Event planners need to set boundaries with clients and workload limits to ensure they are giving their best and are at their best. As event planners, we consider ourselves problem solvers. No challenge too big, no hill too steep. There is always a solution to every problem, and with respect to events, a great event planner behind each solution. But with every great feat, there is likely a sacrifice. Many event professionals can likely attest to blurred lines between…
What the COVID-19 pandemic has taught event industry professionals, is that time may no longer be our number one resource. Prior to the pandemic, most would argue that without enough time a successful event could not be researched, planned, executed and its success and return on investment adequately evaluated. However, the current labour shortage that was left in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, has given us a rude awakening that recovery for many hospitality and tourism businesses is…
In the modern age of employer brand building, companies are racing to keep up with the sentiments and creative needs of employees. We know first-hand that emotionally engaged employees take better care of your customers and strive harder to fulfill the mission of the brand. So, it only makes sense for companies to double down on their efforts to invest in their employees and generate a powerful employer brand experience. Events are a strategic and creative way to engage…
Today, more than ever, cultivating a meaningful and intentional culture of inclusion and belonging for live events is essential to building community and making deep impacts. The most creative, strongest and resilient communities are those that are comprised of diverse kinds of people, from across all demographics. Whether you are designing an event to attract large crowds of people or to serve a particular small group, a common objective can be found: to create a sense of belonging and…
We’re now more than a year into the pandemic and many people continue to work from home. Unsurprisingly, companies are experiencing communication challenges and, in some instances, full-on breakdowns within their teams. Protocol-driven online meetings that were intended to improve the exchange of information and collaboration may actually be undermining those things. Now is the time to switch out unnecessary Zoom check-ins for powerful, synergistic sessions with your team members. Virtual brainstorming is critical for uncovering gold mines of inspirational solutions…
Excerpt from Intentional Event Design, Our Professional Opportunity As we see movement of our stakeholder expectations from event to experience in a world where global migration and ease of travel ensures a diverse mix of participants will be in attendance, we require a rethink of our traditional skill sets. While all the basic skills from budgeting, site selection, contracting, logistics and design must be solid, there is so much more. Building Experience Delivery Teams Who are the right people to…
By Sheila Wong Common courtesy is not just something we remember from the past – it can be an asset in recruiting today. How you treat your candidates before, during and after the interview process is very telling of the type of manager you are perceived to be. It is instrumental in attracting the kind of candidate you need in our service-based industry. How does this apply? It’s a lot like dating. After talking to a classmate from his MBA…
By Sheila Wong Like the real estate market, the events industry takes its cue from the state of the economy. The events industry can be more of a lagging indicator because of the advanced planning required. In recent months, there’s been a hiring buzz in the meetings and events industry for event support staff. Hiring managers are starting to feel the squeeze when it comes to finding good people. This is due to the unemployment rate dropping to a nine-year…
Saying thanks, but no thanks to disruptive volunteers There are few things I find more annoying than the comment, “But I am just a volunteer!” Some people join boards or committees only to network, which is noticeable and can often impact the impression you leave. And sometimes not in a good way. What led us here? Performance problems relate to the quality, quantity, timeliness of the work or rate of improvement on an assignment. Your expectations should be clearly outlined…
By Issa Jouaneh Meetings and events are about bringing people together. This is an industry that combines art and science to create unforgettable experiences, and relies heavily on talent within to manage the seamless execution of those experiences. To succeed, it takes a special kind of person with the right training, a firm grasp on new technology, passion and integrity. My team at American Express Meetings & Events has explored the future of talent in the meetings and events industry,…
