NYC engaging event entertainment

I’ve written about this topic ever since I started blogging 4+ years ago. As a producer of engaging corporate event entertainment in NYC specializing in live customized trivia, I know firsthand the value of creating audience-centric experiences for employees, clients and loyal brand enthusiasts to enjoy. But what does that REALLY mean, when all is said and done?

Even if you seek to entertain your guests rather than create formal team building activities for corporate groups in New York City or elsewhere, you still need to answer a basic question: why are we doing this? Are we looking to simply entertain an office team in Manhattan with a fun night out, or do we want something deeper: a means of boosting morale, establishing bonds and increasing productivity – with an ultimate goal of growing profit?

There is absolutely nothing wrong with showing a loyal group a good time – how you wish to do it, however, is something worth thinking about. In my world running one of the unique NYC trivia companies for corporate events, my approach has always been to put the audience first: there is no elaborate setup of props or buzzers, no classroom-style seating. Rather, groups sit at tables facing one another, with the goal of getting to know one another better. Even when utilizing one of our celebrity trivia event hosts, their role is purely to facilitate an awesome experience to be shared by the attendees. I want the attention to be on the guests at all times, to make them feel like they belong there, are participating, and are having an absolute blast from start to finish.

Other New York City quizmasters for corporate parties take a different approach. If you employ one of my competitors’ services, you may see spectacles running the full gamut: PowerPoint displays, costume-wearing hosts, bells, buzzers, lights and other cheesy attempts to re-create the TV game show “feel” firsthand.

Don’t get me wrong, there is absolutely nothing wrong with this – IF that’s what you’re looking for. Just be aware, however, that this experience will be more of a show than an interactive audience engagement event. When the focus is on the bedazzled stage and the sparkly jacket-wearing host, the attention of the room is not on the participants – it’s on the guy in the sparkly coat.

The point I wish to emphasize is, make sure you know what you’re both looking for and getting into, before you book your vendor. Group activities aren’t built equally when it comes to engaging the audience, and some will be more passive or active than others.