How To Turn That No Into A Yes

Event planners, caterers, and experience directors are all risk takers.  From design to final presentation, there’s always a chance that it won’t work but that doesn’t stop you from trying – because you know that the risk is (almost) always worth the reward.  For those that operate with the full support of your management, you know that there is a path to success even with the wackiest idea, but when you have to get permission from a board or manager your glorious idea gets shot down due to budget, expectations, or plain old fear.

Don’t let someone’s fear stop you from creating and presenting your best, most out of the box ideas.  Below are a few ideas on how to move forward when your approvers don’t “get it.”

Understand where they’re coming from

You’re an expert in making memorable events and can fully envision your standing ovation, unfortunately the people you’re presenting to are not. When offering ideas, help your manager and board understand everything from the ground up.  A no comes from fear of the unknown so give them everything they need, including endorsements and proof it works (see next idea).

Showcase past successes

No one wants to be the first – so let your management or board know where it has worked before.  If you got your idea from Instagram, print out the photos, or if it’s from another manager, print out an email endorsement.  Remember, your members are special but they are not different – so if it worked somewhere else it will most likely work at your club!

Be willing to take the blame

The board says no but you know this is the greatest idea ever.  Be willing to make an offer letting them know you’re willing to take the blame if it doesn’t work out.  This is risky but it can pay off big time.  When I’ve seen people take a stand like this it usually sways people into moving forward, and no, with rare exceptions, no one is fired for one bad event!

Address the concerns before they’re said

As a mentalist I know what you’re thinking.  As an event planner, you know the questions your board or manager will have.  Come prepared!  Have a P&L statement printed out. Offer alternatives to the current proposal (for example, just a show, no dinner). And if you know the event will operate at a loss offer suggestions for better turnout, such as inviting prospective members.

Be the expert in the room

It’s amazing how many people refuse to allow an expert to do their job.  You are a professional event planner with (years) of experience.  You’ve had successes and failures.  You’ve given members a reason to smile.  And now, someone with no event experience, is telling you your idea won’t work… don’t accept it.  Remind them, in a very nice and respectful way, that you were hired because of your experience and education.  They must trust you if this is to be a successful relationship.  There are a thousand reasons why someone might say no – past experience, person preference, assumptions… but they don’t matter because they’re not the expert.  Assert your authority and demand to be taken seriously.  You are good at what you do and your board or management must accept it!

Best of luck.