75% of B2C marketers have stated that in-person events are a crucial supporting element for their brand’s success. It’s important not to underestimate the importance of business-to-consumer events, and how they can connect your company to new customers!
At a glance
- B2B and B2C events have different types of attendees
- B2B events are business-based rather than oriented around entertainment
- Both events need an emcee on stage to ensure everything runs smoothly
- Each event type has different goals
Understanding the main differences and similarities between B2B and B2C events is the first step in hosting a function that can give your business the boost it needs.
Keep reading, and I’ll let you know the key differences between B2B and B2C events.
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#1. B2B and B2C events have different types of attendees
The primary difference between B2B and B2C events is the type of people you’ll have in attendance.
B2B events usually are multi-day conferences, VIP breakfasts, product launches, cocktail parties, trade shows, or executive retreats where the target audience is other businesses and industry members.
B2C events, on the other hand, are all about building relationships with potential customers, so the audience will likely be made of regular consumers and new customers.
#2. Business-to-business events are business-based rather than oriented around entertainment
The dynamics of B2C and B2B events are another obvious difference.
B2C events create a memorable experience that encourages customers to interact with a brand.
It’s all about creating engaging and enlightening event experiences for everyone!
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B2B events usually have a higher emphasis on networking sessions
B2B events are more professionally oriented.
Because the target audience is mostly other companies or brands, there’s an added emphasis on networking so that those in the crowd can have an added benefit.
#3. Both events need an emcee on stage to ensure everything runs smoothly
Let’s talk about something that both event types should have in common.
Both of these event types won’t be successful without a memorable Master of Ceremonies running the show.
A fun, engaging, and charismatic speaker on stage will help guide the festivities while keeping the audience entertained. An emcee is key to creating great brand experiences for your audience!
And, especially when it comes to B2C events, the brand experience is perhaps the most essential part. This is the foundation for the marketing strategy, event dynamics, and everything in between.
#4. Each event type has different goals
Especially during the event planning process, setting goals and objectives for your event is crucial if you want it to end in success.
B2C events often seek to entice new customers, drive sales and services, and keep people interested in their brand.
B2B functions likely are geared more toward building relationships with other businesses, industry leaders, and powerful decision-makers.
Though there are many ways for a company to use B2C events, understanding how to create and execute your goals is the key to it all!
Final thoughts
Knowing the difference between a B2C and B2B event is important if you want your function to be a success. And this list here will help you in that simplistic journey!
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Adam Christing has been called “The Tom Brady of emcees.” He has hosted more than 1,000 company meetings, special events, gala celebrations, and more. He is the author of several books and founder of CleanComedians.com. For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
