Play it Forward

Client Entertainment mostly takes the form of sporting venues and restaurant outings in the commercial world. But, have you considered taking a client, prospect, or referral source to a Play?

We had the opportunity to attend a community theater with a client this past month. It was certainly our first as a business owner. It was engaging, entertaining, comfortable seating in a well-lit and roomy design. The acting ranged from good to excellent, depending on the character, and the crowd was very respectful and professional. The standing ovation at the end of the play said it all. It was a very pleasant experience on every level.

In my past working experience, often sporting venues were the highly sought after client entertainment event. Periodically, the Orchestra or a Play made the cut. However, they were certainly less popular than a professional hockey or football or collegiate hockey or football event. I imagine basketball and baseball would also be hot tickets. We just do not have them at a professional level here.

Attending a sports event with a client is often a day long or evening long meeting. You need to ensure they are fed, given parking, and offered drinks, of any kind, if desired. It can be quite expensive. Therefore, likely most small businesses do not engage in this level of client entertainment. It is why a Play, particularly those at your community theaters, can be an ideal effort extended as a form of gratitude for their business or referrals. If you like musicals, those can be fun as well. Ours was a murder mystery and very well done.

Small businesses do not often have the pocketbook to entertain at the level corporations can. So, think out of the box. Research what your community theater is offering. You may find murder mysteries, musicals, or historical storytelling that makes a positive impression on your client, prospect, or referral source. Stay with the theme of buying small, even in your entertainment efforts.

Be well.