From RSVP to full house: The ultimate community event checklist
Your event is on the horizon, but you've only got a handful of RSVPs from friends and the silence from others is deafening. Feeling the pre-event jitters? Don't worry, we've got you covered with some ideas to help turn the tide.
Recently asked the question - how do I get more people to RSVP to my event?
Some suggestions (in no particular order).
- Lock in the basics early - Finalise the date, time, venue, and any sponsor or speaker commitments as soon as you can. Clarity gives people confidence to RSVP.
- Create early buzz - Don’t wait. Start the conversation now! Post a question or teaser on social media and invite comments. Let people see the excitement building.
- Make it special - Invite a standout speaker or guest who adds real value and interest to the event.
- Inspire leadership - Run weekly leadership meetings in the lead-up. These meetings are a great place for idea-sharing and rallying others to spread the word.
- Encourage personal outreach - Ask your early supporters and leadership team to direct message (DM) friends and peers with a personalised invite. It goes further than a generic post.
- Post on socials and repost - Share something every few days that’s easy to re-share: a quote from your guest, a behind-the-scenes photo or a countdown reminder.
- Weekly email updates - Send regular updates to your group or chapter with links, highlights and your personal excitement about the event.
- Engage new interactions - If someone comments or likes a post, reach out. Ask why the event caught their eye. Turn that interest into an RSVP.
- Make it hybrid - Not everyone can attend in person. Offer an online option to remove the barrier.
- Record the event - Post the replay on YouTube or another platform. This helps those who miss it still feel included and builds momentum for your next event.
- Personal word of mouth and direct messages (DMs) matter most - This is the biggest tip: send direct messages. Invite people personally. Ask for a reshare. Ask for the RSVP. Make it meaningful.
Share a comment, what would you add to the list to help make a community event special?
