The Purpose Of Badges
Badges are very useful for a number of reasons. As well as
allowing immediate identification for security reasons they also encourage networking. For example, at an international conference very few people may know each other and placing the country of origin as well as the delegate’s name on the badge can help to break the ice.
There are various options available. You can choose from a variety of materials including stickers, rigid plastic or the more common PVC badge holder with a card inserted into it. These come in a wide assortment of styles, sizes and prices. You can have badges pre-printed by a specialist badge company or you can print the delegates’ names on labels and stick them onto a card printed with the event logo which can then be inserted into a badge holder.
Badge Layouts
Depending on the type of conference, you can choose the layout that is most appropriate. At business events it is usual to include the delegate’s name, position and company, but there are no hard and fast rules for this. Other ideas follows:
Badges can be attached to clothing by a pin or a clip. Ladies may prefer a pin as they typically do not have a breast pocket on suits. Tape lanyards are becoming increasingly popular allowing the delegates to hang the badge around their necks. The badges themselves and the neck cord offer another opportunity for sponsorship. The
size of the font used on the badges must be large enough for the details to be read at a reasonable distance. This avoids delegates having to stand six inches away from the next delegate whilst staring at their bosom in order to read their name badge!
Preparing Delegate Packs
You may intend giving each delegate an information pack as they arrive. It may include a programme or itinerary, speaker biographies, abstracts of the presentations, a delegate list and any sponsored items such as pens, notebooks and advertising material. The pack may be a simple cardboard folder, a cloth bag, or even a small briefcase. The options are numerous and, of course, provide an excellent sponsorship opportunity. They should be packed in advance of the event as it can be a time-consuming and laborious job.
Remembering Delegate Care
You will want to create the best possible learning environment for your delegates, and that includes making them feel relaxed and welcome. Delegates who travel from some distance often over-estimate how long it will take to get there, so expect them early.
You and your staff should remain helpful, cheerful and understanding throughout the event – but not patronising, especially if delegates arrive stressed after a difficult journey.