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Going Green with the Colorado Convention Center

May 14, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

Blue bear looking into the window of the colorado convention center

Photo courtesy of the Colorado Convention Center

By making small adjustments and modifications, a convention center can make a substantial and impressive impact.

The green, eco-friendly crusade started small and developed into the sustainable infrastructure it has become today. Whether it is at home or at work the “green” passion has stretched across the globe. Phrases like eco-friendly and green have become popular and key words in our vocabulary when it comes to describing the planet and our environment. Everywhere you look and everything you read says green is the new black. Meaning it is in trend to be eco-friendly and green in your home life as well as in your business. There was a time when just the thought of being green and living an eco-friendly lifestyle was a turn off and automatically brought on thoughts of being a tree huger. But we have come a long way baby and now it is all about living the best possible life including the impact our actions have on the globe.

Being green and eco-friendly means respecting our planet and being aware and mindful of how we use our water, energy, products and sources in relation to the environment and our everyday world. It means respecting our environment and the ecosystem and amongst other things incorporating into daily life and work whenever possible; composting and the three R’s reduce, recycle, reuse. And these days being green and eco-friendly is definitely easier than you think.

Why is it important to work with an Eco-Friendly Green Convention Center?

Within the meetings and conventions industry, there has been a rise in the understanding and appreciation of what it means to be eco-friendly and green. While at the same time venues and convention centers are implementing ways to help the planet by saving energy and water, employing recycling practices, buying locally, donating excess, reducing pollution, using eco-friendlier transportation substitutes and utilizing natural and ecologically aware products.

Meeting planners have embraced and supported the standards and principals required to guide the industry and those determined to produce more environmentally balanced business settings that inspire the on-going development of greener convention centers and venues. And whenever possible implement and uphold eco-friendly procedures to ensure future greener meetings and events.

What Makes the Colorado Convention Center Eco-Friendly and Green?

The $64,000 question; what does make the Colorado Convention Center eco-friendly?

“Denver is a natural fit for green meetings and events”. That is one of the more important things you’ll hear when in the city of Denver and talking about the Colorado Convention Center. Denver, yes the city, is committed to the sustainable development and ecologically-friendly practices that help to develop a green Denver as well as green meetings. And when Governor John Hickenlooper was mayor, he realized how important sustainability was so he developed a program called Greenprint Denver. The program provides leadership and solutions to ensure a prosperous community where people and nature thrive.

The ultimate in goals is to make all events held at the Colorado Convention Center eco-friendly, removing that imaginary line between a standard event and a green event. Always searching and striving for new procedures, practices and guidelines while retaining the ones that work operationally and adapting the ones that don’t. Due to the efforts to become eco-friendly and green the Colorado Convention Center has received the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the EMS 14001 Certification as part of CCC City and County of Denver Overall Certification as well as being recognized by the Colorado Meeting and Events magazine as the Best Green Meeting Facility in 2009.

What is the Eco-Friendly Focus of the Colorado Convention Center?

The Colorado Convention Center has focused their sustainable efforts in the following areas:

• Energy Reduction and Alternative Sources
• Waste Reduction and Diversion
• Water Consumption and Quality
• Air quality and alternative transportation
• Community

And as the first venue to receive certification as a venue which meets the ASTM Environmentally Sustainable Meetings, Events, Trade Shows, and Conferences (E2774-11), the Colorado Convention Center continually aspires to lead the industry in terms of sustainable practices. Their robust commitment to sustainability also includes a 300-kilowatt solar power system and they take their commitment to being eco-friendly very seriously by having a program manager available on site ready to answer questions about anything relating to sustainability.

Simply said, eco-friendly means earth friendly. How a convention center is built is of the utmost of importance but is only part of the picture. The structure, how it is operated as well as how it is reducing its impact on the environment are equally significant. We all have to do our part, whether at home or in business by implementing the best green practises whenever possible.

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: eventprofs, Green, meetingprofs, meetings, planning, sustainable

Meeting and Event Planning – Success Starts with Knowledge

April 18, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

computer keys with the enter key in gold with the word success

Photo courtesy of csitscenter

When it comes to meeting and event planning, there are as many types of meetings and events as there are reasons to have them. Events and meetings bring together people for an assortment of reasons and are used to educate, resolve issues, brainstorm, team build, motivate and so much more. For a meeting or event to be effective and successful it takes a boat load of knowledge, resources and planning, planning, planning.

When planning a meeting or event as equally important as the location, room style and set-up is the meeting type. With all the different kinds of meetings and events along with the various terms to describe them it is imperative to understand the various explanations.

Meeting and Event Planning – Knowledge Starts with Information

When in the process of meeting and event planning it is helpful to categorize the various types of meetings or events with the function reason as well as the type of attendee that will be partaking. With all the kinds of meetings, different gatherings require distinct and different preparations, location, set-up, timing and logistics and so on. Once you establish the meeting type and goal, you then can make the appropriate plans to successfully accomplish the purpose and objectives.

Meeting and Event Planning – Different Types of Meetings

A Seminar is a meeting about a particular subject and is largely planned for education reasons, or is held to instruct and coach groups on certain subject matters and skills. Most often a seminar is led by industry authorities and specialists.

A Conference is a well-planned, executed gathering of a group of individuals to discuss, debate and deliberate specific topics and information. It is larger than a meeting and while similar to a convention it is smaller in size but one thing is for sure; no matter the topic it’s all about communication.

A Symposium is an organized meeting where an authority in a specific industry convenes, presents and communicates. The objective is to talk about and provide ideas, advice and a recommended plan of action.

A Workshop is similar to a seminar and is often misidentified. While like a seminar a workshop is an educationally based event, as a rule a workshop is a group, down to business and participatory activity. Workshops are an excellent set-up for problem solving and teaching, relationship building and hands-on learning experiences.

Meeting and Event Planning – Different Types of Events

A Team Building Event is held to help employees and teams; get to know one another better, improve relationships, build trust, sharpen communication, increase efficiency and work out differences. They can run the gamut from scavenger hunts to chocolate making to white water rafting to a day at the circus.

A Product Launch is the introduction of goods to the marketplace. As a rule this is the first time customers have the opportunity to see and learn about a new product. Industry and media professionals are invited to partake in the launch of the product. More times than not the event is a large one and can add to or take away from a company’s success.

A Tradeshow is a presentation planned for organizations of a particular industry to unveil, explain and showcase services and products to peers, professionals and authorities alike in their industry. It is also about the interaction and connections between individuals sharing experiences and know-how.

With all the different and assorted kinds of meetings and events and the varied terms to describe them the waters can definitely become muddy. Recently I was working with some meeting and event planning students and they were firing off questions after questions with an emphasis on meeting types and rooms set-up. I thought perfect opportunity for a blog post. This is just a smattering of the various types of meetings and events, what’s missing?

Filed Under: Planning An Event Tagged With: eventplanning, eventprofs, events, meetingprofs, meetings, plananevent, planning

Attending Event Planning Conferences

April 16, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of sirwiseowl

Attending event planning conferences and tradeshows is a great opportunity to augment and grow your industry knowledge. It is also a chance to get some answers to some of your most unanswered and pressing business questions. And in addition to increasing your know-how, skill and expertise going to conferences and tradeshows provides the occasion to hear and learn about; new industry products and services, industry progress and education and career approach and advancement.

If I’ve learned anything (and I believe I have) over the years to be successful when planning a conference or meeting, it is imperative to not only have access to but understand the tools available to help as well.

Benefits of Attending Event Planning Conferences

Whether you are new to the industry or like me are an “old timer” there are endless positives and benefits to attending industry conferences.

Networking, Networking, Networking – Attending and networking at a conference is a great way to meet and connect with people and is so important for personal and professional development. It allows the opportunity to learn and share with others, to shape and influence business, to receive and provide inspiration and reassurance and encourage collaboration and relationship building. We all need to invest in ourselves and our industry peers; it’s definitely a win-win situation.

Meet Crucial Decision Makers – In any industry, it can be a difficult process to get past that gate keeper and get those face-to-face conversations and meetings with decision makers. And we all know success can absolutely hinge on getting through to exactly that person, the decision maker. Conference delegates are provided with the maximum opportunity to mingle, network and connect with key decision makers providing the opportunity to bond and develop business relationships.

Keep Up-to-Date – A bonus when attending conferences and tradeshows is the opportunity to stay up-to-date on all the latest and greatest; technology, news and trends while at the same time learning about innovative info, skills and techniques. It’s the chance to share, learn from others, evaluate the market, appreciate the changes and discover new and exciting industry highlights and trends. Staying on top of and learning new things is a great way to ensure that when the time comes you are in the perfect position for career advancement.

Attending Event Planning Conferences – Hospitality Design Expo + Conference

Things have definitely changed. And whether you are attending or exhibiting, these days there are plenty of worthwhile event planning conferences in the marketplace. And every once and a while in this blog we will try and spotlight some of the good ones.

If you are a professional in the hospitality industry looking for some solutions to today’s challenges. If you are interested in finding out about and assessing industry tools, products and services for success then this could be the conference for you. Coming up May 15th-17th at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, the Hospitality Design Expo+Conference will once again be held. Every May since 1992, the Hospitality Design Magazine has been getting together over 7000 attendees and over 900 exhibitors to network with industry frontrunners and trailblazers and participate in the Expo and conference meetings.

The Hospitality Design Expo+Conference showcases industry leaders of the latest and greatest and state-of-the-art services and products, sharing ideas and boosting conversation while providing motivation and encouragement. This action packed conference chucked full of information and ideas is 100% focused on hospitality design. Ask any hospitality design professional and they will tell you “their” show is the Hospitality Design Expo + Conference, “the epi-center for the latest and most innovative products and services for their changing needs”.

Event planning conferences are a leading-edge way to stay up to date on industry know-how, resources, education, products and services. A way to network, shape and grow a career and business. Attending event planning conferences help us to learn and make the most of our experiences, skills and capabilities.

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: Conferences, eventplanning, eventprofs, events, meetingprofs, meetings, planning

The Perfect Destination – San Diego and the San Diego Convention Center!

March 26, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

picture of the sandiego convention center

Photo courtesy of zemistor

I love the opportunity to travel around and work at various convention centers located around the US and Canada. Every time I work in a city and at a convention center that I am unaccustomed to I learn something new. And since I started working in this industry my personal mandate has been to learn something new whenever possible. During a recent inter office meeting the subject of favorite convention centers to work at came up. And it really did get me thinking. There are so many great cities with great convention centers it’s so hard to choose just one. And yes when it comes to site selection there is more on the list than just a great city and convention center.

It’s Always Sunny and 75 Degrees at the San Diego Convention Center

Some of my favorite cities and convention centers to work in include New Orleans, Chicago, San Antonio, Toronto and San Francisco. But top of the list is San Diego and the San Diego Convention Center. Just recently I was working a program in San Diego at the convention center and had a renewed affection for this world class facility.

When you talk about San Diego the first thing locals and visitors alike will mention is “it’s always sunny and 75”. And while that is mostly true, as I have worked programs while it rained or was cooler throughout; it always does feel like a picture perfect climate. Whether you’ve been to San Diego before or you’re a first timer, whether in town for a vacation or conference, there is always something to do or see. San Diego is a hard to beat convention destination and really does come equipped with everything you need for success. Besides a world class convention center, this area is infused with a collection of accommodations, venues, attractions and restaurants. I guess simply said San Diego is a great destination to host a meeting or conference.

Shine the Light on the San Diego Convention Center

Welcome to the San Diego Convention Center! Located a quick 10 minutes from the airport the San Diego Convention Center can be found right in the center of it all in lively downtown. With plenty of adaptable and accommodating space, top-quality services and a top-notch team second to none, makes it a meeting planner’s top choice for all things meeting, special event, trade show and convention. This easy to get around town is equipped with a handy and accessible public transportation system has become one of the west coast’s most desirable locales. With the convention center situated within two miles of over 11,000 first-rate hotel rooms and more including four headquarter hotels, delegates can easily walk to a great assortment of entertainment, restaurants, attractions and more.

San Diego the eighth largest city in the United States and the second largest in California is a city well known for many things; the beaches, the shopping, the views, the weather and a hard-to-beat convention center making it a meeting planner’s best reality. Based on size this convention center is rated 24th out of over 450 convention facilities in North America. And with 2.6 million square feet, this building has an abundance of indoor and outdoor meeting and exhibit space that can accommodate groups of all sizes.

Success at the San Diego Convention Center

I often use the expression success is in the details and this couldn’t be truer when it comes to choosing the right city and convention center. The San Diego Convention Center sales and convention services team will assist with everything from meeting and destination needs to customized services. They will manage all your needs from housing to registration from staffing to promotion and so much more. The team comes to the table with a wide range of help, suggestions, advice, recommendations, knowledge and resources. As they say “you’ve come to the right place for planning a seamless event from start to finish”.

When it comes to planning and hosting the best ever conference it takes a balance of building, building services and people. The San Diego Convention Center has that combination of experience, knowledge and expertise. The team is there to assist and support you every step of the way. Remember success is definitely in the details and you are sure to find just that when working with this outstanding building and team.

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: conventions, dmcprofs, eventprofs, meetingprofs, meetings, planning

Stuck in a Rut and Need Motivation?

March 21, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

hand written paper sign with "be awesome signed in your head"

Photo courtesy of robbed

Are you stuck in a rut and need motivation? Well you’re not alone. I’m not sure if it’s (a) the time of year, (b) the pile of work on my desk, (c) the ever growing to-do list, (d) my low energy or (e) I just need a vacation but from where I sit it does feels like (f) all of the above. And it really makes no difference how ambitious, determined and confident you are, we all go through a phase where we lack the inspiration and motivation to get through it all. We all know what it feels like when we get stuck and it’s never, ever a fun experience. The facts prove a shortage of motivation amounts to a shortage of productivity. It’s like the hamster on a wheel, the same negative and unhelpful thoughts repeat in our head over and over again.

Needing Motivation to Get Unstuck, You’re Not Alone!

I don’t know many people that every single day are able to bounce out of bed motivated and ready to take the world on with a smile. I’m talking to you Mary Richards! We all have those times that no matter what we do we just aren’t able to drum up the passion, energy and motivation to get the work done. And for anyone that has ever been stuck, sometimes no matter how hard we try, it can become a destructive and discouraging scenario. Have no fear there are things we can do to restore the passion and motivation we need to be productive.

Four Tips to Help Find Lost Motivation

Yes sometimes it can feel that it’s easier to remain deep rooted in that rut believing the circumstances will turn themselves around. But that couldn’t be further then the truth. When looking to break out of a rut, the first place to look for a solution is in the mirror. So if you want to change and ignite that inner motivation, first and foremost accept that the power is in your hands.

Recognize the Signs – At all times, but especially now, It is vital to take the time to realize and become familiar with what you are actually feeling. It is imperative that you understand how and what affects you and how you react to the good and the bad; stress, achievements, worry, tension, successes and the like. By being able to recognize and handle your emotions and feelings you are able to help yourself whether already in a rut or heading that way.

Find What Really Motivates – Take the time for some introspection and discover what really motivates you outside your career. Are you into exercise, helping others or is there a special hobby that encourages you and gets your motor revved? Sometimes the change we need is right at the end of our nose. Once you do determine what inspires you can make all the difference, shake things up by incorporating a new or different activity into your life.

Set Goals – It is important to be able to take the reins and rely on ourselves to refuel, inspire, motivate, excite and challenge. The powers that be don’t always have the time or personal motivation to set goals for others. They don’t have to be huge, set the world on fire goals but by setting and tracking our goals we get to see how far we’ve come and what we have actually accomplished. That alone can help turn around one’s perspective and attitude.

Keep At It – We all know it but it does bear repeating, work produces results and isn’t that the name of the game. Not one single person is motivated every day. But by continuing to chip away at the work on hand and never ending to-do list, especially when you’re not into it, can become the motivation you need. Remember daily or weekly to acknowledge and value your achievements. Seeing ones successes can be just that inspiration you needed.

If you want make a change now is the time. Lack of motivation is no reason to not do something. So many times lack of motivation is tied to attitude, approach and frame of mind but really in life it’s about the journey not the destination, right? Start today taking steps to make the changes and turn things around. Renew your passion, move forward and start creating that energy and movement you need and hopefully soon you’ll be able to say rut what rut.

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: dmcprofs, eventprofs, meetingprofs, motivation, planning

Event Ethics, Meeting Planner and Supplier Edition

March 20, 2013 By Andrew Maxwell Comments

shaking hands with fingers crossed behind back

photo by jaypgreene.com

The better part of my event planning career has been on the supplier side of the industry. Specifically I was a partner with a small boutique destination management company (DMC). It was our job to act as a broker for our clients, meeting planners. In order for us to win a piece of business, we would compile a proposal that we would then present to a meeting planner. That proposal would encompass a program outline based on the criteria that was provided to us by the planner. And our competitors were doing the same thing in hopes that they would win the meeting planner’s business.

Quite often I found that our venue suppliers were, at times, put into an awkward situation. You see, as part of our proposal we would often put venues on hold by providing the meeting name to the supplier. And our competitors did the same thing. Suppliers that understood how DMCs worked knew that one of the bookings would, most likely, be successful and that they would be awarded the business.

Is a Meeting Planner Obligated to Work with the Supplier without a Contract?

Here’s where the awkward situation sometimes occurred.

A DMC is not necessarily known outside of the meetings and events industry. They work very diligently in the background to ensure that their client’s program is a success. DMC’s are very well known by meeting planners and event suppliers. I can’t tell you how many times that I would get a call from one of our venues where we had placed a hold, telling me that the meeting planner had called them directly to finalize the booking.

Here’s Where the Event Ethics Issues Arose.

Fortunately for my company, we had great relationships with our suppliers and venues. I’m not trying to say that a meeting planner does not have the right to deal directly with any supplier or venue. Of course they do. What I do, however, have a problem with is when those particular meeting planners ask you (and most likely your competitors) to spend time sourcing appropriate suppliers and venues for their programs knowing very well that they have no intention of booking with you, or your competitors for that matter.

text stating you need to know what's happening behind your back

photo by hackingshmacking(dot)com

We were fortunate as those venues would build in a commission to us. While that was not mandatory, we did feel it was appropriate as we had pitched that particular venue to our potential client. The ethical suppliers understand this. And for those that did not… Well, safe to say we didn’t continue proposing them unless they were an absolute fit for a potential client.

I’m talking about this issue because I hope to impress upon new planners entering the industry. This practice is not considered ethical. While there are no repercussions that can be done towards a planner, I have found, through my experience, that they soon obtain a reputation within the industry. And, as such, very soon that planners job becomes more difficult with time. Nobody wants to work with them.

We’ve talked a lot about the Association for Destination Management Executives (ADME) here. I can remember when this association was just getting underway. All of us in the industry, even though we were competitors, were excited by the fact that we had one Association that could now set industry standards moving forward.

Some additional articles regarding the Association for Destination Management Executives (ADME):

Key Items for an Event Planner Contract

Say YES to Destination Management!

Ethics in any industry can be a touchy subject. And, more times than not, trying to lay blame or pointing fingers only ends up hurting you. But, by establishing standards for the event planning industry, we are hoping to create a level playing field that all of the players can abide by.

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: ADME, DMC, eventplanning, eventprofs, meeting planner, meetingprofs

Selecting the Right Convention Center

March 19, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of Photomatt28

When planning a conference, the convention center decision is always one of the more significant decisions. It is the foundation for everything that follows. Top of the list for every planner is finding that perfect venue for all our needs, wants and requirements. Choosing a city location and venue can be an extremely challenging and stressful responsibility. As I have mentioned a time or two, when it comes to conference planning, success is definitely in the details. And when it comes to the task of selecting the perfect convention center there is an unbelievable list of details to keep in mind including location, price, hotels, availability and really so much more. Once the city and convention center choices have been made, it allows for all the other planning to begin.

Things to Remember When Selecting a Convention Center

Coordinating a conference with the appropriate venue can help turn a conference from okay to amazing. It really is essential to take into account the kind of convention center that will best fulfill the conference objectives and goals. In addition to knowing the conference needs, we must understand the program, the delegates, the reason for the conference and ultimately what is needed for success. And when looking for the best location and venue for a conference, there are so many different options to choose from. So by taking the time to plan and evaluate the essentials and depending on the actual conference; size, type and intention, deciding on the just right conference center can be as easy as 1-2-3.

Tips to Help When Selecting a Convention Center

In North America alone, there are too many convention centers to count. And no matter what, each and every convention center would not be appropriate or match our blueprint of requirements. So when it’s time to make that crucial convention center choice, keep in mind the following elements.

Building – Ask the questions; How old is the building; when were the last renovations completed, what is the vicinity to hotels, what makes the space special or different and what other clients are booked over your dates.

Space – It is imperative to ensure the building has ample space for your program and is big enough to hold the delegates. There is nothing more distressing than too many people in not enough space. When looking for success be sure the center is roomy enough and can accommodate the meeting size, set-up and number of meeting rooms needed.

Accessibility – Consider the delegates and how they will be traveling to the conference. Is the center easy to get to from the airport? Does the center provide any type of shuttle? What’s the parking situation like?

Convention Services – Convention Centers provide an array of services, some in-house and some not so much. Find out what they offer and think about the services that are important to you, the convention and success. If the service providers are contracted out and you are automatically committed to working with them without the opportunity to make your own choices. Find this out and negotiate prior to contact signing. It really is key to fully explore the venue and what they offer before signing on that dotted line.

Costs – Again, ask questions. Be certain as to what services are included in the rental cost. Does the cost include tables and chairs, set-up, break-down and clean-up? You’ll want to know the center regulations and restrictions as well as the cancellation policies. First and foremost avoid any surprises and assume nothing.

When it comes to organizing a conference preparedness and planning are essential. It is all about knowledge and making and reaching conference objectives and goals. And yes choosing the right site and convention center is top of the list. Do the work, know what you are looking for and ask questions.

Filed Under: Planning A Conference Tagged With: dmcprofs, eventable, eventplanning, eventprofs, meetingprofs, meetings, planning

Stress and The Life of a Meeting Planner!

March 12, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

black word stress, slightly faded from a green pencil erraser

Courtesy of Alan Cleaver

It seems with every report and survey that screams a meeting planner is amongst the top ten best careers comes equally compelling reports that say being a meeting planner can be one of the most stressful occupations as well. As I type I can hear a rousing “exactly” from all my meeting planner friends. And no matter the career, I’ll be the first to say that every job comes with its own set of pressures and worries. And as we all know meeting planners definitely encounter and tackle some of the trickier and more demanding scenarios, and are almost always under some kind of stress and pressure to ensure success is met.

For a Meeting Planner Success is the Name of the Game!

You may wonder how a meeting planner can land on both lists. But if you have ever had the responsibility to plan a meeting or event then you know exactly how and why. As blogged a zillion times or more, a meeting planner is responsible for the planning and executing of all phases of a meeting or event. And is accountable for every single thing from budgets to site selection from negotiations to on-site coordination and everything else in between including (but not limited to) speakers, transportation, venues, menu selection and so much more. And while a career as a meeting planner comes with some gratifying and rewarding possibilities and experiences, to be successful takes a lot of multi-tasking, pedal to the metal, work. Next time you’re at an event, watch the meeting planner and all the behind the scenes craziness that goes on and you will really appreciate what it takes to achieve success.

Meeting Planner Prescription – Less Stress, Prioritize and Laugh More!

Responsible for more or less everything, a meeting planner almost always can be found right in the middle of it all. While ensuring the meetings and events are running effortlessly and efficiently and the delegates are satisfied, the meeting planner probably hasn’t eaten a “real” meal, taken a break, had a proper night’s sleep and don’t get me started on the hours. And while meeting planning can be amazingly fulfilling and a satisfying experience it can also be one of the more demanding, nerve-racking and yes stressful ones.

It has been said that for meeting planners stress is to be expected and no matter what is unavoidable. We’ve heard it before and don’t need a Doctor to tell us how bad stress is for us and the harmful influence it can have on our health. And some say the secret to managing stress is all about attitude and taking a positive approach. So if stress is in fact inescapable then why not jump the line and implement some easy to use tips.

Be Prepared – Do not, I repeat do not leave anything to the last minute. Create a to-do list and follow it. Book it, get confirmations in writing and be sure to confirm all services prior to execution. You’ll be so glad you did. The number one way to prevent stress is to be prepared.

Have a Plan B – By having a back-up plan just in case, knowing we can’t control it all will go a long way to easing stress. Concentrate on what you can manage, organize and manipulate and be assured that the Plan B is there, should you have to pull it out of your hat.

Take Care – Nourish yourself by eating right, getting enough shut eye and incorporating exercise into your routine. First instinct is to always say impossible, there is no time. But by making health top of the to-do list, we help to alleviate stress and allow more valuable time to get the work done. It’s truly a win-win situation.

Incorporate Laughter – A good laugh definitely goes a long, long way to brighten up a mood and who doesn’t enjoy a good chuckle. Whenever possible take some time for a bit of fun and a giggle, it truly will make all the difference.

In the end, it really is up to each of us to find the solutions that will help to create the job and life that works best. For all those meeting planners that still can’t see their desk or the light of day, take a minute to prioritize, shake up your routine, enjoy a laugh, get some sleep easy first steps on the road to having a happy and compatible work and personal life.

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: meeting planner, meeting planning, meetingprofs, meetings, planning

What Should I Do If I Want To Be An Event Planner?

March 7, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

blue background and part of a red and white life preserver

Photo courtesy fo HIl

What should I do if I want to be an Event Planner? That was the question waiting for me when I answered the phone the other day. On the other end was a friend’s daughter (yes I’m old) who will be graduating from university with a business degree this spring. And as you could surmise has decided event planning is the career for her. And while she is excited at the thought she has no idea where to start. My first question to her was “Are you sure”? As anyone in this industry already knows this is a career takes a lot of hard work, time, multi-tasking, energy and passion. And for anyone thinking about a career in event planning knowing what an event planner does really is the first step.

Industry outsiders, my family included, think that an event planner’s job is all about the bells and whistles of parties and socializing. That we stroll about, glass of wine in hand accepting all the compliments for a job well done. A relative once told me how lucky I was because I get to go and enjoy so many great events and celebrations, which of course couldn’t be farther from the truth.

What Does An Event Planner Really Do?

If contemplating a career as an event planner, first and foremost it is imperative to understand what an event planner does indeed do. It is the job of an event planner to plan, coordinate and oversee each and every component of a meeting, event, conference or incentive program. A planner is responsible for the overall event operations and logistics by working with the client to establish their desires, requirements and objectives. The job can consist of an endless amount of details from budgets to schedules; site selection to contract negotiation; supplier management to menu coordination; and most times the list of tasks seems literally never ending. Let’s not forget about staying on top of all the city protocols, laws, street permits and any legal requirements. And don’t get me started on the individual personalities, unrealistic expectations, long hours and demanding work that are all part of the job. No matter the type of event or experience the event planner is accountable for every part.

First Steps to Figuring Out If An Event Planner Career is For You

Research and Learn - Learn about the industry. Take the time to research the ins and outs of what an event planner actually does on a day to day basis. The title event planner covers a plethora of positions, everything from wedding professional to meeting planner from corporate planner to catering consultant from conference organizer to meeting manager. So consider what role you are interested in tackling. Talk to industry professionals to see what the job means to them, read books and magazines and go online to understand the outlook, opportunities, expectations and what interests you most.

Get Experience – Connect with some planners and ask if you can volunteer to work in the office and on site. Or offer your help; to a friend planning a wedding, events at your kid’s school, to a hotel or industry organization, to a fundraiser or festival just get engaged. The only way to find out what this industry and position are all about and what it really takes for success is to get involved. Think outside the box and whenever possible ask questions lots of questions. If you don’t have any planning experience volunteering is a great way to understand what it’s all about and get some on the job training. The bottom line is to do whatever it takes to learn and improve your know-how and understanding by getting some hands on involvement and experience.

Network, Network, Network - I’m sure you’ve heard of the expression “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know” but I feel when it comes to success it takes a combination of both. It is imperative for event planners new or otherwise to get out and meet like-minded individuals and establish those essential contacts and relationships. It is the perfect chance to seek out opportunities to learn and improve. Networking is a great tool to build interest, develop connections and enhance and support long lasting relationships. A networking event is a good way to see and be seen and a very important part of a successful career. Company growth in this industry, in part, relies on the people you know and the people that know you. So get out there, pass out the business cards and network, network, network.

Before you jump in with both feet, take the time to chew it over and appreciate the job is not all fun and flash and really understand what it takes to be an event planner. Remember event planners and planning takes a whole host of skills and truly does require the wearing of many different hats. And then if you feel you have what it takes; the ability and passion; and you find hard work fulfilling and gratifying; this may just be the career for you.

Filed Under: Planning An Event Tagged With: eventplanner, eventplanning, eventprofs, meetingprofs

Top 4 US Convention Centers

March 5, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

White background with the words Convention Center

Photo courtesy of IndianaPublicMedia

Choosing the right city and convention center is a huge part of the convention planning process. When it comes time to create a short list of cities and convention centers and making that final decision, there is a great deal for a meeting professional to take into consideration. Meeting planners are interested in locations that house convention centers that can support as many of their needs, wants and requirements as possible. And when it comes to planning a conference a meeting professional is committed to doing whatever it takes to source out that perfect scenario. They research and explore convention centers that not only appeal to; but can draw a sizable number of delegates and have the amenities and services to encourage and support success.

Top 4 US Convention Centers – Book It!

Experienced planners know that great convention centers located in likable, easy to get to cities make the job of attracting delegates that much easier. And while there are some wonderful cities and convention centers to pick from, whether planning a conference, meeting or trade show what we are all look for is a locale that is that perfect match. There are so many factors that are taken into consideration when it comes to selecting a convention center, venue or meeting facility; ranging from capacity to convenience, customer service to technology, healthy food to green meetings and destination quality to a convention center that recognizes the demands of a meeting planner. The list of needs is long and plentiful and working with a convention center team that knows their stuff makes a meeting planners job that much easier.

Top 4 US Convention Centers for Consideration!

From my own experience working with great convention centers really help a planner to get the job done in a more efficient and hopefully less stressful way. With the click of a mouse you can find lots of different lists of top convention centers. Here is a snapshot of Business Review USA’s list of top four convention centers:

Orange County Convention Center is located a mere 15 minutes from the Orlando International Airport and in the heart of downtown Orange County (Florida) and with over seven million square feet of space, this stunning building is host to a variety of event possibilities. With a line-up of industry pros, the convention center is dedicated to providing the most accomplished and comprehensive programs while ensuring an overall productive and enjoyable experience. And with service partners offering amenities second to none this is a great spot to hold your next conference.

McCormick Place Convention Center is situated just minutes from the heart of downtown Chicago and is the largest convention center in the US. Drawing three million people yearly and consisting of 2.6 million square feet of space (with 1.3 million square feet all on one level) located within four high-tech buildings. Whether a conference, corporate meeting or trade show is on the books, this convention center is the ultimate locale. With an impressive ability and space; resourcefulness and flexibility and a devoted, skilled and knowledgeable team that are ready to help in every way, success will indeed be yours.

Las Vegas Convention Center is one of the most up-to-date and well-designed convention centers conveniently located right next to the Las Vegas Strip. With over 3.2 million square feet of space this convention center is recognized for its adaptability, scope and amenities and committed to handling and overseeing all the elements that make a conference program successful. With an operations team that truly understands what it takes to plan and execute a successful conference they are committed to delivering an amazing customer experience.

Walter E. Washington Convention Center located in downtown Washington DC and supported by three major airports is one of the more user friendly and accessible cities. Capable of handling conferences and meetings from small to large and with 2.3 million square feet of mixed-use space this convention center can accommodate group volumes up to 42,000 delegates. Known for being energy-efficient for its building size, winning awards for both inspiring and contributing to the urban renewal and for a service team, no matter the size, the facilities and amenities are beyond comparison.