What Corporate Clients Really Want & How to Win Them Over

Securing corporate clients can be a game-changer for your business – they often have big budgets, plan multiple events, and, when impressed, will not only come back for repeat bookings but also recommend you to their peers. 

However, catering to this audience requires a strategic approach. Whether you’re working with SMEs or enterprise-level clients like Monzo, Candy Kittens, or Netflix, understanding their expectations and delivering with confidence is the key to long-term success. Here’s a step-by-step guide to winning over corporate clients and how to book corporate bookings with Togather.

1. Adopt the Right Mindset

Corporate clients expect professionalism and confidence. Your behaviour and attitude set the tone for the entire engagement, and so being accommodating ensures they feel they’re in capable hands.

These clients are often office managers, executive assistants (EAs), personal assistants (PAs), or account managers at event agencies - they’re not usually the decision-makers, so make it as easy as possible for them to relay your information to their boss or stakeholders. Present your services clearly on the platform, in a professional way, and lead with expertise to make their job easier.

Remember, these individuals are juggling multiple responsibilities and need suppliers who make their lives easier, not harder. Providing clear, actionable options without overloading them with details helps them confidently advocate for your services to decision-makers.

2. Understand Site Restrictions

Corporate venues often come with strict regulations and limited facilities. For example, many of our corporate clients have offices that prohibit gas, smoke, or open flames, and prep space may be minimal. Before committing to an event:

• - Ask about site-specific restrictions in advance

• - Design a menu that works within these constraints

• - Reassure clients that you’ve got it covered

This proactive approach reflects positively on your client, who’s responsible for the event’s success within their organisation. Additionally, showcasing your adaptability to various environments demonstrates your professionalism and preparedness. Our customers value partners who anticipate challenges and present solutions before problems arise.

3. Be Flexible with Menus

Corporate events often have diverse dietary needs. A standard, adaptable menu that caters to different restrictions or preferences is a winning formula. Aim for simplicity while showcasing what you do best. Tailor your offerings to suit various service styles and always assume the venue might have limitations.

Flexibility also means being able to pivot quickly. For example, if a client requests last-minute changes due to unexpected dietary requirements, having pre-planned alternatives ensures you can accommodate their needs without added stress. This adaptability sets you apart and makes it easier for our customers to book you.

4. Highlight Your Track Record

Corporate clients want to know they’re booking someone reliable. Showcase your experience with other corporate clients to build trust. Share examples of past events, including:

• - Photos of your food and service setups.

• - Branding integration and action shots from events.

• - Testimonials or case studies from satisfied clients. With Togather we do always ask customers to leave a review after the event to help with this.

Sell yourself! Use high quality photos on your Togather profile to highlight your food and branding to give potential clients a clear idea of what to expect. Pair these visuals with a concise description of your business, clear quotes, and positive reviews from other events you’ve worked at.

5. Communicate Clearly and Consistently

Communication is key to putting corporate clients at ease, always make sure:

• - You quote quickly to events that suit your offering

• - You message promptly, and ensure your communication is clear and answers their questions

• - You schedule a pre-event call to address details and logistics. Our Account Managers can be around to help with this.

This level of attention helps relieve the stress on the booker and demonstrates your reliability. Consistent communication builds confidence, ensuring the client feels supported throughout the planning process. Providing regular updates, confirming timelines, and sharing checklists are small gestures that make a big impact.

6. Understand the Purpose Behind the Event

Corporate events are often tied to internal celebrations, milestones, or team-building initiatives. Understanding the “why” behind the event allows you to tailor your services to their goals. A lot of the time, the event request will contain information as to what it is the customer is celebrating.

For example, if the event celebrates a company milestone, consider incorporating thematic elements into your service, such as branded desserts or custom menu items. If it’s a team-building retreat, prioritise interactive dining experiences like live cooking stations. By aligning your offerings with their objectives, you’ll stand out as well as create a more memorable and impactful experience.

7. Address Common Booking Concerns

Sometimes, corporate clients don’t respond because:

• - They’re overwhelmed with options or lack the time to decide.

• - They’re unsure if you’re the right fit for their needs.

Combat these hurdles by making it easy for them to say yes. Provide clear, concise quotes and emphasise your ability to deliver seamless, stress-free events. For example, offer detailed yet straightforward quotes that outline exactly what the client can expect, from setup to cleanup via the Togather platform.

Additionally, consider following up with gentle reminders or additional information to address any lingering concerns. This persistence—balanced with professionalism—shows your commitment to earning their trust.

8. Leverage the Power of Referrals and Networking

Encourage satisfied clients to refer your services or leave reviews on the Togather platform. We will send out a review email, as part of our post event follow up to help you collate these. The nature of corporate bookings, is that a good experience at one company, will usually follow onto other companies as people move from job to job. 

9. Keep improving

Finally, always look for ways to refine your approach. Gather feedback from clients after events to understand what worked well and where you can improve. Demonstrating a willingness to evolve not only enhances your services but also shows clients that you value their input.

Winning over corporate clients isn’t just about offering great food or services. It’s about understanding their unique needs, alleviating their stress, and making them look good in front of their stakeholders. By taking these points into consideration by: preparing for site restrictions, and communicating effectively, you’ll put yourself in the best position possible to get a flurry of corporate bookings with Togather. Whether you’re helping them celebrate a milestone or supporting team unity, your dedication to excellence ensures a lasting impression with these customers that book through us.