Selecting A Venue for Your Group Program

Selecting a Venue for Your Workshop, Retreat or Group Coaching Program
Copyright 2007 - Jennifer Britton, All Rights Reserved

Selecting the right venue for your group program - whether it is a workshop, retreat or group coaching program - can be a time consuming and challenging process for those who are not logistically savvy. Here are some things to consider when selecting your next venue:

1.Ease of accessibility for your participants – Consider the needs of your participants:
* Is there parking?
* Is it free/at cost?
* What modes of transport will participants be able to take to get there?

2.The environment –
* What is the feel of the venue?
* Does it match the environment you want to create?
* Is there sufficient space for you to undertake the exercises you want to do?
* What changes if any will need to be made with the room layout?
* Are there additional rooms available if you need breakout sessions?
* What is their policy regarding participants using other parts of the facility – any areas out of bounds?

3. Room booking charges –
* How much will it cost to retain the space?
* Are deposits refundable? What is their payment policy?
* What is their cancellation policy?
* If numbers change near the towards the launch of the program, what impact will this have on pricing?

4. Insurance – Many facilities require that you hold sufficient liability insurance. What are their requirements? What insurance do you need to put in place?

5. Meals –
* What dietary requirements do your participants have? Food allergies?
* Can your needs be met by the facility? In your budget?
* What are their offerings/special packages?
* What are the exact times for breaks and other meals?
* What is the venue’s policy on ordering or providing lunch?
* Will there be sufficient time with your schedule to have all participants eat leisurely through the lunch period? What if numbers change before the program? Can meal amounts be modified? Up to what date?

6. Equipment Rental – often venues will provide certain pieces of equipment (flip charts, markers) at cost or sometimes free. Clarify what is included in the room rental, and what might need to be rented at additional cost. Also inquire what their policy is regarding bringing your equipment in from your organization – is this allowed?

These are some of the nitty gritty issues you may want to consider as you select your next venue. Are there other things you consider when selecting your group program venues? Please feel free to comment below.

With best wishes,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CHRP, CPT
Group Coaching Essentials
Workshop and Retreat Essentials starts Wed Sept 12th (8-9:15 pm EST Wed by phone: Sept 12 and 26, Oct 3 and 10/07)
Email: jennifer{at}potentialsrealized.com
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960

To reproduce or reprint this article, please contact Jennifer at jennifer{at}potentialsrealized.com