to start the conversations, and if possible, identify individuals on your own team who can serve as anchors that night. These anchors can approach any wall flowers you may have to ensure they are included in meaningful conversations.
When planning your agenda for the night, resist the urge to include too many speeches and presentations. Keep anything formal, short and sweet, so guests can focus on the reason they are there… professional networking
Plan your food and beverage carefully. Too many stationary items keep guests in one location. Position bars in a way to encourage flow, and pair with passed, easy to eat appetizers. No one wants to find out they had spinach in their teeth the entire night!
After the event, follow up with a group email so everyone is connected and can continue to build relationships!
Team Building
Hosting a team building event can be as structured or unstructured as you like it. After dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic for over a year, a simple after work cocktail party may be sufficient to bring everyone together again. Good food, good drinks, and good people, plus some music or entertainment equals a great event!
The Outdoor Pavilion at the Four Points by Sheraton Norwood is an ideal location for networking events. We’ll handle all the gourmet food and creative cocktails and can assist you with lining up yard games, entertainment or just background music to enhance your event.
If a more structured time is what you are looking for, we’ve worked with a local company Team Bonding. They host everything from trivia nights, to charity bike assemblies. With their organization, they truly focus on having attendees work as a team to achieve the goal of the event.
Regardless of the type of event you’re looking to host, The Four Points by Sheraton Norwood and The Forefront Center Waltham are here to meet your professional networking and team building needs in any way imaginable. Creating the perfect event, lining up vendors to assist, and supplying the atmosphere needed, the Four Points by Sheraton Norwood and the Forefront Center Waltham have it all!
Now that we can finally get back together and enjoy the company of others, reach out to see how we can help you set up your next professional networking and team building event for yourself and your colleagues that no one will soon forget! Start planning by calling Tel: 781-255-3159 or email us at fourpointsnorwood@hobbsbrook.com