Using a committee approach to planning your event is a great way to spread responsibilities and prevent burnout. For large events, assigning committees is often the most effective way to make sure every detail is given the attention it deserves.
A dinner auction is a good example of the type event that can flourish under the committee approach. Here you have several different categories of details that need to be managed. You could assign a group for menu planning, auction management, registration and decorating. Each of these categories requires enough work to keep several people busy.
Perhaps the most challenging part of managing committees is of course getting everyone on the same page. Democracy is great, until someone becomes a bit too persistent about their idea. This is where being the lead planner requires patience, as well as a grasp of basic sales skills.
Part of leading the team is making sure everyone is working towards the same goal. Many times that involves selling compromise. Communicating your vision to co-workers is a critical part of directing committees. Committees work better when they know what the expectation is. Creating a framework for your event from the very start will help you get the most from your supporting cast.
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