It’s that exciting time of year when as an RBC Performance Ambassador, you are planning your annual celebratory recognition galas. At RBC Performance we are always looking for ways to support our Ambassadors with helpful tools and valuable advice. The following list offers our 7 tips for creating a successful gala:

1. Old habits are hard to change.
It’s been 10 great years since our program name changed from Royal Performance to RBC Performance. Whether you are creating invitations, signage or screen presentations; be sure to call the program by its proper name, RBC Performance. Our logo is available in printable and on-screen formats below for your convenience.

2. Use ‘Recognition 101’ basics.
As with all recognition, it’s important to note the specific behaviours that individuals are being recognized for and why those behaviours are valued.

3. No one wins a recognition award.
Recognition is how we say “Thank You” to those who have demonstrated the behaviours that support our RBC Values. This level of significance deserves language of a more noble nature. Try replacing the words “win” with words like “earned, bestowed, celebrated, appreciated, recognized, thanked etc.”

4. Keep cost information flowing.
The best way to respect your budget process is to keep Senior Management informed of your gala costs throughout your development process. No one likes a last minute budget surprise.

5. Focus on the details.
Rely on colleagues to help gather the details that make recognition a personalized and authentic powerhouse. Always ensure you have everyone’s correct names and titles. Avoid the embarrassment of finding spelling errors blown up on a large screen by checking each other’s presentations. Our rule of thumb is to triple-check EVERYTHING!

6. Make it fun.
As a gala creator you are also in the entertainment business. Each program decision should come with the question, “What is the most engaging way we can present this to our audience?” To keep your celebration energized, look for ways to break up the agenda with brief, interactive and fun ideas. And remember the golden rule regarding overly long speeches is that shorter is better, and less is more.

7. Share your plan.
Book Senior Management time well in advance if they are to participate, and brief them fully in advance if they have a role in your event. Also book your venue well in advance to get preferred sites.