Everything from body language, to eye contact, to being respectful and having a firm handshake can lead to a good first impression and help to facilitate relationship building no matter the event. Courtesy of Oana Borcoman

As the corporate and incentive meeting and event industry becomes ever more competitive, the winners will be those who go beyond traditional meeting and event design to deliver memorable, engaging networking experiences for attendees. In addition, meeting planners themselves need to embrace the discipline of effective networking and develop the required skills needed to expand their professional connections.

From improving interpersonal communication skills to understanding the key non-verbal skills required for networking, there are several “must-have” skills that will make any networking efforts successful.

1. Be An Active Listener

Nothing is worse than the “networker” at a corporate event who greets you with a business card upon a handshake and delivers their elevator pitch. “Do not be that person,” says Oana Borcoman, founder & CEO of Evoke, An Experience Agency. The best way to meet people is to practice active listening, where you ask questions and engage with the person you are speaking with in a way that builds familiarity to them and engage in a conversation that is relevant to them.

“This is key in making people feel heard and in creating meaningful, mutually beneficial conversations,” says Borcoman.

As the event planner for “Success Becomes Me,” the only women’s wealth conference in the Midwest, and founder of Infinite HERizons, Bri Seeley also previously ran an un-networking company in Los Angeles that hosted four to five events a month for up to 250 women. The premise of the company was that no one asked, “What do you do?” Instead, they built actual relationships, rather than transactional ones.

“When it comes to active listening, don’t simply listen to [the other person], respond. In order to build an authentic relationship, you need to listen to engage,” Seeley says.

2. Communication Skills

Communication skills range from knowing your tone and approach to responding appropriately. As Borcoman explains, active listening is also a key element of communication. Overall, having communication skills is imperative to networking.

“Be curious,” Seeley adds. “Spend more time learning about who you’re talking to than you do talking about yourself.” You also need to be able to “read” the person – namely, recognize if you are doing most of the talking, when to let the other person share their thoughts and insights, and take the time to create a back-and-forth communication dynamic with each person with whom you engage.

3. Nonverbal Communication Skills

How you look, your body language and your approach say more than words ever could. Our body language can show lack of confidence or come off as rude. What we wear makes everyone’s initial first impression too, so are you professional or dressed inappropriately for the event? Do you appear bored or engaged while chatting with someone?

“While a poker face isn’t always inviting, too much smiling during ‘uncalled for’ moments can be perceived as very rude,” Borcoman says. There are many ways to practice nonverbal communication, but some basics include standing up tall, appearing confident, greeting people with a smile and looking them in the eye when talking.

“Keep your focus on the person you’re speaking with,” Seeley says. Being distracted or looking for the next best thing in the room will deter people from wanting to be in connection with you, thus deterring them from doing business with you or continuing the business relationship after the event has concluded.

4. Interpersonal Skills

Someone with good interpersonal skills is just “great with people.” They have empathy, practice patience with people, keep their word/do what they say, are reliable and trustworthy, and make everyone feel like they are their friend.

As Borcoman points out, the best way to work on your interpersonal skills is to “put yourself in their shoes” and “treat people like you want to be treated.” She says, “Using those two little simple golden rules goes a long way.”

As a communications consultant, Brandi Sims, the founder & CEO of Brandinc PR, has been orchestrating corporate meetings and events for 15 years. She also believes one of the top skills for networking is interpersonal communication skills. Recently, she hosted a Networking Masterclass through Forbes BLK and the biggest challenge shared from participants was the difficulty with finding the right things to say during casual conversations.

“The easiest way to combat this includes finding small details about the individual that can kickstart a conversation, such as noticing a lapel pin of an organization or their request for a drink,” Sims says. “Personally, I like to add a bit of humor as well to open up conversations. There is nothing like bonding over common challenges like having a rough work week or high gas prices and making a joke of it.”

5. Humor

When it comes to networking, humor is a tricky skill to exhibit because everyone’s sense of humor is different. The best advice here is to know your audience. Sarcasm and dry humor, while a personal favorite of Borcoman’s, just doesn’t fly with everyone. Jokes in poor taste or with controversial subjects that offend others may be the quickest way to lose respect from others.

“Be careful with humor, but if done skillfully, it is a wonderful ice breaker,” Borcoman says.

6. Respect

Treating people with respect comes in many forms and is not universal. It is important to know what is expected of you in different scenarios and cultures.

“Are attendees networking with corporate executives or entry level people? Are attendees in sales networking with decision makers/buyers or other salespeople? Are they talking to people from other cultures who have a different expectation of respect in business than we may have in America?” Borcoman says. All of these elements come into play when thinking of respect, but there are some universal rules that apply.

Shake someone’s hand firmly (in American culture), look people in the eyes, do not interrupt them while speaking, respond to instructions with your name and with pleasantries (nice to meet you), etc. When unsure, Borcoman says to address someone elderly or at a higher organizational title than you with “Sir” or “Ma’am” when unsure. You can never be too respectful to someone. You would rather be told to “just call me by my first name” rather than be considered rude. It’s like dress code – it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed and caught in an uncomfortable situation.

Lastly, don’t treat people in a transactional manner. Seeley stresses the importance of respecting them enough to see them and engage with them as a person, not a prospect.

 7. Confidence

Nothing attracts people to people more than confidence. Confidence is the number one attractive trait in business, dating, friendships or any kind of relationships. Walking into a room with a lack of confidence is not only a disservice to yourself, but it also may lead to an inaccurate first impression to your skill level and abilities, causing someone to overlook you rather than walk up to you.

Have the confidence to schedule a follow up time to connect while you’re in person. Emails get lost. Text messages get overlooked.

“If you’re resonating with a person you’ve met, put a virtual coffee in your calendar in the moment,” Seeley suggests.

8. Friendliness

Be friendly and approachable, but also respectful. Approach someone whose stature is higher than yours in their field with utmost respect before casual friendliness. On the flip side, anyone who is your junior or equal (in workplace/organizational structure) should be treated with nothing but a friendly and approachable attitude.

“Be open to meeting everyone at the event,” Seeley says. You never know who this person knows and you never know what a new connection could create for you (or for them).

9. Social skills

Social skills are underutilized skills that should be included in effective networking. As Sims points out, while we rely heavily on technologies for our day-to-day communication, it can be a hindrance when we’re relying on it as our sole source of communication and no longer exercising our in-person social skills.

“Good networking involves a strong awareness and use of social skills which tap directly into both verbal and nonverbal communication,” Sims says. “Each of us should make it a priority to engage with people beyond the computer monitor or cellphone to exercise this skill.”

How To Create A Successful Networking Environment

In addition to honing the top skills needed for networking at events, meeting planners shared additional tips that go a long way in networking activities.

One key piece of advice is to create conversational pieces throughout the event that can act as ice breakers. These can be experiential moments, photo moments or just something engaging.

“Adults don’t want awkward games or forced conversation starters as the ice breakers, but saying ‘wow that’s very cool’ can be the perfect start to a familiar conversation with others,” Borcoman says.

Another oldie but goodie is the simplest of all – provide drinks and snacks. People feel more comfortable with something in hand or the distraction of a delicious bite. It gives people something to ‘do’ while they muster up the confidence to speak to others.

As someone who has planned dozens of in-person and virtual events, Sims’ best advice for the meeting planner is to remember to engage with the audience too. As she explains, networking isn’t just limited to people you service, but it is something you must actively engage in to reach people at their level.

“There are so many instances where an event attendee became a client, colleague or resource from casual conversations during these networking events,” Sims says.

One of the networking tactics Sims has used is offering prompt cards to encourage engagement and interaction of attendees. Bingo cards are one of the easiest ways to get people engaging and interacting without feeling pressured or unsure of what to say to others. The first time Sims did this was during a Women’s Summit she planned where the primary audience was entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals ranging from banking to nonprofits.

“The prompts were simple and asked guests to perform tasks that required a signature to complete,” Sims says. “For example, one prompt asked if someone was a business owner for at least five years and had that attendee sign to confirm. At the end of the event, cards submitted would be entered to win a prize. This was a simple but effective way to get guests networking with each other.”

Seeley also suggests planners send out networking tips and a list of ice breaker questions that attendees can use at the event. It will help people think past the generic question of “What do you do?” and support them in building long-term relationships with client or referral partners.

Also, be sure to schedule in space for people to connect. If your agenda is packed with back-to-back speakers or presenters, it prevents attendees from forming genuine relationships and having deeper conversations that lead to long-term connections.

“Create a culture of connection,” Seeley says. “Networking isn’t about amassing business cards, but rather building relationships. Connection over transactions is the culture that will keep attendees coming back to your events again and again.”

Networking Dos and Don’ts

When incorporating networking opportunities within a corporate event environment, it is vital that event planners avoid some common mistakes. One of the most common is thinking that people just want to network and give them nothing engaging in the event itself.

“A great event will bring attendee’s energy up and confidence up, and conversation will happen naturally with that,” Borcoman says. “Any great event needs to have basics … food, drinks, music/background music, some form of entertainment or engaging activity and be visually welcoming. The same applies for networking events. Do not forgo ‘fun event elements’ just because it is a business-focused event. People always love to be surprised.”

The biggest common mistake Sims sees meeting planners make around networking is the assumption that people will simply engage because they are in a common, shared space together. That’s not always the case, so it’s good to have activities within the event that prompt engagement.

“In the past, I’ve had events use prompt cards to encourage people to interact with others. Prompts help those that are unsure of what to say or how to start conversations with easy prompts to kickstart a discussion,” Sims says.

Remember, as event planners, your job is to deliver a welcoming and memorable experience that encourages people to be themselves and be motivated and confident. You cannot force people into networking situations, so create an environment where that will happen organically and people want to stay rather than leave as fast as possible.

“Create comfortable seating areas or areas that make it easy for dynamic conversations to be joined,” Borcoman says. “Give people welcomed distractions or surprises that they can use as an excuse to move around the room and not be stuck. Overall, focus on the event experience and attendees will take care of the networking part for themselves.” C&IT

From its reforestation program to preservation of its reefs, Hawaii is dedicated to sustainability. © Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Vincent Lim

“Sustainability” has become an industry buzzword, but regardless of its potential for overuse (or misuse), it is an important aspect of event planning, given the sheer number of U.S.-based conferences, conventions, meetings and incentive trips.

The good news is that due to the volume of events being held in this post-pandemic era, planners have a unique opportunity to make a positive impact by incorporating sustainable practices into their events and including sustainability mandates into their RFPs.

According to the United Nation’s World Commission on Environment and Development, “sustainable” is defined as: Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

As definitions go, this one is spot-on when applying it to creating, and attending, sustainable events. With many attendees feeling overwhelmed when it comes to fulfilling expectations, what are planners doing to ensure the venues they select are following sustainable practices?

It all starts with, “Who?”

It goes without saying that, for planners, attendees are front-of-mind when it comes to asking, “Who does this benefit, and what are they expecting or hoping for at this event?”

Equally as important is taking into consideration the local community, which can range from employees at the venue, to local vendors or food purveyors, to those working at charitable organizations in the surrounding neighborhood.

With an emphasis being placed on community engagement and social responsibility, planners can respond by partnering with properties to ensure their groups are being mindful of things like utilizing public transportation, purchasing locally grown, raised or prepared consumables, or reaching out to community leaders to support clean-up efforts or donate a portion of the event proceeds.

Magaret Tesky, president of Taste Catering in San Francisco, CA, has been in the industry for 25 years. While “sustainable” has become a touchpoint for many, she notes that while a venue might emphasize their role in the mission, it’s often the provider who bears the greatest responsibility for accomplishing certain mandates.

“As a caterer, we combat food waste by coordinating with ‘runners’ in the areas we serve,” says Tesky. “They pick up and redistribute surplus food to nearby communities, which helps support a diverse array of people.”

Bridget Switzer, director, design studio and environmental strategy at Maritz, in Fenton, MO, supports that ethos of donating to those in need and takes into consideration unused perishables. Says Switzer, “As a team we ask ourselves: ‘Does the venue have a donation program in place for excess food or leftover materials?’ And we want to understand their procedure for waste.”

In the case of Taste, relying on compostables (versus disposables) for food service is an area they’ve responded to by using safe-certified bamboo, palm leaf or other biodegradables. Another option they offer is a service called ‘Light Touch,’ which includes the use of ceramic platters the company picks up after the event.

“In California, we have to meet standards set by the California Department of Resources, Recycling, and Recovery (CalRecycle),” Tesky explains, “as well as by agencies such as the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI). Using products that are free from certain chemicals (like BPA) also fall under those mandates.”

Tesky also notes a shift away from planners selecting meat-heavy menus and using portion-controlled servings instead of open buffets or offering plant-based food options. “This really resonates with our clients” she says, as does selecting seafood that’s been approved by the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s ‘Seafood Watch’ list, and selecting meat from farms that adhere to humane standards for livestock.

“We’ve seen the rise in more vegetarian meal options, too,” she adds. Taste recently catered several gala dinners that ranged from 250-to-1,000 guests, and they prepared and served 100% plant-based meals, which the event organizers asked for.

“Where” should we hold the event?

After the “who” part of the equation has been addressed, the “where” aspect comes into focus.

In terms of venue selection, it isn’t just about the facility; it includes the destination. While it might be easy to deduce that larger West Coast cities such as San Francisco, Portland and Seattle, would have LEED Platinum Certified convention centers and provide best-in-class city-wide recycling, other cities across the country are equally mindful and deserve a seat at the table.

So, where to begin in terms of finding, comparing and selecting a desirable locale?

Rachael Riggs is the general manager, environmental strategy at Maritz, and worked to create a practical tool to assist the team in making initial decisions regarding the “Where?” part of the puzzle.

Explains Riggs, “When I first started in this role, I created a Sourcing Decision Tree for our team. First, we look at the city and ask, ‘Are they considered sustainable?’ There are several indexes [for determining that], but we use the CDP Cities A List.”

The Carbon Disclosure Project, or CDP, recognizes cities that have been named as leaders in environmental action, ambition and transparency. Started in 2018, the list recognizes cities that celebrate their achievements, vision and commitment in the fight against climate change.

Once a city has been identified using the CDP’s “A List,” Riggs and her team members, which includes Switzer, turn their attention to what venues a city has that meet certain criteria, including sustainability certifications (like the aforementioned LEED-grade). “In my opinion,” says Riggs, “they must have a certification of some kind; it takes work to become certified, and that demonstrates commitment.”

“Properties that have integrated sustainability into their design are those that stand out,” adds Switzer. “It’s not just one or two things; it’s part of their DNA. [The places] that have publicly declared their mission and set targets show they are serious. When I go to a property where every person who works there practices what they preach, it stands out.

“We also want to know if they’re willing to partner with us and be flexible if they don’t already have measures in place that we want to see. Ultimately, we want the whole event to lean into sustainability — so location does make a difference.”

“When” is it the best time to go?

Perhaps no other location in the U.S. has had to grapple with environmental concerns and a focus on sustainability more than the island-state of Hawaii. As we all witnessed during the devastating fires that swept through the town of Lahaina and Upcountry Maui last August, it was impossible not to track the environmental impact. But it’s equally important to consider the sustainability of the people — who are also part of the local environment — and how important it is to them that planners keep them on their radar. In other words, there’s no better time than now to consider planning an event on the island of Maui.

“In terms of sustainability, consider that we’re smaller than more populated places like Honolulu/Waikiki, so we have a smaller footprint in terms of visitor count, aircraft arrivals and departures, and rental car fleets,” explains Sam Spurrier, director of sales and marketing at the Westin Maui Resort and Spa, Ka’anapali. The design of the property intentionally includes hardy native plants and several species of ferns to create a natural, sustainable garden. The resort also coordinates beach cleanups and uses discarded pillowcases in place of plastic trash bags, which are washed and reused.

“We’re TripAdvisor ‘Green Leader’ certified,” says Spurrier, “which validates our adherence to following sustainable practices such as efficient water and energy use, sensitive waste management, and purchasing from responsible vendors.”

When the County of Maui banned the use of sunscreens that were detrimental to the health of the reef systems, the property partnered with Project Reef, a local sunscreen company to provide mineral-based sunscreens.

If an organizer is looking to add a teambuilding component to their itinerary, the state of Hawaii has a plethora of options designed to support their sustainability strategy. Lynn Whitehead, vice president of global MCI sales and marketing, explains that the Events Industry Council (EIC) has created a “best practices and standards around sustainability” that planners can access and use as a resource.

“Explore what green practices are part of a venue’s business strategy that your program can tap into,” says Whitehead. “Many of these are free of charge or available at a low cost.” For instance, the Malama Hawai’i program offers activities that directly benefit the environment, such as clearing away debris from forested lands or eradicating invasive species, and can include an educational walk through the tropical landscape. These types of activities can easily be transformed into teambuilding endeavors that give attendees a chance to experience the local landscape, firmly cementing the “where” part of the sustainability picture.

“What” are some particulars to pay attention to?

It might be redundant to mention things like the use of energy-efficient lighting, recycling and composting, using electronic versus printed signage or steering away from handing out swag that nobody really needs. But, what about considerations like transportation?

For instance, does the venue offer shuttle service, and if so, is it a hybrid or electric vehicle? Is there a practical way to utilize public transportation? Can you encourage walking, biking or carpooling, or is there an opportunity to select a walkable city to cut down on the need for fossil-fuel vehicles?

Another aspect to consider is the transportation mode each attendee will use to get to the host city. With airline industry goals of reaching “Net Zero” carbon emissions by 2050, the race is on to reach that mandate.

When asked what would be different this year at the Singapore Airshow in February, Leck Chet Lam, managing director of the events’ business Experia, responded, “Sustainability, sustainability, sustainability.” But with plant-based fuels, such as sustainable aviation fuel, costing upwards of five-times the amount of traditional, there’s a deep divide on how to achieve net-zero and continue to keep airfare costs within reach of the average flyer.

Jody Brandes, HMCC, CMM, and CMP-Fellow, is associate director, internal meetings and strategy at Gilead Sciences in Foster City, CA, and serves on the board of the Society for Sustainable Events. When asked about her focus as it relates to getting attendees to an event, Brandes responds, “Whenever possible, we select venues that are close to the majority of our attendees. However, we no longer provide airport transportation [to the venue] because we’ve found that people are impatient and prefer the flexibility of rideshare apps. Since our attendees prefer that option, we’re saving costs and decreasing our carbon output as we’re not running empty shuttles to-and-from the venue.”

When planning events for Maritz, Switzer is equally focused on transportation from an attendee standpoint. “It can be a huge factor when determining where we want to host an event,” she says. “For instance, if I look at my attendee list and 90% are from the East Coast, I’ll prioritize finding a venue that’s close to them.”

Technology is a frequently overlooked aspect of sustainability, but whether it’s reducing paper waste by leaning into electronic means of communication, such as an app specifically for the event, planning hybrid or totally virtual events to reduce a meeting’s carbon footprint or making sure that energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems are in place, it all adds up.

Generating data about sustainability performance is key to understanding how successful your choices have been. Another aspect to consider is how to evaluate your success rate. Some key performance indicators might include tracking CO2 emission levels, overall energy consumption, water usage, waste reduction, compliance with established sustainability standards, social impact or transportation reduction.

“Why” be concerned with sustainability?

We can all agree that Earth is the only home we’ve got, so it’s important to keep that in mind when considering how impactful an event is going to be ecologically and environmentally. Notes Switzer, “It starts with education and taking little steps, which turn into big steps, and before you know it, you’re running. Look at your event and do the easy things first, such as eliminating plastic wherever possible or having recycling bins available. Then, pick the next thing that aligns with your goals and implement that. And be sure to have conversations with your partners and vendors so they’re aware of your sustainability goals.”

Ali Collins, director of meeting planning at Goldman Management in Tampa, FL, suggests that when you conduct site inspections, ask what the property is doing to make a difference onsite as well as in their community. And include your sponsors.

“I did a meeting in Phoenix and had a sponsor for a refillable water bottle station that drove traffic to their booth because they had the only one in a room of 30 exhibitors,” says Collins.

When a hotel partners with a worldwide nonprofit, it has a global impact. Collins discovered this firsthand when working with a hotel that partners with Clean the World, an organization that collects and redistributes lightly used soaps and toiletries. “It goes a long way towards the ‘Reduce, Reuse and Recycle’ philosophy, but it also provides for people in need or hit by disaster, and shows me the hotel is looking for additional ways to improve our world. When a hotel cares about making the world a better place, they care about the people that work for them, which in turn creates happiness and better overall service.” C&IT

Ricky Brown is the founder and president of Speak Life Inc., as well as the author of “The Five Hazardous Attitudes: Ways to Win the War Within.” Ricky’s book and proprietary framework is impacting corporate America in the area of leadership development. He has over 20 years of leadership, as well as ministry experience. Ricky is available for keynotes, seminars and leadership development workshops. Go to architectyourattitude.com for more information. Find his new book on Amazon.

Have you ever heard the phrase “your attitude determines your altitude”? This phrase implies that if you have the right attitude, there is nothing that can stop you from achieving your goals. We often hear about the attitudes that bring success — tenacity, agility, resilience, etc., but how many of us are self-aware enough to recognize the attitudes that can derail our lives?

An attitude is defined as a proclivity to behave or act a certain way in response to a given situation. In other words, an attitude is more than just how we emote, it’s how we respond. Why is this important? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has identified Five Hazardous Attitudes that every pilot must learn before becoming a licensed pilot. The majority of plane crashes have been found to have something in common, one or more of the five hazardous attitudes were partly to blame. If a hazardous attitude can crash an airplane, then it’s only logical to think that a hazardous attitude can crash a business, a career or a relationship. “The Five Hazardous Attitudes: Ways to Win the War Within” contains five compelling fables that not only illustrate the attitudes but provide clear practical steps to overcome them. Leadership can be as perilous as flying through turbulent skies. This is especially important in careers that require swift decisions with a great degree of skill and precision, such as police officers and physicians. Just like pilots, leaders face attitudes that can derail their success.

The Five Hazardous Attitudes are as follows:

Anti-Authority

Anti-Authority is the Hazardous Attitude found in people who don’t like anyone telling them what to do. They tend to view rules as silly, unnecessary or overkill. Can you imagine a world where no one followed the rules, and everyone thought they were above authority? There would be utter chaos! There is something dangerous that happens with people who have an anti-authority attitude. When they ignore the rules and nothing bad happens, the attitude grows bigger and stronger than before.

The antidote to this type of attitude is to recognize that rules are in place for a reason, and they are usually right. Of course, there are some occasions where it is appropriate and necessary to question the rules. We are all humans, and it is important to check for understanding and verify instructions that can be deemed as harmful. However, the posture of assuming one is above the rules is one that can lead to disaster. Who wants to be in the car with a driver that ignores the traffic signals or working for a CEO that believes they are above tax laws?

Invulnerability

Invulnerability is the Hazardous Attitude that causes people to believe that consequences happen to others, but not to them.

The antidote to this attitude is to recognize that consequences can and do happen to you.

Macho

Macho is an attitude that is found in people who constantly feel the need to prove themselves. They often think they are better or more skilled than everyone else and they desire to live in the hall of fame of “one-ups.” Their mantra is “hold my beer.” They often see the risk they are taking as worth it, while everyone around them sees the risk as foolish. Macho is the attitude of a person with an over-inflated sense of self-ability.

The antidote to this attitude is to recognize that taking unnecessary risks is foolish. Think about what you stand to lose, not just what can be gained in that moment.

Impulsivity

Impulsivity is the attitude of people who feel the need to do something — anything — immediately. They don’t think first before acting and generally do the first thing that comes to mind without weighing the consequences or taking the time to select the best choice. Impulsive individuals tend to see people as speed bumps and not as partners. Anyone not on board with their latest stroke of genius is viewed as an enemy. This is especially harmful because the people around them are usually their only saving grace to get them to pause, think and behave rationally.

The antidote to this attitude is to remember to slow down and think first before acting. Weigh the potential consequences of your decision and take a pause to consider your options, even in time-pressured situations.

Resignation

People who have adopted an attitude of resignation do not see a path forward within themselves to change a given set of circumstances. They figure, “what’s the use?” They see themselves as victims of their circumstances and do not have the resilience to belief that what they do matters.

The antidote to this attitude is to recognize that they can make a difference.

The five hazardous attitudes — Anti-Authority, Invulnerability, Macho, Impulsivity and Resignation — can undermine decision-making, damage relationships and prevent progress. The benefit of engaging this framework in group settings yields lasting results. C&IT

John Tschohl is the founder and president of the Service Quality Institute — the global leader in customer service — with operations in more than 40 countries. He is considered one of the world’s foremost authorities on all aspects of customer service and has written several training programs, including “Speed,” which is also available in Spanish, Greek, Russian and Chinese. His monthly strategic newsletter is available online at no charge at customer-service.com. He can also be reached on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

Speed is one of the most strategic elements a company can use to attract and retain customers and to drive their revenues. What do I mean when I talk about speed?

Speed is dramatically reducing the amount of time needed to complete a task by altering factors such as empowerment, the mindset of employees, and organizational policies and systems.

Lack of empowerment is the major barrier to speed. It’s not just a speed bump on the road; it’s a 20-car pileup positioned directly in your path. Empowerment allows employees to make quick decisions that benefit customers — internal and external — without having to get permission from someone higher up the corporate ladder. It’s critical that you eliminate policies that prevent empowerment.

Another barrier to speed is the mindset of employees, which for most of them is set on one speed: slow. You must create a different mindset — a willingness to actively look for ways to perform quickly. If it normally takes five days to complete a task, do it in five hours.

The speed technique involves several steps. Organize what you need and evaluate how much time you will need to complete the project. Prioritize by breaking the project down into a series of smaller tasks that will allow you to manage your time and to focus on the details while understanding the “big picture.” Don’t procrastinate. Manage your time in a way that factors in barriers and allows for dealing with problems.

It’s imperative, however, that you don’t sacrifice quality while pursuing speed. If you have to go back and correct mistakes, you have slowed down the entire process.

CEOs are also often barriers to speed. The only thing that motivates them is money. What they fail to realize is how dramatically speed — combined with extraordinary customer service — can impact sales and profits. Amazon is the definition of speed and service. It has more than 1.6 million employees, and in 2023, had net sales of $574.8 billion, an increase of $60.8 billion from 2021.

Apple, the Mayo Clinic and Costco are three more great examples of companies realizing the rewards of combining customer service and speed. Apple profits $100 billion every year because of its speed and service. When I have a problem or need advice on one of my Apple products, I don’t need to drive to the store and wait in line. I simply call Apple, explain what I need, and an employee solves the problem in minutes.

The Mayo Clinic provides a better customer experience than any other healthcare organization in the world. Thanks to its focus on speed, quality and customer service, it had $17.9 billion in revenues last year. It also includes a human element; you can call the clinic and a live person will answer the phone on the first ring 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Costco has never lost sight of its focus on the customer experience. Its fiscal year sales ending September 1 of this year were $249.6 billion, an increase of $11.9 billion over last year. Costco has incredible quality, prices and speed, with two people at each checkout counter.

Speed can generate incredible growth and dramatically increase sales and profits. In the words of race car driver Mario Andretti: “If everything seems under control, you’re just not going fast enough.”

Shift into high gear and give your customers more than they ask for — and faster than they ask for it. C&IT

Professional Counselor Associate Ryan Joseph Kopyar, LMHCA, RCC, CPT & CSN is an emotional intelligence and mental health expert and international keynote speaker. Kopyar is also author of  “Unlock The Power of Your Mind: How to Change Your Life by Changing Your Thoughts” and “Big Boys Do Cry: A Man’s Guide to Navigating Emotions and Showing Up More Vulnerable in Relationships.” Connect with Kopyar online at ryankopyarholistichealing.com. 

What’s in a word? From reports about tech behemoths like Microsoft, Apple and Google to Hollywood A-List ‘it girl’ Zendaya to geo-political musings, the term “Frenemies” is being increasingly evoked to titillate minds and to spur curiosity.

The term “frenemy” refers to a person or entity who acts as both a friend and an enemy, often displaying contradictory behaviors of friendship, passive aggressiveness or even hostility. This term typifies a complex relationship characterized by a mix of camaraderie and competition, trust and distrust, or cooperation and conflict. While a frenemy may appear friendly on the surface, they also harbor underlying animosity or engage in ways that undermine trust and goodwill.

In many ways, situations with “frenemies” can help us recognize our best traits. Despite sounding counterintuitive, by reading between the lines, we can identify what triggers our “frenemy.” It could be the way we dress, our interactions with colleagues, or our punctuality and meeting deadlines. Essentially, our success points or unique qualities are what trigger our frenemy.

“Frenemies” in the workplace or in your personal and social life are often individuals triggered by some aspect of you; it’s typically something they see in you that they wish they had in themselves. They find themselves in a “tug of war” between wanting to be your friend because they admire that aspect of you, while also being your enemy due to jealousy or resentment over the fact that you embody what they wish they could.

The best way to handle such situations is to first be aware of what’s happening. Next, approach the “frenemy” with empathy, having a vulnerable and non-accusatory conversation. To address the issue, acknowledge your frenemy positively, express curiosity about any threat or discomfort they may feel, and encourage an open dialogue. An effective method is the “ice cream sandwich approach,” where you lead with something positive, address the issue directly, and end with something positive.

For example: “Hey, Jane, I appreciate your acknowledgment for submitting that project ahead of the deadline in the meeting earlier. I could be off, but I sensed some discomfort on your part. I wanted to ask you privately about your thoughts, feelings and emotions on this.” After hearing their response, respond back with gratitude: “Thank you for sharing your feedback. If it’s okay, I’d like more open dialogue in the future. I’m open to improving, and I’d appreciate your help. If there’s any way I can support you, I’m here for that too.”

These conversations, while vulnerable and empathetic, can still be direct and firm. They provide clarity for both parties on boundaries, hopes and expectations, while at the same time fostering a healthy, respectful work relationship.

There is another very beautiful and growth-promoting outcome that is possible from directly addressing a “frenemy.” This can be growth promoting for you and your “frenemy.” If your “frenemy” was open to your vulnerability and got the sense that you truly cared about them — at least enough to address their behavior and bring about a level of peace and alignment — there is the possibility for true friendship. It takes an incredible level of both humility and courage to not only advocate for yourself, but also extend to your transgressor both an olive branch of peace and also offering them a hand up. Remember, your “frenemy” is your frenemy because there is something that they admire about you. If you take the time to teach them how to cultivate within themselves what it is that they admire and are jealous of you for, that means you have just made a significantly positive impact in their life. By doing this you have helped your “frenemy” grow in an area that is of the utmost importance to them.  That is selfless, compassionate, leadership and influence. These characteristics and abilities go a long way in the business world for positioning yourself as a leader within your company. This can then open up the doors for you relative to promotions and other company advancements.  One of the most challenging tasks to accomplish in business is to bring people together in unison to accomplish a shared mission or vision. If you can do this with a “frenemy” who is least likely to give you total buy-in, then that means that you can lift up and unite an individual or any group within your organization.

As is the case in all relationships, there is no hard and fast rule, and no outcome to be guaranteed. Not all people want to be helped. There is a chance that even your most compassionate and caring attempt at helping a “frenemy” may not be received with open arms.  Moreover, it is not our responsibility to emotionally regulate someone else or to be their counselor or therapist.  However, here’s what I can say: having conversations like this could help the “frenemy” turn into a true friend, but at the very least, it is an opportunity to practice conversing about and setting healthy boundaries.  Boundary conversations are some of the most challenging yet rewarding conversations that we can have. Finally, being the bigger person and genuinely attempting to reach out to help your “frenemy” can be witnessed by your fellow colleagues and garner a tremendous amount of respect based on the emotional maturity it takes to confront and work towards resolving a situation. C&IT

Julie Bee is the author of “Burned: How Business Owners Can Overcome Burnout and Fuel Success.” A business owner burnout strategist, Bee has been dubbed the “small business fixer” by her clients and peers. With over 15 years in the entrepreneurial field, she has solidified her reputation as a dynamic consultant, a riveting speaker and a leader who sheds light on the darker side of business ownership. Having been celebrated by Fast Company and Forbes, her insights are in high demand across the industry. For more information, please visit thejuliebee.com. 

Entrepreneurs don’t have easy lives. The endless string of 60-hour work weeks can take its toll. But if you’re expecting that long-awaited summer vacation to “fix” your exhaustion and lagging motivation, think again. You might come back from that week of ocean breezes or mountain air dreading the screech of the alarm clock more than ever.

A recent nationwide study found that 41% of employed Americans report experiencing burnout after taking time off — and entrepreneurs are particularly at risk.

Expecting a vacation to stave off burnout isn’t realistic because time away doesn’t solve the problems that were causing your stress. Not only will those problems be waiting when you return, there may also be a whole new set of fires for you to put out.

You didn’t become this overwhelmed and disengaged in a week, so a week-long break is unlikely to be a cure-all. Chances are you’ve been ignoring your stress, exceeding your bandwidth and prioritizing your business over your own needs for quite a while.

To be clear, I’m pro vacation — and yes, self-care can temporarily relieve some of the pressure. But if you don’t want burnout to take a serious toll, you need to get to the root of what’s causing it. I speak from 15 years of experience as an entrepreneur — and from the other side of my own business owner burnout. My book “Burned” acknowledges that periodic stress and even burnout are givens when you own a business. The book provides tactical advice on how to make space for addressing burnout, fix any problems it has caused and leverage its lessons while running a company.

That said, here are some things to know about burnout (post-vacation or otherwise):

If there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, it’s stress. If you’re stuck in the dark, it’s burnout. How can a spread-thin entrepreneur distinguish stress from burnout? While stress can feel acute, it’s temporary. There’s often a deadline to look forward to. With burnout, you have little or no energy left to move forward. The passion you once felt for your business has turned to dread. When faced with a challenge, you may feel “stuck” or just plain indifferent. Your responsibilities feel like a burden — and you can’t see an end in sight to being in this state.

Know your red flags: You’re sleep deprived, snappy and buying stock in dry shampoo. Most of us don’t go from “fine” to “running on fumes” overnight. There are usually red flags that indicate you’re headed toward burnout: actions, habits, or behaviors that indicate you’re off-balance, stressed and working unsustainably. For instance:

• You’re having trouble sleeping (or sleeping too much).
• Your interactions with others have become more contentious.
• You’ve started to socially withdraw.
• You’re finding it difficult to focus, make decisions and/or come up with new ideas.
• Your self-care (e.g., grooming, nutrition, exercise, etc.) has slipped.
• You’re leaning harder into a coping mechanism (e.g., alcohol, medication, etc.).
• You’re clinging to the belief that if you can “just get through” a particular deadline or challenge, everything will magically get better.

Be alert for trigger warnings: Scour your schedule for stressors. Triggers differ from red flags because they are external to you. They tend to be other people, places or situations that cause you immediate stress, and can thus hasten burnout. The more you’re exposed to (or even think about) your triggers, the more your dread, anxiety and sense of feeling overwhelmed ratchet up.

Burnout triggers are often seemingly small things like hearing the phone ring or seeing a difficult client’s name appear in your inbox. They don’t even have to be work-related: A spouse’s bad mood or the sight of your overgrown lawn can also cause your stress to spike. It’s important to identify burnout triggers so you can eliminate, limit or deal with them.

Your triggers might be extra stressful if you’re returning to your business after a vacation. Instead of dealing with your triggers from a Zen-like mindset you cultivated while relaxing poolside, it’s likely they’ll seem even more intrusive as you frantically play catch-up.

Master your new mantra: “NO!” (for now). If you’re close to (or in the throes of) burnout, you must make space to deal with it. My top tip is to temporarily say “no” to new. Just for a while, stop chasing new opportunities, developing new ideas, and forging new partnerships. Think of this as saying “no for now”— not necessarily “no forever.” Maybe you do have a fantastic idea that is right in your business’s sweet spot — but first you have to make space to properly develop and execute it.

Run the “why” test to pinpoint what’s causing your symptoms. First, think of something that’s causing you stress (burnout triggers are a good place to start) and list three thoughts or feelings you have about that stressor. Now ask “why” — three times — about each thought or feeling and answer as honestly as you can. Here’s an example with the feeling “frustrated:”

• Why am I frustrated? Because I have zero enjoyment in my business.
• Why do I have zero enjoyment at work? I’m always putting out fires and never get to the important work.
• Why am I always putting out fires? Because someone has to do it (aha!), and, if I’m honest, I don’t manage my time well (aha again!). I prioritize putting out fires over doing important work, because in the moment, they feel more urgent.

As you apply this exercise to various stressors and your thoughts and feelings about them, you’ll probably see a few themes pop up. Maybe you feel like you must solve all problems yourself, or maybe you lack firm boundaries. These themes are probably major causes of your burnout.

Now that you’ve diagnosed your burnout, treat it! In the “frustration” example above, you might carve out more time for important work by determining which daily tasks you can eliminate, delegate or save until later. If the pile of minor emergencies that cropped up while you were on vacation tipped you over the edge from “stress” to “burnout,” you need to create a plan for more effectively covering your absence next time.

Don’t do this alone. You need a team to support and advise you: key employees, business partners, loved ones … even a therapist! When you’re in a state of burnout, it’s hard to see things clearly. Outsiders may see something you haven’t noticed and offer a fresh perspective.

Then, focus on your personal recovery. Being burned out means that you’ve been depleted faster than you could replenish. Now that you’re on the other side of the urgent fire, you can focus on the personal toll it has taken. To start, identify an action or activity that will comfort and replenish you that can be accomplished in the next 30 days. For example, you might go on a hike, book an appointment with your therapist or splurge on a weighted blanket to help you sleep more soundly. These types of self-care actions won’t cure your burnout. But you need to capture a few quick wins so you’ll have the attitude and energy to make bigger, more impactful changes that will help mitigate future burnout.

Put a prevention plan in place. Create thoughtful guardrails designed to keep you from traveling too far into your red-flag danger zone. One anti-burnout strategy I recommend is to define your ideal workweek.

For instance, on what days of the week will you work and at what times? When will you work on big-picture, visionary tasks? When will you invest time with your staff? When will you do tasks you do not enjoy? How often will you network? How will you handle personal calls, texts, etc., while you’re working? Answering questions like these can help you set boundaries, prioritize effectively, work efficiently and communicate clearly — all of which will give you more bandwidth to deal with stress and setbacks.

Make peace with the fact that burnout is like a bad penny — albeit one you can still spend wisely! Burnout often isn’t a one-and-done event — you’ll probably encounter it several times throughout your career. Circumstances can appear out of nowhere that will take a wrecking ball to even the best-laid prevention plan. But not all burnout has to fully deplete you, set your business back or impact your health.

If you’ve just returned from vacation and are feeling charred to a crisp (and not just from sunburn), attempting to power through your exhaustion and disengagement won’t be sustainable. The good news is that if you do the hard work of addressing your burnout now, you stand a much greater chance of actually enjoying your next vacation … and of climbing smoothly back into the saddle once it’s over. C&IT

Fort Worth’s Stockyards National Historic District brings in about 3 million visitors a year.

The Lone Star State continues to be a top pick for meeting and event planners. Known for its Western traditions, hospitality and warm climate, the state continues to draw attendees and events from around the world. Here, they can find everything from world-class restaurants to great barbecue as well as a wide range of amenities and venues.

Dallas: Big D Has Plenty to See

Dallas might be known for its iconic skyline, cowboy culture, Tex-Mex cuisine and sports teams, but it has a bit of everything, from its thriving business community to its vibrant art scene. The city also has more than 200 golf courses and is home to seven professional sports teams. Considered a Cvent Top 4 meeting destination, Dallas offers planners more than 35,000 hotel rooms and two international airports to help bring in attendees from all over the world. Earlier this year, the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center broke ground on a $3.7 billion project to completely revamp the facility, which has more than 1 million sf of exhibit space. It is connected via skybridge to the Omni Dallas Hotel, which boasts more than 1,000 rooms. Also nearby is the Hyatt Regency Dallas, with 160,000 sf of event space. It is connected to Reunion Tower, offering 360 degree views of the city. The Ritz Carlton Dallas just underwent a $22 million renovation last year and has almost 24,000 sf total event space.

Fort Worth: Experience Texas Tradition

In Fort Worth, the Old West comes to life as the world’s only twice-daily cattle drive takes place down East Exchange Avenue in the Stockyards National Historic District, which brings in about 3 million visitors a year. Mule Alley is a mixed-use development filled with shops, restaurants and live entertainment venues brimming with Texas tradition. Access to the city is easy with the TEX Rail, a 27-mile commuter rail from the airport. The Sheraton Fort Worth Downtown was recently renovated with a $50 million transformation, one of the largest hotel renovations in the region. It features over 400 rooms, as well as approximately 30,000 sf of new meeting and conference spaces across the street from the convention center. The Omni Fort Worth Hotel is also nearby, which features almost 68,000 sf of space for meetings and events. The Bowie House, located in the cultural district, has been named one of the “World’s Greatest Places of 2024” by Time Magazine. The hotel opened at the end of last year and offers 10,000 sf of space in seven distinct venues. For those seeking a larger venue, Dickies Arena has a wide range of options within its 300,000 sf of space, including a 14,000-seat arena, a 209,088 sf exhibition space perfect for concerts and other outdoor events, as well as additional meeting and event space.

Austin: State Capital Hits the Right Notes

Austin is buzzing with entertainment. Known as the Live Music Capital of the World®, the city has hundreds of venues showcasing every genre of music with shows seven days a week. It also boasts an award-winning food scene. Planners will discover world-class accommodations with more than 12,000 hotel rooms near the Austin Convention Center, which is slated to undergo a $1.6 billion transformation in 2025. Following closure, demolition and construction, the larger structure will open in 2029. The Renaissance Austin Hotel was renovated a few years ago and has 492 rooms and 81,000 sf of meeting and event space. Its Lawn at Glass Oaks space includes a 3,600 sf glass event space and a beautifully landscaped lawn for events. Another venue for large events is the Travis County Exposition Center, which features 275,000 sf with several unique venues, including their banquet hall, show barn, skyline club and Luedecke Arena.

Experience true Texan culture with the Anita Martinez Ballet Folklorico in the Dallas Arts District. Courtesy Photo

San Antonio: Down By the River

San Antonio is a great place for planners seeking a multicultural locale with plenty to explore. Its Riverwalk is the No. 1 attraction in the state with 15 miles of restaurants, shops, world class museums, theaters and more. Just steps from this cultural scene is the historic Alamo, which is undergoing a $500 million revitalization project dubbed the Alamo Plan. The city is also known for its theme parks, including Sea World and Six Flags, as well as Morgan’s Wonderland, known for its accessibility for those with disabilities. Attendees will find plenty of places to stay with more than 45,000 guest rooms available. For large meetings, The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa might be a good fit. Located near downtown in Texas Hill Country, it offers 268,000 sf for events.

El Paso: Border Culture

El Paso is where Texas, New Mexico and Mexico meet. People can walk across the Paso del International Bridge to visit Juarez, Mexico, but there is plenty to do right within the city limits. They can explore local parks like Franklin Mountains State Park — the largest state park in an urban setting — visit the local zoo, tour historic sites, do some shopping before sitting down to a nice Tex-Mex meal, or participate in a Tequila tasting. The city has experienced unprecedented growth in recent years with more than $500 million worth of revitalization projects underway including the convention center, which in recent years underwent more than $3 million in restorations. The city also built a new Mexican American Cultural Center set to open this fall. El Paso offers more than 10,000 hotel rooms, including the 300-room Hotel Paso del Norte, which underwent a $100 million renovation a few years ago and is now part of the Marriott Autograph Collection. It has 32,000 sf of meeting and event space.

Laredo: Explore Along the Rio Grande

Head to Laredo to experience a real blend of cultures, culinary influences and languages. Attendees can enjoy nature or explore the local history in between meetings and events in this small city originally founded in 1755 on the banks of the Rio Grande. Back in the spring, the city held a meeting to discuss the plans for a new convention center, estimated to cost more than $12 million. Laredo is also home to the Sames Auto Arena, a 178,000-sf facility that offers 32,000 sf of contiguous open floor space and   can seat 10,000 people. There are several other options for events, including the Uni-Trade Stadium, with a capacity of 6,000. It can also convert its club level into a space for events for up to 450 people. Planners will find more than 4,000 hotel rooms to accommodate attendees in Laredo. C&IT

Meetings Made Easy held a client appreciation and education trip at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar in the Bahamas. Courtesy of Sarah Buchbinder

Creating a meeting or incentive that delivers on the desires of attendees is no easy feat. Given shortened attention spans, today’s endless array of home entertainment options, the immediacy with which people can get what they want and the ease of global travel, many corporate professionals can lose interest in a session or an activity quickly and find themselves thinking, “Been there, done that; I need more.”

However, some attendees’ wishes have become commonplace, allowing professional meeting planners to expect them and plan accordingly. Among those are helpful and engaging education, good entertainment and the craving for free time, which gives attendees the space to absorb content, network and stay on top of other work, as well as the chance to venture outdoors and explore a destination.

“Attendees want to feel that the time spent away from their families, office and their outside lives in general was worthwhile,” notes Sarah Buchbinder, regional director, meeting broker division at Meetings Made Easy. “Attention and innovation from the meeting hosts can make them feel as if their attendance was valued.”

Good Education

That starts with the education sessions. Attendees, of course, expect to be serious and learn, but they also want the information to be useful and for it to be presented in compelling ways. Simply having a speaker at the front of the room deliver a PowerPoint presentation no longer cuts it. Not only will such a format bore attendees, it won’t make them remember the conference in a positive way.

“If you want people to engage more around learning and get more value out of the content, it comes down to using more informal, participative learning formats and shifting away from a sage speaking to an audience,” declares John Nawn, co-founder/chief strategist, The Event Strategy Network.

“There could be a subject matter expert who starts a conversation and then facilitates a discussion among a group,” he says, “or you might have peers leading one another. There could be ‘ask me anything’ sessions, where you put a thought leader in a seat and attendees pepper that person with questions. Or I love when people put something on their badge that says, ‘Ask me about XYZ.’”

Such education can have a lasting impact, Nawn states. “Informal learning opportunities are where people retain a lot more information and transfer more of that information back to their jobs, which results in improved performance for both the individual and the organization.”

For some groups, he notes, education design should be outsourced to learning professionals, just as planners hire audiovisual professionals, caterers and the like. But for others, creating engaging education means moving away from traditional models.

“Attendees want a varied agenda,” states Buchbinder. “If an entire meeting of 200 people has all their events onsite, all together, it can become monotonous.”

Instead, she suggests, “Attendees want more interactive sessions with actionable takeaways. Many companies are incorporating what’s called open sessions, where attendees will submit topics they want to discuss and breakouts or workshops will be built around those ideas onsite, in real time.”

But education extends beyond the meeting rooms. Meeting attendees, and of course incentive winners, want time to connect with others, explore an event’s destination and even to check in with the home office.

“While attendees realize the value of keynotes and sessions, they want to have their free time onsite to be able to meet with their colleagues,” says Buchbinder. “With more companies embracing remote work, meetings are sometimes employees’ only opportunity to get face time in with associates, leadership, partners or their clients.”

Additionally, Buchbinder notes, if attendees have time to explore a meeting’s destination, it helps make the event memorable. “A key memory from any meeting will be an outing where people who don’t know each other get out and interact in a fun and informal way. For a company’s recent client appreciation and networking event in the Bahamas, attendees chose from over four event options on the first day, including cigar rolling, chocolate making or a private cabana by the pool. The next day, they could either take a relaxing catamaran cruise or a high speed boat to swim with pigs.”

Attendees also must stay mindful of their jobs back at the office, so building in some free time actually can make content more impactful, Buchbinder explains. “Work doesn’t stop while attendees are onsite, so having time to check-in with their team or to take a quick run through their inbox can allow them to focus more during sessions, knowing nothing is falling through the cracks while they are away.”

That’s Entertainment

Another component of events that can make them memorable is entertainment. There are numerous ways to interpret that need, and it should be something that most of the group will like, but it doesn’t necessarily have to blow out a meeting or incentive program’s budget.

“Attendees want to be entertained by celebrity talent and share their experiences on social media,” says Ira Ozer, president of Innovation Meetings. “We booked Skip Martin, former lead singer of Kool & The Gang, to perform at SITE [Society of Incentive Travel Executives] NITE North America, the incentive travel industry’s annual networking and fundraising party on the first night of IMEX America last fall at the Palms Resort in Las Vegas.”

The event was a success, Ozer states. “There were over 1,200 attendees who sang along, danced and recorded videos. People love meeting celebrities and sharing their encounters so they feel involved in the event and receive reinforcement from ‘likes.’”

Enjoyable entertainment can boost attendees’ overall sentiment about an event, making it not just a lasting memory but also the means to better post-meeting or incentive-trip evaluations.

“My attendee feedback has been more positive when I incorporate a live form of entertainment for at least one evening,” says Buchbinder, “like music or a casino night with prizes for people who win the most chips. After all, what pairs better with a glass of wine over dinner than live music?”

However, Nawn cautions against breaking the bank to entertain attendees at the expense of providing content that’s relevant to — and of use for — the audience.

“Don’t spend more on entertainment than on delivering a meeting’s value proposition,” he advises. “If a meeting is a salient experience, the entertainment is gravy. I have clients that spend a lot on entertainment and they think they have to put on a show for everyone. But they’re not necessarily delivering a lot of value, as far as individual and organizational outcomes. That is a missed opportunity.”

Showcasing just how planners can help sponsors meet attendee desires without busting their budgets, Nawn recently made one executive aware that a party isn’t always needed.

“I had a client recently who alternates where they meet. Last year’s meeting was in Atlanta and the company threw a party at great expense. We were there to audit that event and people loved it, they said it was a great party and the CEO was like, ‘Oh great, now I have to do this every year.’”

He explains, “But next year the meeting is in Las Vegas, and the destination essentially comes wrapped in a party. There are so many other things to do there that the host does not have to pay for, as attendees will take advantage of those activities. When we told the CEO that, he was like, ‘Oh, great, that saves us a quarter of a million dollars!”

Enjoying the Great Outdoors

Whether a meeting component being planned is an evening party, an education session or an off-site activity, having those programs outdoors — especially in picturesque or tropical destinations — whenever possible is a surefire way to please meeting attendees and incentive winners.

“Attendees want unique venues and outdoor activities, even at meetings in dense metropolitan areas like New York City,” asserts Ozer. “We held our client meeting last year for 80 attendees in Manhattan aboard a sailboat that took a two-hour sunset cruise of the New York Harbor. People loved sailing on the open water, past the Manhattan skyline, and seeing the Statue of Liberty up close while enjoying cocktails and a beautiful sunset. They raved about it to all their colleagues back at their offices.”

In fact, Ozer regularly advises clients to take it outside. “We always recommend leaving time for attendees to network and share conversations and we try to book venues with outdoor spaces, such as balconies and rooftops, for fresh air and light, which is conducive to recharging and staying happy during events.”

Arranging outdoor programming can be easier to do than it was in the past. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many hotels and other venues became more creative in using outdoor space since it was challenging to meet indoors. Most sites have remained capable of hosting large groups outside.

The pay-off for doing so is big, notes Buchbinder. “Getting people out of the hotel property is always very well received and will absolutely impact overall feedback on the meeting or event experience.”

Injecting Culture

In keeping with societal values of many groups today, it’s important for meetings and incentives to go to destinations that showcase different cultures.

Buchbinder agrees. “Diversity and inclusion is at the forefront of many corporations’ goals, so identifying locations that have more diverse cultures and ethnicities is critical these days,” she says, adding, “When we were in Miami recently we leaned into the Cuban vibe by sourcing a Cuban restaurant for our senior leadership dinner.”

Showcasing diversity requires intention, but the effort is worth the reward, says Ozer. “When we plan meetings, conferences and incentive programs in large cities, we make a point of having the attendees experience the diverse cultures, languages and cuisines of the destination.

“At a meeting we facilitated late last year, we brought attendees to the New York City borough of Queens, which features 91 distinct neighborhoods and has more diversity than any other small area in the United States. The group enjoyed dine-a-rounds at restaurants that served food from a variety of cuisines, including Greek, Chinese, German, Hungarian, Japanese, Georgian and more, all within a mile of one another.”

Innovation Meetings was able to tie the variety of the food into efforts being made at the company to promote diversity, equity and inclusion. “We wanted to give the attendees a sense of the diversity in a city like New York to help support their theme of being one global company and reinforcing their DEI initiatives,” Ozer says.

Ultimately, while it’s a daunting challenge, meeting planners need to make their events appealing on numerous fronts, says Buchbinder. “People today expect not just meetings but experiences and the more unique the environment or format of the event, the happier my attendees are. Meetings and meals alone just don’t have enough appeal anymore to make people sign up for a meeting.”

And she’s seen proof of that theory. “The post-event feedback is significantly more positive when we have incorporated a combination of entertainment and activities at a destination with amenities like an onsite spa, pool, golf course and the like,” Buchbinder says. “Of course, this comes at a cost, but if the goal is to get people to a meeting, planning this way should provide the ROI needed.” C&IT

DepositPhotos.com

Predicting the future is like forecasting the weather. You think you know what’s going to happen — then it doesn’t.

There has been a great deal discussed in the past few years concerning the legal liability within the corporate meetings and events industry, usually in terms of a crisis or the likelihood of a worsening situation.

To what extent do corporate meeting and events need to prepare for potential legal issues when planning corporate gatherings? Despite risk-management practices that have reduced frivolous claims, corporate meeting planners continue to feel the effects of operating in a litigious society. That’s why it is vital that corporate planners learn to navigate the potential legal issues they may face.

This requires a proactive and systematic approach. Meeting planners should prioritize legal compliance, risk management and the protection of their and their stakeholders’ interests.

Corporate meeting planner Pat Schaumann, CMP, president of Schaumann Consulting Group, LLC, and HMCC and MMP Managing Director of MPI, works closely with fellow planners to understand the potential legal issues that can arise during the meeting planning and implementation process.

“Corporate meeting planners can encounter various legal issues when planning meetings and events. These issues can have significant consequences if not properly addressed.” Schaumann says.

Some of the biggest legal concerns that corporate meeting planners may face, along with examples of potential issues, include:

• Contractual disputes: A dispute arises with a venue or vendor over the terms and conditions of the contract, including the payment terms, performance obligations or cancellation policies.
• Liability and insurance: A participant is injured during an event, and the planner or the corporation at which they work may be held liable for inadequate safety measures. Insufficient insurance coverage could lead to financial strain.
• Intellectual property: Copyrighted material, such as images, music, videos or logos and trademarks that are used without authorization during a presentation or a corporate meeting may result in copyright infringement claims.
• Data privacy and security: When orchestrating corporate meetings or events, planners deal with a wealth of personal data information. Mishandling this attendee data or failing to comply with data protection laws can lead to significant fines and reputational damage.
• Accessibility compliance: Keeping accessibility at the forefront is key at any size meeting or event. Failing to provide reasonable accommodations for attendees with disabilities may lead to discrimination complaints under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Compliance with regulations and permits: Meeting planners could face issues if they host an event without the necessary permits or licenses. This can result in fines and legal action from local authorities.
• Force majeure and unexpected events: Understanding and including force majeure clauses in contracts with hotels, venues and vendors is vital to protect against legal implications that may result from natural disasters, pandemics or political unrest, all of which can disrupt planned events.
• Discrimination and harassment: Attendees or event staff may file claims of harassment or discrimination if these claims aren’t appropriately addressed.
• Improper licensing: In the areas of alcohol and food service, serving alcohol without proper licensing or responsibly handling alcohol-related incidents can result in legal issues.
• Sponsorship agreements: Breaches of contracts or disagreements with event sponsors can lead to legal disputes.
• Speaker agreements: Legal issues surrounding fees, content or contractual obligations may arise with keynote speakers.
• Employment and labor law: Labor disputes and wage-related issues may arise with event staff and independent contractors hired for a corporate event.

“To mitigate these potential legal challenges, corporate meeting planners should consult with legal counsel, carefully review contracts, obtain appropriate insurance coverage, stay informed about relevant laws and regulations and implement risk management strategies,” Schaumann says. “Being proactive and addressing these issues before they escalate is crucial for successful event planning and execution while minimizing legal risks.”

Be a Proactive Planner

Although the above list of potential legal issues that may arise during a corporate meeting or event may seem overwhelming, there are some simple steps that meeting planners can take to offset or avoid potential legal issues. These steps can not only protect the corporate planners, but also other entities involved in an event.

To offset or avoid potential legal issues when planning corporate meetings and events, Schaumann advises that corporate planners should take several proactive steps.

Some of these include:

• Consulting legal counsel: When planning an event or meeting, consult with an attorney who is experienced in corporate meetings and events as well as contract law. This legal expert can help planners navigate complex contracts, compliance issues and risk management strategies.
• Developing comprehensive contracts: It’s important to carefully review and negotiate contracts with venues, vendors, sponsors and speakers. Ensure that all terms and conditions are clear and protective of a company’s interests. And be sure to include force majeure clauses that address unforeseeable events.
• Including insurance coverage: Insurance coverage is a vital component of any meeting and event. This includes general liability insurance and event cancellation insurance. Be sure to verify that the coverage adequately protects against potential liabilities and disruptions.
• Ensuring data privacy compliance: Make sure data privacy regulations are being followed when handling attendee information. This includes implementing strong data security measures and obtaining explicit consent for data processing.
• Developing safety and security protocols: These protocols should include emergency response plans, crowd management and measures to address potential threats.
• Ensuring permits and licensing are in place: Ensure that all necessary permits, licenses and approvals are obtained for the event, including those related to food service, alcohol and public gatherings.
• Employing proper documentation: Keep detailed records of all communications, contracts, agreements and incident reports related to the event. These documents can be crucial if legal issues arise.
• Develop a risk management plan: This plan should identify potential risks and outline strategies to mitigate them. Conduct risk assessments regularly.

“By implementing these measures and working closely with legal counsel, corporate meeting planners can significantly reduce the likelihood of legal issues and protect themselves and all involved parties from potential liabilities,” Schaumann says. “Effective risk management and proactive planning are essential for successful event execution while minimizing legal risks.”

Vendors & Legal Concerns

In the area of corporate meeting and event planning, a myriad of vendors is often hired to provide everything from food and beverage to entertainment to security. As a result, various vendor-related legal issues can arise that planners need to be aware of.

“Contractual issues are among the most common legal problems with vendors,” Schaumann says. “Disputes can arise over contract terms, performance expectations, payment and more. It’s crucial to have clear, well-drafted contracts that specify all terms and conditions.”

In addition, vendors may fail to deliver goods or services as agreed upon in the contract. This could include subpar quality, late deliveries or inadequate staffing levels.

That’s why it’s important to establish performance expectations and remedies for non-performance in contracts.

“Vendors also may unexpectedly cancel their commitments or go out of business, leaving the corporate meeting planner in a difficult situation. Contracts should include cancellation policies and contingency plans for such situations,” Schaumann says. “And be sure that the vendors carry their own liability insurance to cover any accidents, damages or injuries that may occur in the course of their work. Be sure to verify that vendors have adequate insurance coverage and it may require them to name the planner as an additional insured.”

Along those same lines, vendors may use subcontractors or temporary staff who should be properly classified and paid in accordance with labor laws. “Meeting planners should ensure that vendors adhere to labor and employment regulations,” Schaumann says. “What’s more, vendors’ employees or representatives may interact with event participants and should adhere to anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies to prevent legal issues related to discrimination or harassment claims.”

Another issue that may arise is vendors using copyrighted materials or trademarks without proper authorization, potentially leading to intellectual property disputes. Schaumann says meeting planners should ensure that vendors have obtained the necessary permissions for any intellectual property they use.

“And because vendors may handle attendee data, any mishandling or data breaches can lead to legal liabilities. Ensure that vendors comply with data privacy regulations and have robust data security measures in place,” Schaumann says.

These days, environmental compliance and sustainability issues are top of mind for many corporate meeting planners and attendees. As such, some vendors may be involved in activities that impact the environment (e.g., waste disposal, energy use). Meeting planners should ensure that vendors comply with environmental regulations and have appropriate permits if needed.

Vendors may dispute payment, claim additional fees or invoice inaccurately. Corporate meeting planners should carefully track payments, reconcile invoices and document all financial transactions.

“Conduct due diligence when selecting vendors, including checking references and reviewing their track record. And clearly define expectations and responsibilities in contracts, including dispute resolution mechanisms,” Schaumann says. “Also be sure to maintain open lines of communication with vendors to address issues promptly and work with legal counsel to draft and review all vendor contracts, and ensure that all necessary permits and licenses are in place for vendors.”

Taking these precautions can help meeting planners minimize legal risks and ensure that their events run smoothly without significant legal disruptions.

“After the event, conduct a comprehensive post-event review to assess what went well and identify areas for improvement,” Schaumann says. “Use this feedback to enhance future risk management strategies.”

Continuous Evolution

The corporate meetings and events industry has evolved and changed in recent years and so too have the legal issues surrounding the industry. The landscape today is characterized by several significant changes compared to the past. As Schaumann explains, these changes are influenced by various factors, including advances in technology, the emergence of new regulations, and the evolving nature of the meetings and events themselves.

Schaumann points out that the most significant changes in recent years are the increased focus on data privacy and security. Regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) have placed strict requirements on how personal data is collected, processed and protected during corporate meetings and events.

“Meeting planners must now take data privacy seriously and implement stringent measures to comply with these laws,” Schaumann says.

In addition, accessibility has become a central concern in the legal environment of meetings and events for those attendees who have physical limitations including mobility, hearing and sight issues. Laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) require event organizers to ensure that their events are accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes providing accessible venues, accommodations and digital content.

“The COVID-19 pandemic also highlighted the importance of force majeure clauses and crisis management plans in event contracts,” Schaumann says. “Many events were canceled or rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances, and legal disputes arose regarding contract obligations. Going forward, event contracts will likely include more comprehensive force majeure provisions.”

Other evolving issues that meeting planners need to continually focus on within the meetings and events realm include:

• Intellectual property and copyright: The digital age has brought about complex issues related to these. The use of copyrighted materials (e.g., music, images, videos) in presentations, virtual events and livestreams has led to legal challenges. That’s why Schaumann says meeting planners must be vigilant about obtaining proper licenses and permissions.
• Liability and security: In light of recent acts of terrorism, event security and safety and health protocols, continue to be “top of mind” legal issues that meeting planners need to contend with. Event organizers face increased scrutiny and potential liability for the safety and security of attendees.
• Hybrid and virtual events: Of course, the rise in virtual and hybrid events has created some new legal issues, including those surrounding the use of digital platforms, online registration and virtual sponsorships. Because contracts for virtual events may differ slightly from traditional in-person events, it is important for meeting planners to stay abreast of these differences.

“As for the future, it’s likely that the legal environment surrounding meetings and events will continue to evolve. New laws and regulations may emerge, especially in response to emerging technologies and changing societal norms,” Schaumann says. “Meeting planners will need to stay informed, adapt to legal changes, and prioritize legal compliance to minimize the risk of litigation and legal challenges. Additionally, the willingness to adopt best practices in risk management, contract negotiation and dispute resolution will remain essential in navigating the evolving legal landscape of events.” C&IT

The Orange County Convention Center is known as “The Center of Hospitality.” Pictured: Breakfast is served at the Executive Client Advisory Committee event. Courtesy of Mark Tester

Orlando, historically known for its world-class theme parks, has recently emerged as a food lover’s paradise. The area is now home to an incredible array of culinary experiences and top-notch restaurants led by celebrity chefs. In fact, Orlando was named No. 1 on WalletHub’s recent “Best Foodie Cities in America” list, beating out 180 other cities that were graded on things like grocery cost, restaurant diversity and food trucks per capita.

This creates an excellent opportunity for meeting planners to take advantage of this culinary haven, providing attendees with unforgettable dining experiences that will leave a lasting impression.

“Orlando isn’t just a city, it’s a culinary journey waiting to be savored,” says Jill Garcia, president and owner of the Pittsburgh, PA-based The Hutton Group, who regularly plans corporate meetings there. “From its diverse array of international flavors to its inventive food scene, every dish tells a tale of taste and innovation, making it a true haven for food enthusiasts.”

Over the last decade, Jamie Chermak, senior sales development manager, events for Thermo Fisher Scientific, has been involved in incentive trips, group meetings and trade shows in Orlando. This year alone, she has already completed a global commercial meeting at the Hyatt Regency Orlando and did a large trade show a week later at the Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando.

“The pros of truly hosting in this city is the vast amount of entertainment and dining options,” Chermak says. “I have just been introduced to The Discovery Cove during my offsite meeting and I have since brought two groups there. I love the endless amount of options. The weather helps too.”

Her attendees like to explore the parks and absorb the positive vibes that come from other tourists that visit.

“Orlando is a very international venue in itself and you can basically find the best of the best kinds of ethnic foods to accommodate or try,” Chermak says.

Foodies Delight

Orlando’s culinary scene is ever-evolving, offering meeting planners a diverse array of dining options to suit every taste and occasion.

“By hosting events in this foodie town, planners can provide attendees with memorable dining experiences, enhancing the overall event and leaving guests eager to return,” Chermak says. “Whether it’s fine dining, casual bites or innovative cuisine, Orlando’s top restaurants, led by celebrity chefs, serve up unforgettable meals that impress any group.”

Here are some of the notable restaurants that she and other planners recommend giving a try:

Victoria & Albert’s: At the heart of Orlando’s food scene lies Victoria & Albert’s, a AAA Five Diamond Award restaurant located at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The restaurant offers an intimate, luxurious dining experience with Chef Kevin Chong at the helm. A multi-course tasting menu features the finest seasonal ingredients and impeccable presentation, promising a memorable evening for any meeting or event.

The Ravenous Pig: Known as one of the city’s premier gastropubs, The Ravenous Pig is a must-visit for meeting planners looking to impress guests with innovative American cuisine. Led by award-winning chefs Julie and James Petrakis, the restaurant’s menu is a delightful mix of locally sourced ingredients and classic dishes with a modern twist.

Norman’s: Located at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, Norman’s offers a refined, upscale dining experience under the direction of renowned Chef Norman Van Aken, a pioneer of New World cuisine. The menu features a fusion of Latin, Caribbean and Floridian flavors, carefully crafted to create a unique culinary journey. Meeting planners seeking a luxurious setting for their event will find Norman’s the ideal choice.

Prato: Prato, situated on Winter Park’s bustling Park Avenue, brings the flavors of Italy to Orlando. Chef Brandon McGlamery’s menu showcases rustic yet contemporary Italian cuisine, emphasizing fresh ingredients and wood-fired cooking techniques. Prato’s stylish interior and inviting ambiance make it an excellent venue for both small and large gatherings.

Se7en Bites: A trip to Orlando isn’t complete without a visit to Se7en Bites, a beloved local eatery known for its Southern comfort food and scrumptious desserts. Chef Trina Gregory-Propst’s culinary creations, such as her famous biscuits and pies, have garnered national attention. Meeting planners looking to infuse their event with a touch of Southern charm should consider Se7en Bites for breakfast, lunch or a sweet treat.

Domu: For those seeking bold, innovative flavors, Domu is a must. This trendy Asian fusion restaurant, located in East End Market, is led by Chef Sean “Sonny” Nguyen and is famous for its ramen and craft cocktails. The contemporary setting and delicious dishes make it an ideal location for a casual yet trendy gathering.

In Action

Orlando is perfect for corporate meetings but also an excellent location to host incentive trips as the place itself has an air of magic which draws people to it; even the city’s NBA team, the Orlando Magic, is named after this unique vibe.

Yvette Campbell, CMP, meeting broker for Meetings Made Easy, has been planning corporate events in Orlando for years, and notes it’s always a large draw for groups.

“I have learned that the key to a successful event is selecting the perfect hotel,” she says. “My experience has always been booking corporate events at hotels throughout Orlando.

She says that hotels are selected depending on the size of the event and the audience. “Some groups love being on the park site, especially if they plan on doing pre- and post-events with family members. Some prefer to be a little further from the hustle and bustle.”

Among the positives of having meetings in Orlando is the fact that the airport has no shortage of direct flights from around the world arriving daily. Attendees can select a traditional hotel but then have offsite private events within Disney, Universal or one of the thousand restaurant choices throughout the city or within a property.

“The food scene in Orlando is simply amazing,” Campbell says. “As a food enthusiast and lover of sushi, I have had the pleasure of enjoying some incredible meals at the Swan and Dolphin and Contemporary Resort. There are so many cuisine choices at hotels, in the parks and around the city to dine. The best part of eating out in Orlando is you’re always going to see amazing fireworks somewhere during your evening out.”

In the spring, Garcia managed a small client conference of 45 people in Orlando, and at the end of last year, her team managed a conference with 600 attendees there.

“All facets of both meetings were handled professionally and successfully,” she says. “The city ‘gets it’ and has all of the available resources you need. Conferences are its bread and butter and there are hundreds, if not thousands, of opportunities to connect with professionals working to support the city’s meetings industry.”

As an event producer who mainly focuses on customer-centric events for her division, Chermak looks for events that introduce decision makers to her company’s products.

“Orlando has made it possible to create the perfect atmospheric optimism that sets up our customers with positivity and fun,” says Chermak, who adds that when she invites VIPs to happy hour prior to inviting them to a park, she usually does not get many who will turn it down. “Doing business with built-in Orlando Hospitality makes it very easy. The city provides many types of team-building activities that enhance the experiences.”

Claire Gould, senior events manager for Flight Safety International, has planned numerous meetings in Orlando working with several hotels and venues, most notably the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC).

“The Orange County Convention Center is a great place to exhibit,” she says. “The cost of doing business and using the building’s services, such as electrical and rigging, is a real pleasure. They are very customer centric.”

Gould says that some of the pros of holding meetings in Orlando are that the area keeps growing and adding additional activities for all ages, and that the culinary scene keeps expanding and getting more sophisticated as well.

“Some of the favorite activities for attendees include golf, going to Howl at the Moon and just spending time together at some of the great restaurants,” Gould says.

One of her most memorable experiences in the city proves how great those in Orlando can be. “We were booked at a hotel near Downtown Disney, and three weeks prior to our event, our entire event of 150 people was moved, as the hotel had construction issues at a sister property. We were moved to Hilton Orlando at the Orange County Convention Center,” she says. “What made the event successful is the Hilton OCCC understood what a bad scene it was that we were being moved three weeks out, and the entire team got on board to assist with the move. They were all so kind, sympathetic and welcoming.”

Myriad of Venues

Orlando is known for its amazing resorts for families, but there are equally a number of great places for business people to stay in conjunction with a corporate meeting. “There are so many wonderful venues to choose from,” Garcia said. “I could host a meeting in Orlando for more than a week and incorporate different experiences each evening.”

Orlando World Center Marriott is the world’s largest Marriott Brand with 2,010 rooms and suites and more than 500,000 sf of meeting space. “The property features up to 104 meeting rooms of various sizes, including five ballrooms and beautiful outdoor meeting space at Harvest Terrace, Magnolia Lawn & Patio, Falls Pool Event Lawn and the Fairway Lawn, boasting over 200,000 sf to create any imaginable meeting or event,” says Robert Bray, general manager of Orlando World Center Marriott. “We offer culinary creativity – not only are there 10 dining outlets on property, but the resort’s catering team is available to co-create and customize an exceptional event.”

This year, the hotel has hosted numerous groups with a variety of needs.

“We were able to host a dine-around in our many restaurants for one group, saving them time and the cost of transportation,” Bray says. “For another, we were able to host an outdoor concert that was connected to their meeting space/exhibit hall. For another, we were able to provide 1,900 guest rooms at the hotel with another 700 at a nearby property, which included transportation to and from the overflow hotel. There truly is a world of possibilities when bringing events to Orlando World Center Marriott.”

Hilton Orlando offers a smart design for conventions and incentive trips.

“Our well-planned function space provides an easy flow between general sessions, catered events and breakouts,” says Chris Mueller, general manager for the hotel. “Conveniently located on the lower and lobby levels, all event and meetings space is easily accessible. Unique outdoor venues set the backdrop for a memorable event where attendees can enjoy the Florida sunshine or starry nights.”

He adds that the unique experiences that Orlando offers include incredible dining, resort amenities and an endless supply of area activities.

“You can’t beat the weather – the warm temperatures in the winter allow for unique outdoor meeting experiences,” Mueller says. “Orlando truly is a great city to have unique meeting experiences, with large conventions incorporating theme parks for team building with fun for everyone.”

The award-winning OCCC, located in the heart of the Convention Center District and only 15 minutes from the Orlando International Airport, provides a multitude of meeting options in two beautifully appointed buildings — the West and North-South.

With its variety of space and flexibility, the OCCC offers 7 million sf of combined meeting and exhibit space for events of all types and sizes. The West Building showcases tropical atriums, skylights and inviting courtyards.

“With distinctive architecture and tropical ambiance, the North-South Building is designed for flexibility and functionality, featuring a dramatic 1,500-ft. oversight pedestrian bridge with moving sidewalks leading to the West Building,” says Mark Tester, executive director of the OCCC.

Plus, he adds, by attending an event hosted at “The Center of Hospitality,” as it is called, attendees support one of the most innovative, large-scale sustainability programs in the U.S.

“The OCCC has demonstrated industry and community leadership by pioneering pathways for large venues to achieve continuously improving levels of sustainability stewardship,” Tester says. “Some of the green initiatives attendees and show organizers can enjoy include supreme walkability and mobility, renewable energy and building efficiency, the ability to donate food and compost food waste, water efficiency and waste reduction/diversion programs.”

The convention center is also surrounded by 125,000 guest rooms in the Central Florida region, including 5,000 directly connected to the facility by pedestrian bridge. A broad offering of show management and exhibitor services, ranging from catering to telecommunications, are considered the finest in the convention industry.

There are various theme parks and attractions within close proximity to the convention center, including SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Orlando Resort, Pointe Orlando and ICON Park.

Orlando and Orange County are some of the few destinations in the country that offer multiple retail, dining and entertainment complexes within minutes of the convention center – providing a unique experience for convention guests and attendees, Tester says. “Events and attendees are drawn to Orlando because of its vibrant culture, friendly communities and endless possibilities. When attendees are ready to take a break from the action, they will find dining, entertainment, shopping, recreation, theme parks and much more.”

Additionally, in 2023, in collaboration with Orlando Health and Visit Orlando, the OCCC inaugurated a Virtual Care Center. This initiative aimed to provide guests with immediate access to health care services during conferences, emphasizing the priority of health and safety for events and attendees.

Mickey and Goofy and Tigger, Oh My!

Disney Meetings & Events offers meeting planners and attendees access to world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources that transform clients’ events into unforgettable experiences.

Walt Disney World Resort encompasses four theme parks, five Disney-owned and -operated convention resorts, 140 unique and well-equipped meetings rooms and more than 495,000 total sf of indoor meeting space. And it’s all easily accessible via a network of monorails, watercraft and motor coaches.

“Since Walt Disney World Resort is more like a city than a hotel complex or resort, we offer a dramatic array of venues, services, experiences and opportunities to connect that can meet almost any client’s needs, whether that’s for content or customization,” says Brenda Goodwin, public relations manager for Walt Disney World Resort. “Our portfolio of Disney destinations is uniquely poised to meet the demand with pre-post stays at places people want to visit, allowing attendees to create new memories with their families or friends. This can help drive record-breaking attendance for conventions, and it’s a powerful motivator for incentive programs.”

Outside of meetings, Walt Disney World Resort features championship golf, world-class dining, a relaxing spa, sports complex and Disney Springs’ retail-entertainment-dining complex, in addition to sparkling lakes and waterways for boating, fishing and more.

From its world-famous theme parks to its Michelin-starred restaurants, Orlando truly is perfect for hosting both small and large events. C&IT