Blog Header - 2023-10-27T130827.437

 

7 Ways to Maximise Exposure for University Venue Spaces

Posted on 14 November 2023

Venue Management

       

You've got the venue space - now, discover how to make your university the ultimate event destination for all occasions.

 

Function spaces at universities are undiscovered treasures found on campuses all around the world. These versatile venues have the ability to accommodate a wide range of events, from academic conferences to elegant galas. To make your function space stand out, you need to implement innovative strategies that differentiate it from others.

 

Read on to discover creative and unique ways to boost the visibility of your university's event space, making sure it stands out in a competitive market.

 

1. Host Themed Showcase Events

 

Themed showcase events are a fantastic way to bring your function spaces to life and create an unforgettable experience for guests. Organising events around a specific theme, not only shows off the space's incredible versatility but also creates a sense of anticipation and excitement among attendees.

 

If your function space is equipped with cutting-edge AV and state-of-the-art tech, for example, consider hosting a "Tech Symposium” featuring university professors, alumni, and guest speakers. You can invite renowned tech innovators, emerging startups, and influential local businesses to showcase their latest groundbreaking products and revolutionary ideas. Events like these will not only highlight your venue's remarkable capabilities but also position it as a dynamic and thriving innovation hub, grabbing the attention of forward-thinking individuals and businesses looking to collaborate.

 

2. Invest in Storytelling Content

 

When it comes to captivating an audience, nothing beats a good story. And guess what? Your venue spaces have the potential to become the main character in this captivating narrative. Think about your university's rich history and how you can highlight it. Delve into the intriguing architectural features that make your spaces unique, and don't forget to mention any famous events that have taken place there. 

 

For instance, if your function space has hosted renowned lectures or cultural gatherings, share these memorable stories in an engaging and immersive way. To truly bring these narratives to life, consider creating a multimedia experience. Imagine incorporating video interviews with university alumni or professors who have fond memories of the space. Let them share their personal experiences and anecdotes, enhancing the human connection with your venue. 

 

By humanising your venue in this way, you make it more relatable and captivating to potential clients, sparking their interest and leaving a lasting impression. So, embrace the power of storytelling and create an unforgettable experience for everyone who steps foot into your venue spaces.

3. Create Customisable Experiences

 

Creating a truly one-of-a-kind event requires a focus on customisation. By offering a diverse range of options for decor, lighting, and seating arrangements, you can cater to the unique preferences of each client. Collaborating with local event designers and decorators expands the horizons even further, providing an extensive selection of themes and styles.

 

Ensure your on-site event staff are well-trained and adaptable. This enables them to seamlessly accommodate a wide range of client preferences, resulting in events that go above and beyond expectations. With a palette of choices at their disposal, clients can effortlessly bring their vision to life, making each event in your university space a memorable and truly exceptional experience.

 

4. Showcase Sustainability Initiatives

 

In a time when sustainability matters more than ever to clients, it's super important to show that your university is a responsible and eco-friendly location choice. One way to do this is by getting eco-certifications and proudly displaying them on your website and marketing materials. When 

 

Consider hosting educational events or workshops on sustainability. These activities not only raise awareness but also position your function spaces as valuable venue options for eco-friendly event hosting. Team up with local sustainable vendors to offer a wide range of eco-friendly catering and decor options. Don't forget to highlight these choices in all your marketing materials too. By showcasing your commitment to sustainability, you'll attract clients who share the same values and are on the lookout for venues that align with their eco-conscious beliefs.

 

5. Get Creative with Experiential Marketing


Experiential marketing in universities is about creating engaging and interactive moments that connect event planners with your campus spaces. 

 

Organise "Taste and Tour" events where prospective clients can sample campus cuisine while exploring the facilities. Collaborate with student artists for live painting sessions or interactive workshops that showcase the artistic potential of the campus. These experiences transcend traditional marketing and offer a tangible, sensory connection to the university, making it more appealing and memorable. 

 

Encourage past event clients to share their experiences on social media, effectively boosting your venue space visibility and ample potential.

6. Offer 360-Degree Venue Tours

 

Harness the power of virtual reality (VR) tours to captivate potential event clients and encourage them to consider your university venue space. Consider developing a downloadable VR app that allows users to explore your event spaces right from their devices, even before scheduling a site inspection. Ensure a comprehensive VR experience, allowing users to virtually stroll through various event setups, customise lighting and decor, and immerse themselves in the ambience of different occasions.

 

By integrating VR into your marketing efforts, you position your university as innovative and future-forward in the event space, showcasing a tech-savviness and forward-thinking approach.

 

7. Expand Offerings with Creative Packages

 

Get creative with your package inclusions and offer experiences that go beyond the standard. Added-value experiences like university bicycle tours, or private stargazing on the rooftop create a sense of exclusivity and luxury, making your venue more appealing to clients seeking something special.

 

Be transparent about the value of these packages, demonstrating that they offer an unparalleled experience for your clients and their event attendees.

 

 

 

 

Sign up to get more of our content