Projections for 2014 are that meeting and event budgets will remain tight. No doubt, that’s going to change how you do your job. For example, more and more organizations will be relying on hybrid events as a cost-effective alternative to the expense of business travel. As the business landscapes changes, it’s a good time to consider whether or not you have the skill set to deliver on your clients’ needs in the year ahead. In other words, what can you resolve to do to ensure that the next twelve months are profitable and even lucrative for you and your clients?
1. I will upgrade my technology. Is your desktop computer so old and slow that it seems as if gerbils must be inside cranking the motor to get it to operate? Come on. It’s time to upgrade. Slow computers, old software, cluttered hard drives, and - heaven help you - dial-up internet connections will bring your productivity to a screeching halt. Take the time to find out what technology hardware and software you need to keep current with the times, then resolve to make the investment.
2. I will learn and/or improve my social media skills. Some stats to consider: 400 million tweets are sent every day; 72% of adult Internet users are active on at least one social media channel; 4 billion videos are viewed on YouTube daily; and there are 166 million Facebook users in the US alone, which amounts to over half the entire US population*. What’s interesting is that these stats don’t even take into account other social media channels, such as Pinterest, Instagram, Snapchat and LinkedIn, just to name a few. If you’re not taking advantage of all social media has to offer, you’re miles behind the competition. Take a class, buy a book, attend a webinar — do whatever it takes to get up to speed and get social before opportunity passes you by.
3. I will explore what it takes to plan an effective hybrid event. According to a recent survey by Successful Meetings, many planners find that hybrid meetings are difficult to run effectively. However, as the trend toward these events continues to grow, planners need to look for ways to make the combination of live, in-person attendees mesh with the “virtual” online component. For many, the technical aspects of the event seem to be the most problematic. For example, ensuring that there is proper bandwidth and connectivity to accommodate all your attendees. Addressing these issues with a qualified IT expert early on in the planning process is your best bet for circumventing problems.
4. I will streamline my processes whenever possible. That includes delegating responsibilities to staff (if you have one) and utilizing online tools (like the free planning tools available at meetingpages.com including our easy Request Info and Request Quote from one or all suppliers that meet your search criteria) By streamlining processes, you will be better able to maximize effectiveness, while minimizing your time investment.
5. I will network with others in my industry. Networking with others in your industry keeps you sharp, helps you make important connections, allows you to refer others who may be able to help your clients, and most importantly, can be a significant source of new business. In addition to networking, you should continue to keep your skills up to date by attending lectures, classes, seminars and webinars in order to keep yourself at the top of your game and at the forefront of your field.
*http://www.dcmarketingpro.com/blog/bid/351376/Social-Media-Marketing-10-Facts-You-Need-to-Know.
