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We create experiences that leave your target audience thinking, feeling and remembering the information that is most important to you. With a worldwide scope and an infinite amount of talent, creativity and energy, SME is a global corporate event management company that redefines excellence in everything we do.\r\n\r\nSupporting your sales goals with corporate events is so much more than executing logistics or hosting the same sales meeting or incentive trip year after year. Our strategic planning experts will take your vision and build a comprehensive plan to achieve your goals, drive your sales cycle and make your programs more cost efficient. And we’re told that we are delightful to work with. How great is that?[/vc_column_text][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#211551\" size=\"25\" font_weight=\"bold\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"none\"]\r\n<h2>Discover Strategic Meetings &amp; Events</h2>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517602256063{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]\r\n\r\n[gallery size=\"full\" mobx_row_height=\"600\" link=\"file\" ids=\"3271\"]\r\n\r\n[/vc_column_text][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#211551\" size=\"25\" font_weight=\"bold\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"none\"]\r\n<h2>Comprehensive Corporate Event Management</h2>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text]Strategic Meetings &amp; Events professional planning experts become your extended team. Our sole focus is your success, specifically as you define it. The process is often filled with long hours, a myriad of changes and tons of pressure. Why not work with a team who thinks of everything, tracks the details, manages your spend and keeps you smiling even when you’re exhausted?[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text align=\"center\" animation=\"fade-in\"]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https://strategic.events/category/news-flash\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">News Flash</a></h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][mk_blog style=\"grid\" column=\"1\" image_size=\"full\" post_count=\"3\" disable_meta=\"false\" pagination=\"false\" cat=\"493\"][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"30\"][mk_social_networks size=\"medium\" style=\"simple-rounded\" border_color=\"#000050\" bg_color=\"#000050\" bg_hover_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_hover_color=\"#000050\" align=\"center\" facebook=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" twitter=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" pinterest=\"https://www.pinterest.com/strategicmeetingsevents/\" instagram=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" linkedin=\"https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-meetings-&amp;-events\" youtube=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsuJ-F1Ot1zSc1ccpj_DzXA\"][vc_separator][mk_padding_divider size=\"15\"][vc_single_image image=\"1125\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" css_animation=\"appear\" link=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/tastebuzz/\"][mk_blog style=\"grid\" column=\"1\" image_size=\"medium\" post_count=\"1\" excerpt_length=\"0\" pagination=\"false\" cat=\"40\"][mk_custom_sidebar sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][vc_row fullwidth=\"true\" css=\".vc_custom_1469113826042{background-color: #211551 !important;}\"][vc_column][vc_raw_js]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[/vc_raw_js][vc_raw_js]JTNDc2NyaXB0JTNFJTBBZmJxJTI4JTI3dHJhY2slMjclMkMlMjAlMjdWaWV3Q29udGVudCUyNyUyQyUyMCU3QiUwQXZhbHVlJTNBJTIwMy41MCUyQyUwQWN1cnJlbmN5JTNBJTIwJTI3VVNEJTI3JTBBJTdEJTI5JTNCJTBBJTNDJTJGc2NyaXB0JTNF[/vc_raw_js][mk_button dimension=\"flat\" size=\"large\" url=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/contact-strategic-meetings-events/\" target=\"_blank\" align=\"center\" fullwidth=\"true\" margin_bottom=\"6\" margin_right=\"0\" bg_color=\"#211551\" btn_hover_bg=\"#d6a461\" btn_hover_txt_color=\"#211551\" action=\"``mailto:Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events``\" type=\"``submit``\" value=\"``Send\"]Contact us to discover the perfect fit for your company’s event goals.[/mk_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]','Strategic Meetings & Events | Global Corporate Event Management','','inherit','closed','closed','','7-revision-v1','','','2018-02-02 20:10:57','2018-02-02 20:10:57','',7,'https://strategic.events/7-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10053,3,'2018-02-02 22:04:22','2018-02-02 22:04:22','<h2>Savings Superstars</h2>\r\n<h3>By Zachary Chouteau</h3>\r\nSaving money never goes out of style, regardless of the current economy or the budget you’re working with. For “dollars and sense” insights in a handful of key event areas, we turned to five proven stalwarts in their fields, and came away with some words of wisdom that should help other planners with savings and meet their bottom line.\r\n<h2><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1695\" title=\"Saving money never goes out of style, regardless of the current economy or the budget you’re working with. For “dollars and sense” insights in a handful of key event areas, we turned to five proven stalwarts in their fields, and came away with some words of wisdom that should help other planners with savings superstars\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Hanson.png\" alt=\"Saving money never goes out of style, regardless of the current economy or the budget you’re working with. For “dollars and sense” insights in a handful of key event areas, we turned to five proven stalwarts in their fields, and came away with some words of wisdom that should help other planners with savings superstars\" width=\"139\" height=\"212\" />Angel Hanson, Microsoft Planner</span></h2>\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">As the Event Marketing Manager for Microsoft, Angel Hanson has her hand in internal events for the tech giant, ranging from intimate functions to annual company meets of 15,000 attendees.</span> </span></strong>\r\n\r\nWith 10 years of event experience at Microsoft and nearly 20 in the industry, Hanson has a variety of cost-cutting tips up her sleeve.\r\n\r\nSome F&amp;B budget tips include utilizing leftover pastries from breakfast for the a.m. breakout and simply pairing with coffee, while also cutting dessert from the lunch menu entirely.\r\n\r\n“Nobody needs a heavy piece of cake with lunch, and that can save up to $7 a head, which really adds up when you’re hosting 1,500 attendees,” Hanson says.\r\n\r\nMaking the extra effort to book your own outside entertainment can be another major money-saver.\r\n\r\n“We hired our own DJ for several events, and it was at the same price that the [venue] in-house DJ charged for a single event,” she explains.\r\n\r\nHanson is also a big fan of re-purposing function space to save additional money.\r\n\r\n“You can use your meal hall as a showcase later and a network hub,” she says. “We recently took the same room, added new lights and furniture, and turned it into something totally different.”\r\n\r\nAnother big money-saver, according to Hanson, has been having staff organize their own transportation for company events.\r\n<h2><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1696 size-full\" title=\"Saving money never goes out of style, regardless of the current economy or the budget you’re working with. For “dollars and sense” insights in a handful of key event areas, we turned to five proven stalwarts in their fields, and came away with some words of wisdom that should help other planners with savings superstars\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Thomas.png\" alt=\"Saving money never goes out of style, regardless of the current economy or the budget you’re working with. For “dollars and sense” insights in a handful of key event areas, we turned to five proven stalwarts in their fields, and came away with some words of wisdom that should help other planners with savings superstars\" width=\"129\" height=\"191\" />Thomas Pitchford, Principal, Pitch Perfect Events</h2>\r\n<strong>Thomas Pitchford is an event specialist with his eye on decor and beyond, and hangs his company’s shingle in Pasadena, Calif.</strong>\r\n\r\nPitchford has a key resource when clients’ budgets don’t match their high expectations for an unforgettable setting: Creativity.\r\n\r\nPitch Perfect recently hosted a political fundraiser where the entrance area featured a series of large (10’x5′) charcoal sketches depicting famous leaders ranging from Gandhi to Lincoln.\r\n\r\n“That was really the extent of the ‘wow’ factor,” Pitchford says, “but it made a very memorable first impression.”\r\n\r\nHe also urges innovative use of lighting, which can alter and enhance ambiance without the cost of expensive ice sculptures or other fancy decor elements.\r\n\r\n“For a few hundred dollars you can purchase colored LED lights and lamps that can make a big impact,” he explains. “Or just ask AV about uplights.”\r\n\r\nPitchford says corners can also be cut by concentrating decor on a specific wall or other area of a room, rather than trying to enliven the entire space.\r\n\r\n“Take a window overlooking the sea and frame with sand on tables, seaglass and so forth,” he says. “Let the ocean or some kind of festive wall be the focus of things.”\r\n\r\nPitchford adds that cash can also be saved via bypassing a standard sit-down dinner affair for a hors d’oeuvre-driven doing, which also feels a bit more casual and spurs more networking as well.\r\n<h2><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1697 size-full\" title=\"Saving money never goes out of style, regardless of the current economy or the budget you’re working with. For “dollars and sense” insights in a handful of key event areas, we turned to five proven stalwarts in their fields, and came away with some words of wisdom that should help other planners with savings superstars\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Brandt.png\" alt=\"Saving money never goes out of style, regardless of the current economy or the budget you’re working with. For “dollars and sense” insights in a handful of key event areas, we turned to five proven stalwarts in their fields, and came away with some words of wisdom that should help other planners with savings superstars\" width=\"148\" height=\"217\" />Brandt Krueger, Event Technology Specialist</h2>\r\n<strong>Brandt Krueger is a seasoned event tech consultant, speaker and educator based out of Richfield, Minn. </strong>\r\n\r\n“Most of my biggest tips involve avoiding ‘gotchas’ in AV pricing before they happen,” Krueger says.\r\n\r\n“Watch out for things like ‘rigging point’ charges in which venues can include several hundred dollars per point, per day charges to use the fixed installation points in the ceiling to hang truss and other equipment. Another gotcha is requiring you to use the in-house AV. You should always be able to bring in an outside production or AV company if you want to, and many times this requirement, too, can be negotiated away.”\r\n\r\nKrueger also refers to today’s bandwidth pricing at venues as a “bloody mess,” as he opines there is no consistency in pricing or service provided. He urges planners to be sure to ask for a detailed report on usage following a function, helping them determine just how much bandwidth they’ll need next time around.\r\n<h2><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1698 size-full\" title=\"Saving money never goes out of style, regardless of the current economy or the budget you’re working with. For “dollars and sense” insights in a handful of key event areas, we turned to five proven stalwarts in their fields, and came away with some words of wisdom that should help other planners with savings superstars\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Lady.png\" alt=\"Saving money never goes out of style, regardless of the current economy or the budget you’re working with. For “dollars and sense” insights in a handful of key event areas, we turned to five proven stalwarts in their fields, and came away with some words of wisdom that should help other planners with savings superstars\" width=\"146\" height=\"155\" />Patti Shock, CPCE, CHT, Academic Consultant</h2>\r\n<strong>Patti Shock is an academic consultant for The International School of Hospitality and a Professor Emeritus with UNLV</strong><em>. </em>\r\n\r\nShock says that the way events present their F&amp;B can save a substantial amount of money.\r\n\r\n“At receptions, have appetizers passed on trays rather than having tables heaped with food,” she says. “Guests usually consume less food when it is passed on trays or platters. Plates can add as much as one-third [extra] to food costs.”\r\n\r\nAnother trick is dividing fare between table and tray servings, with tables offering more frugal fare like cheese and crackers, with upscale cuisine like shrimp limited to “timed waves” of tray servings.\r\n\r\nAs for the beverage side of things, Shock says the budget should not exceed 20 percent of the F&amp;B cost, and suggests having bartenders control alcohol dispensation with “pour spouts” such as Posi-Pour by Magnuson Industries.\r\n<h2><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-383\" title=\"The difference in strategic planning and event planning is the industry’s backbone. The first step in becoming a strategic planner is to learn these three saving money tips.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Christy-Roo-Crop-300x217.jpg\" alt=\"The difference in strategic planning and event planning is the industry’s backbone. The first step in becoming a strategic planner is to learn these three\" width=\"242\" height=\"175\" />Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM, President, Strategic Meetings And Events</h2>\r\n<strong>Christy Lamagna has organized gatherings from intimate retreats to events of 150,000.</strong>\r\n\r\nLamagna has a wealth of budgeting gems gained from 25 years in the industry. For receptions, she advises popping some bubbly, as attendees “don’t drink champagne in abundance but feel very glamorous when served it, so the presentation and the cache goes a long way.” Another easy trick is hosting only a dessert reception, giving attendees free time for dinner on their own away from the venue. In other event areas, she advises arranging a cumulative attrition rate with your venue that includes a provision to only be charged for rooms in your category—not a full house; and also offering event speakers the chance to sell their book in return for a lower appearance fee.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Savings Superstars, Savings, Save, Money, Event Planning, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Meetings Today</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.meetingstoday.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-4445 size-medium\" title=\"Meetings Today\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/meetings-today-logo-300x185.jpg\" alt=\"Meetings Today\" width=\"300\" height=\"185\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Savings Superstars','','inherit','closed','closed','','709-revision-v1','','','2018-02-02 22:04:22','2018-02-02 22:04:22','',709,'https://strategic.events/709-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10054,3,'2018-02-02 22:12:39','2018-02-02 22:12:39','<h2>Become A Strategic Planner</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\n<strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Become a strategic planner with these first steps</span></strong>\r\n\r\nThe difference in strategic planning and event planning is the industry’s backbone. Just like <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-sponsorships/\">sponsorship</a> dollars being the lifeblood of an events’ budget, strategy is the life-sustaining infrastructure upon which the industry’s future will be built. The only difference; our attention and abilities are the currency that will maintain and <a href=\"https://strategic.events/how-to-become-strategic-planner-change-future/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">propel our industry’s future</a>. It will be as robust as the energy we dedicate to it.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-383 size-medium\" title=\"The difference in strategic planning and event planning is the industry’s backbone. Just like sponsorship dollars being the lifeblood of an events’ budget, strategy is the life-sustaining infrastructure upon which the industry’s future will be built. Become A Strategic Planner\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Christy-Roo-Crop-300x217.jpg\" alt=\"The difference in strategic planning and event planning is the industry’s backbone. Just like sponsorship dollars being the lifeblood of an events’ budget, strategy is the life-sustaining infrastructure upon which the industry’s future will be built. Become A Strategic Planner\" width=\"300\" height=\"217\" />Strategic planners are creating a paradigm shift while doing what comes naturally. They don’t just think outside the box. They stand on top of it while gazing out upon a magnificent view that is far above the average planners’ sights. The result? A rewarding, satisfying career as a respected professional and expert in the field. The <a href=\"https://strategic.events/meetings-christy-lamagna-solution/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategic approach</a> is applied to everything we do. All actions track back to a specific, defined, agreed upon goal, with the first goal that our professional energies are going to make a difference and an unshakeable commitment to making a difference in the industry.\r\n\r\nThe first step in <a href=\"https://strategic.events/why-planners-need-to-get-strategic/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">becoming a strategic planner</a> is to learn these three key phrases which make up our mantra:\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>Everything we do is goal based.</li>\r\n 	<li>Events must answer the critical question, ‘What’s in it for me?’ for the target audience.</li>\r\n 	<li>Events are not about us.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\nThis simple, common sense mantra, if applied to all your workday actions, will provide exponential returns.\r\n\r\nHave a topic you want to be covered or a question you want to be answered?\r\nEmail Christy at <a href=\"mailto:Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events</a>.\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Strategic Planners, Strategic Planner, Strategic Planning, Event Planning, Event Planners, Strategic Events, Meetings, Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Midwest Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.midwestmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-1348 size-full\" title=\"Midwest Meetings\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Midwest-Meetings-logo-swoosh.jpg\" alt=\"Midwest Meetings\" width=\"170\" height=\"58\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Become A Strategic Planner','','inherit','closed','closed','','707-revision-v1','','','2018-02-02 22:12:39','2018-02-02 22:12:39','',707,'https://strategic.events/707-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10055,3,'2018-02-02 22:22:27','2018-02-02 22:22:27','<h2>Sometimes It\'s Better Not To Follow The Leader</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nI’ve been leading teams since I was 18. Even though I’ve never had formal management training, I can say with confidence that I’m an effective leader. How do I know? I do the opposite of what my bosses did to make me miserable.\r\n\r\nSometimes the best way to decide what you want is to know what you don’t want and work backward. In this instance, I paid attention to rumblings about managers in the breakroom. I decided I’d do all I could to make sure my team had little reason to add their voices to the litany of gripes.\r\n\r\nI paid attention to how my team reacted when I walked into their offices. Actions are the beacon of <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategically-building-your-information-pipeline/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">information</a> about how people truly feel. When someone tensed up as I approached, I realized it wasn’t because they had done something wrong, it was because I made them nervous. I only found that out by paying attention.\r\n\r\n<span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Getting things done</strong></span>\r\n\r\nPeople’s work products are sometimes out of sync with their abilities. Rather than blame a lack of productivity or subpar work on the person, take a step back. Are you tailoring your management style to your audience or are you a “one-attitude-fits-all” boss? That we all have individual preferences, opinions and skills is not news. Why then, would we imagine everyone has the same work habits or professional needs?\r\n\r\nI had a team member who was smart, creative and eager, yet wasn’t producing. My style is to tell someone what needs to be done and let them work the process however they choose. It never occurred to me that for some, a lack of direction is overwhelming. When I gave this person a list of what I needed done, she exceeded all expectations. Were I to give a “to do” list to someone else on my team, I would offend them terribly.\r\n\r\n<span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Rewards</strong></span>\r\n\r\nSome people want to be praised one-on-one. Others want their accolades at team meetings. Get that distinction wrong and you’ll be going backward in a genuine effort to do a good thing.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft wp-image-724 size-medium\" title=\"I’ve been leading teams since I was 18. Even though I’ve never had formal management training, I can say with confidence that I’m an effective leader. How do I know? I do the opposite of what my bosses did to make me miserable. Sometimes It\'s Better Not To Follow The Leader\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-11.25.00-AM-300x227.png\" alt=\"I’ve been leading teams since I was 18. Even though I’ve never had formal management training, I can say with confidence that I’m an effective leader. How do I know? I do the opposite of what my bosses did to make me miserable. Sometimes It\'s Better Not To Follow The Leader\" width=\"300\" height=\"227\" />Incentive programs should also be tailored to the recipients. Money inspires some; others value comp time. Some may even prefer a tangible item. Give the wrong incentive and it hurts morale and costs you money.\r\n\r\nAnother mistake I made was assuming everyone wanted to climb the corporate ladder. I called my assistant into my office and announced she was being promoted. She burst into tears and they were not tears of joy. She explained that she had no desire to manage staff, take on more work, attend meetings or increase her responsibilities. She wanted a job, not a career. She excelled at what she did and wanted to be left to it. Communication is the never-fail fallback. Ask your team members to give you a performance review, or institute “skip level” meetings where your team sits with your boss and shares feedback. If the thought of either makes you shudder, you may have some work to do.\r\n\r\nDo these practices work for you as a manager or employee? What can you add to the list? Please comment in the box below.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Sometimes Its Better Not To Follow The Leader, Leadership, Leader, Event Planners, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Plan Your Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://planyourmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-398 size-full\" title=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Plan-Your-Meetings_250.jpg\" alt=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" width=\"250\" height=\"81\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Sometimes It\'s Better Not To Follow The Leader','','inherit','closed','closed','','705-revision-v1','','','2018-02-02 22:22:27','2018-02-02 22:22:27','',705,'https://strategic.events/705-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10056,3,'2018-02-02 22:26:05','2018-02-02 22:26:05','[mk_page_section bg_color=\"#211551\" bg_stretch=\"true\" min_height=\"20\" padding_top=\"0\" padding_bottom=\"0\" top_shape_color=\"#ffffff\" bottom_shape_color=\"#ffffff\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#d6a461\" size=\"25\" line_height=\"50\" margin_top=\"20\" margin_bottom=\"0\" font_family=\"Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif\" font_type=\"safefont\" align=\"right\"]VIDEOS[/mk_fancy_title][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#ffffff\" size=\"12\" line_height=\"50\" letter_spacing=\"2\" margin_bottom=\"0\" font_family=\"Open+Sans\" font_type=\"google\" align=\"right\"]HOME &gt;&gt; VIDEOS[/mk_fancy_title][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section bg_image=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/shutterstock_246371074_bck3_light.jpg\" bg_stretch=\"true\" min_height=\"1200\" full_width=\"true\" padding_top=\"0\" padding_bottom=\"0\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column width=\"1/6\"][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517610360616{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]\r\n\r\n[gallery link=\"file\" size=\"medium\" mobx_spacing=\"4\" mobx_row_height=\"240\" ids=\"8440,10034,10035,10036,3271,10037,10041,10044,10045,10046,10047,10048,3510\"]\r\n\r\n[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][mk_social_networks size=\"medium\" style=\"simple-rounded\" border_color=\"#000050\" bg_color=\"#000050\" bg_hover_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_hover_color=\"#000050\" align=\"center\" facebook=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" twitter=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" pinterest=\"https://www.pinterest.com/strategicmeetingsevents/\" instagram=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" linkedin=\"https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-meetings-&amp;-events\" youtube=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsuJ-F1Ot1zSc1ccpj_DzXA\"][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/6\"][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][vc_row fullwidth=\"true\" css=\".vc_custom_1469113417543{background-color: #211551 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dimension=\"flat\" size=\"large\" url=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/contact-strategic-meetings-events/\" target=\"_blank\" align=\"center\" fullwidth=\"true\" margin_bottom=\"6\" margin_right=\"0\" bg_color=\"#211551\" btn_hover_bg=\"#d6a461\" btn_hover_txt_color=\"#211551\"]Contact us today for a strategic plan that is headline worthy.[/mk_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]','Event Planning Videos','','inherit','closed','closed','','3089-revision-v1','','','2018-02-02 22:26:05','2018-02-02 22:26:05','',3089,'https://strategic.events/3089-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10057,3,'2018-02-02 22:27:50','2018-02-02 22:27:50','[mk_page_section bg_color=\"#211551\" bg_stretch=\"true\" min_height=\"20\" padding_top=\"0\" padding_bottom=\"0\" top_shape_color=\"#ffffff\" bottom_shape_color=\"#ffffff\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#d6a461\" size=\"25\" line_height=\"50\" margin_top=\"20\" margin_bottom=\"0\" font_family=\"Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif\" font_type=\"safefont\" align=\"right\"]VIDEOS[/mk_fancy_title][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#ffffff\" size=\"12\" line_height=\"50\" letter_spacing=\"2\" margin_bottom=\"0\" font_family=\"Open+Sans\" font_type=\"google\" align=\"right\"]HOME &gt;&gt; VIDEOS[/mk_fancy_title][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section bg_image=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/shutterstock_246371074_bck3_light.jpg\" bg_stretch=\"true\" min_height=\"1200\" full_width=\"true\" padding_top=\"0\" padding_bottom=\"0\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column width=\"1/6\"][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517610468307{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]\r\n\r\n[gallery link=\"file\" size=\"medium\" mobx_spacing=\"4\" mobx_row_height=\"240\" ids=\"10034,10035,10036,3271,10037,10041,10044,10045,10046,10047,10048,3510\"]\r\n\r\n[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][mk_social_networks size=\"medium\" style=\"simple-rounded\" border_color=\"#000050\" bg_color=\"#000050\" bg_hover_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_hover_color=\"#000050\" align=\"center\" facebook=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" twitter=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" pinterest=\"https://www.pinterest.com/strategicmeetingsevents/\" instagram=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" linkedin=\"https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-meetings-&amp;-events\" youtube=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsuJ-F1Ot1zSc1ccpj_DzXA\"][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/6\"][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][vc_row fullwidth=\"true\" css=\".vc_custom_1469113417543{background-color: #211551 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dimension=\"flat\" size=\"large\" url=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/contact-strategic-meetings-events/\" target=\"_blank\" align=\"center\" fullwidth=\"true\" margin_bottom=\"6\" margin_right=\"0\" bg_color=\"#211551\" btn_hover_bg=\"#d6a461\" btn_hover_txt_color=\"#211551\"]Contact us today for a strategic plan that is headline worthy.[/mk_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]','Event Planning Videos','','inherit','closed','closed','','3089-revision-v1','','','2018-02-02 22:27:50','2018-02-02 22:27:50','',3089,'https://strategic.events/3089-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10058,3,'2018-02-02 22:33:57','2018-02-02 22:33:57','<h2>Sometimes It\'s Better Not To Follow The Leader</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nI’ve been leading teams since I was 18. Even though I’ve never had formal management training, I can say with confidence that I’m an effective leader. How do I know? I do the opposite of what my bosses did to make me miserable and know sometimes it\'s best not to follow the leader.\r\n\r\nSometimes the best way to decide what you want is to know what you don’t want and work backward. In this instance, I paid attention to rumblings about managers in the breakroom. I decided I’d do all I could to make sure my team had little reason to add their voices to the litany of gripes.\r\n\r\nI paid attention to how my team reacted when I walked into their offices. Actions are the beacon of <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategically-building-your-information-pipeline/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">information</a> about how people truly feel. When someone tensed up as I approached, I realized it wasn’t because they had done something wrong, it was because I made them nervous. I only found that out by paying attention.\r\n\r\n<span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Getting things done</strong></span>\r\n\r\nPeople’s work products are sometimes out of sync with their abilities. Rather than blame a lack of productivity or subpar work on the person, take a step back. Are you tailoring your management style to your audience or are you a “one-attitude-fits-all” boss? That we all have individual preferences, opinions and skills is not news. Why then, would we imagine everyone has the same work habits or professional needs?\r\n\r\nI had a team member who was smart, creative and eager, yet wasn’t producing. My style is to tell someone what needs to be done and let them work the process however they choose. It never occurred to me that for some, a lack of direction is overwhelming. When I gave this person a list of what I needed done, she exceeded all expectations. Were I to give a “to do” list to someone else on my team, I would offend them terribly.\r\n\r\n<span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Rewards</strong></span>\r\n\r\nSome people want to be praised one-on-one. Others want their accolades at team meetings. Get that distinction wrong and you’ll be going backward in a genuine effort to do a good thing.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft wp-image-724 size-medium\" title=\"I’ve been leading teams since I was 18. Even though I’ve never had formal management training, I can say with confidence that I’m an effective leader. How do I know? I do the opposite of what my bosses did to make me miserable. Sometimes It\'s Better Not To Follow The Leader\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-11.25.00-AM-300x227.png\" alt=\"I’ve been leading teams since I was 18. Even though I’ve never had formal management training, I can say with confidence that I’m an effective leader. How do I know? I do the opposite of what my bosses did to make me miserable. Sometimes It\'s Better Not To Follow The Leader\" width=\"300\" height=\"227\" />Incentive programs should also be tailored to the recipients. Money inspires some; others value comp time. Some may even prefer a tangible item. Give the wrong incentive and it hurts morale and costs you money.\r\n\r\nAnother mistake I made was assuming everyone wanted to climb the corporate ladder. I called my assistant into my office and announced she was being promoted. She burst into tears and they were not tears of joy. She explained that she had no desire to manage staff, take on more work, attend meetings or increase her responsibilities. She wanted a job, not a career. She excelled at what she did and wanted to be left to it. Communication is the never-fail fallback. Ask your team members to give you a performance review, or institute “skip level” meetings where your team sits with your boss and shares feedback. If the thought of either makes you shudder, you may have some work to do.\r\n\r\nDo these practices work for you as a manager or employee? What can you add to the list? Please comment in the box below.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Sometimes Its Better Not To Follow The Leader, Leadership, Leader, Event Planners, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Plan Your Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://planyourmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-398 size-full\" title=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Plan-Your-Meetings_250.jpg\" alt=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" width=\"250\" height=\"81\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Sometimes It\'s Better Not To Follow The Leader','','inherit','closed','closed','','705-revision-v1','','','2018-02-02 22:33:57','2018-02-02 22:33:57','',705,'https://strategic.events/705-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10059,3,'2018-02-02 22:42:47','2018-02-02 22:42:47','<h2>Goal Setting, Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nThis three-part series looks at the ins and outs of goal setting.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-1-start-end/\"><strong>Part 1:</strong></a> Start at the end and you can get anywhere\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-2-s-m-r-t-ones/\"><strong>Part 2:</strong></a> S.M.A.R.T. goals get finished first\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/703-2/\"><strong>Part 3:</strong></a> The goal is to have one\r\n<h3>Goal Setting Part 1</h3>\r\nMy coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-2570 size-medium\" title=\"My coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated. Goal Setting, Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/istock_000017343609large-make-things-happen-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"My coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated. Goal Setting, Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" />A colleague is developing a new product and trying to narrow down the endless list of options for where to sell it. She’s paralyzed by the scope of choices. She told me she needs more time before going to market.\r\n\r\nA friend is redoing her store’s decor. She just decided to delay the grand reopening because she’s behind schedule. She can’t decide what colors to use, what decor to choose and what kind of “vibe” to create. She has spent hours with designers looking at paint and fabric swatches and after three weeks of searching, has gotten nowhere. The more research she does, the more confused she becomes.\r\n\r\nThese scenarios might seem disparate, but each person has the same problem with the same solution. Chances are, whatever your largest obstacle is right now, you too, have the same problem needing a solution.\r\n\r\nChallenges tend to stem from not having a goal or having a goal without a well-defined action plan. Everything you do is done to achieve a goal. Even mundane tasks are goal-driven: Each time you put gas in your car, you’re achieving a goal. So, why do we forget this essential step when tackling substantial issues?\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft wp-image-736 size-medium\" title=\"My coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated. Goal Setting, Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-11.46.54-AM-300x190.png\" alt=\"My coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated. Goal Setting, Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere\" width=\"300\" height=\"190\" />We become fixated on obstacles and lose sight of why we started the journey. That creates inertia, confusion, frustration and self-doubt. All too many of us give up, thinking the problem is insurmountable. The reality is the problem isn’t actually the problem. The problem is that our focus is on the wrong thing. Identifying the true goal is the first step to success. Doing that is sometimes more challenging than we think. We often oversimplify or overcomplicate the process.\r\n\r\n<em>Oversimplifying: You’re drowning at work, putting in late nights and weekend hours. You can’t work harder, but you simply can’t get it all done. You’re exhausted and frustrated. The solution is an assistant, right?</em>\r\n\r\n<em>Maybe not. Further analysis may reveal that you’re a terrible delegater. You may feel out of control when you aren’t in charge of the entire process, which is unrealistic, bad for the team morale and can diminish the final product. Or perhaps you fall into the ‘It’s faster to do it myself than show someone what I want done” syndrome. That’s a never-ending cycle that only you can change.</em>\r\n\r\nIf you’re focused on the symptom (exhaustion from all the hours you’re working), you may be unhappy at work, exhausted and short-tempered, resentful and ready to demand a larger staff. Shift your focus to learning the art of delegating and suddenly things change. Not only do you have more time and a happier team, you’ve let go of the self-induced and misplaced work frustration.\r\n\r\nThe bottom line: Nothing works without a plan. As event PLANNERS we’re expected to have a plan. Event STRATEGISTS always start at the end and build from there. Want to learn how to do that, too? Wednesday’s column will show you how.\r\n\r\nLet’s continue the conversation. Please leave your comments, questions and concerns in the box below and/or find me at @<a href=\"https://twitter.com/SMEChristy\">SMEChristy</a> or at <a href=\"https://christy.lamagna@strategic.events\">christy.lamagna@strategic.events</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Goal Setting, Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere, Goal, Goals, Event Planning, Event Planners, Planners, Strategic Planners, Event Strategists, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Plan Your Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://planyourmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-398 size-full\" title=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Plan-Your-Meetings_250.jpg\" alt=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" width=\"250\" height=\"81\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Goal Setting, Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere','','inherit','closed','closed','','699-revision-v1','','','2018-02-02 22:42:47','2018-02-02 22:42:47','',699,'https://strategic.events/699-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10060,3,'2018-02-02 22:50:45','2018-02-02 22:50:45','<h2>Goal Setting Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nThis three-part series looks at the ins and outs of goal setting.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-1-start-end/\"><strong>Part 1:</strong></a> Start at the end and you can get anywhere\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-2-s-m-r-t-ones/\"><strong>Part 2:</strong></a> S.M.A.R.T. goals get finished first\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/703-2/\"><strong>Part 3:</strong></a> The goal is to have one\r\n<h3>Goal Setting Part 1</h3>\r\nMy coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-2570 size-medium\" title=\"My coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated. Goal Setting, Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/istock_000017343609large-make-things-happen-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"My coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated. Goal Setting, Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" />A colleague is developing a new product and trying to narrow down the endless list of options for where to sell it. She’s paralyzed by the scope of choices. She told me she needs more time before going to market.\r\n\r\nA friend is redoing her store’s decor. She just decided to delay the grand reopening because she’s behind schedule. She can’t decide what colors to use, what decor to choose and what kind of “vibe” to create. She has spent hours with designers looking at paint and fabric swatches and after three weeks of searching, has gotten nowhere. The more research she does, the more confused she becomes.\r\n\r\nThese scenarios might seem disparate, but each person has the same problem with the same solution. Chances are, whatever your largest obstacle is right now, you too, have the same problem needing a solution.\r\n\r\nChallenges tend to stem from not having a goal or having a goal without a well-defined action plan. Everything you do is done to achieve a goal. Even mundane tasks are goal-driven: Each time you put gas in your car, you’re achieving a goal. So, why do we forget this essential step when tackling substantial issues?\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft wp-image-736 size-medium\" title=\"My coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated. Goal Setting, Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-11.46.54-AM-300x190.png\" alt=\"My coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated. Goal Setting, Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere\" width=\"300\" height=\"190\" />We become fixated on obstacles and lose sight of why we started the journey. That creates inertia, confusion, frustration and self-doubt. All too many of us give up, thinking the problem is insurmountable. The reality is the problem isn’t actually the problem. The problem is that our focus is on the wrong thing. Identifying the true goal is the first step to success. Doing that is sometimes more challenging than we think. We often oversimplify or overcomplicate the process.\r\n\r\n<em>Oversimplifying: You’re drowning at work, putting in late nights and weekend hours. You can’t work harder, but you simply can’t get it all done. You’re exhausted and frustrated. The solution is an assistant, right?</em>\r\n\r\n<em>Maybe not. Further analysis may reveal that you’re a terrible delegater. You may feel out of control when you aren’t in charge of the entire process, which is unrealistic, bad for the team morale and can diminish the final product. Or perhaps you fall into the ‘It’s faster to do it myself than show someone what I want done” syndrome. That’s a never-ending cycle that only you can change.</em>\r\n\r\nIf you’re focused on the symptom (exhaustion from all the hours you’re working), you may be unhappy at work, exhausted and short-tempered, resentful and ready to demand a larger staff. Shift your focus to learning the art of delegating and suddenly things change. Not only do you have more time and a happier team, you’ve let go of the self-induced and misplaced work frustration.\r\n\r\nThe bottom line: Nothing works without a plan. As event PLANNERS we’re expected to have a plan. Event STRATEGISTS always start at the end and build from there. Want to learn how to do that, too? Wednesday’s column will show you how.\r\n\r\nLet’s continue the conversation. Please leave your comments, questions and concerns in the box below and/or find me at @<a href=\"https://twitter.com/SMEChristy\">SMEChristy</a> or at <a href=\"https://christy.lamagna@strategic.events\">christy.lamagna@strategic.events</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Goal Setting, Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere, Goal, Goals, Event Planning, Event Planners, Planners, Strategic Planners, Event Strategists, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Plan Your Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://planyourmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-398 size-full\" title=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Plan-Your-Meetings_250.jpg\" alt=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" width=\"250\" height=\"81\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Goal Setting Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere','','inherit','closed','closed','','699-revision-v1','','','2018-02-02 22:50:45','2018-02-02 22:50:45','',699,'https://strategic.events/699-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10061,3,'2018-02-02 22:56:09','2018-02-02 22:56:09','<h2>Goal Setting Part 3: The Trick Is To Have One</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nThis three-part series looks at the ins and outs of goal setting.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-1-start-end/\"><strong>Part 1:</strong></a> Start at the end and you can get anywhere\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-2-s-m-r-t-ones/\"><strong>Part 2:</strong></a> S.M.A.R.T. goals get finished first\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/trick_is_to_have_one/\"><strong>Part 3:</strong></a> The goal is to have a goal\r\n\r\nDoes this sound familiar: You’re working on a project when the phone rings. Your client/boss/CEO has a short-turn meeting that must be planned and you need to scramble to get it done. Halfway through, the plan changes or the meeting is canceled. The work you were doing before the call remains halfway finished and people are clamoring for those deliverables. You’ve worked your tail off but are behind schedule somehow.\r\n\r\nSo, how do you tame that beast called chaos? It’s not by working harder, as the bags under your eyes will attest. It’s not so much about doing as it is about communicating. A few key conversations could turn chaos into victory.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-727 size-medium\" title=\"Does this sound familiar: You’re working on a project when the phone rings. Your client/boss/CEO has a short-turn meeting that must be planned and you need to scramble to get it done. Goal Setting Part 3: The Trick Is To Have One\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-11.38.14-AM-300x226.png\" alt=\"Does this sound familiar: You’re working on a project when the phone rings. Your client/boss/CEO has a short-turn meeting that must be planned and you need to scramble to get it done. Goal Setting Part 3: The Trick Is To Have One\" width=\"300\" height=\"226\" />When a client (internal or external) asks me to produce something, the first question I ask is, “What’s your goal?” Without one, we can’t begin, or if we do, we’ll spin our wheels and waste resources. What people call a goal and what actually is a goal often are different things.\r\n<h3>Goal Setting Part 3</h3>\r\nThere are three keys to uncovering the true goal of a meeting and creating a S.M.A.R.T goal:\r\n\r\n<strong>1. Ask all key stakeholders what they think the goal is</strong>\r\n\r\nHave each reply in writing, then compare the answers. Chances are strong that you’ll have as many visions as you have replies. Until one voice speaks to the plan, you have chaos.\r\n\r\nIf the person in charge is too many tiers above you, reach out to those on the management levels you can reach. Get them on the same page. Then have the highest person in that food chain get sign-off from the person in charge at the top.\r\n\r\n<strong>2. Make sure everyone understands the cost of any changes</strong>\r\n\r\nFor instance, before sending the venue a contract to sign, you likely let the finance team know what the ramifications are once the venue is booked. (If you or someone in your department isn’t doing this, you’re out of compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley, or <a href=\"https://strategic.events/sarbanes-oxley-act-sox-socks-planners/\">SOX</a>, Act, and need to address that immediately.)\r\n\r\nNext time you send that report, copy the powers that be so that the cost of the decision is understood. If there is any question in their minds about dates, location or other event details, make sure they know that deciding next week instead of now may cost thousands of dollars. This <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategically-building-your-information-pipeline/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">information</a> may motivate them.\r\n\r\nMake sure your deliverables include prices. So if the printer needs artwork by the 1st to do the project at a standard rate but will charge a penalty if artwork arrives late, make sure everyone knows this. When people see the cost of their indecision or procrastination, actions tend to change.\r\n\r\n<strong>3. Send regular topline updates</strong>\r\n\r\nThese should include spending milestones and deadlines and should be sent to anyone with the potential to effect change on the plan. By keeping everyone informed with brief, concise reports, you increase the odds of people paying attention. (If the emails are not read, try not to get frustrated. It’s not about you.)\r\n\r\nOnce you start down this communication and planning path, there are endless opportunities to improve your executive team’s turnaround time, raise awareness levels and hopefully change unhelpful behavior. So, make your goal a S.M.A.R.T one and get the people around you on the same page. Victory is a much nicer work companion than chaos.\r\n\r\nShare your victories and chaos stories in the comment box below and/or at <a href=\"https://twitter.com/SMEChristy\">@SMECHRISTY</a> or <a href=\"https://christy.lamagna@strategic.events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">christy.lamagna@strategic.events.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Goal Setting, The Trick Is To Have One, Goal, Goals, Event Planning, Event Planners, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Plan Your Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://planyourmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-398 size-full\" title=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Plan-Your-Meetings_250.jpg\" alt=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" width=\"250\" height=\"81\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Goal Setting Part 3: The Trick Is To Have One','','inherit','closed','closed','','703-revision-v1','','','2018-02-02 22:56:09','2018-02-02 22:56:09','',703,'https://strategic.events/703-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10062,3,'2018-02-02 22:57:33','2018-02-02 22:57:33','<h2>Goal Setting Part 2: S.M.A.R.T. Ones Get Finished First</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nThis three-part series looks at the ins and outs of goal setting.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-1-start-end/\"><strong>Part 1:</strong></a> Start at the end and you can get anywhere\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-2-s-m-r-t-ones/\"><strong>Part 2:</strong></a> S.M.A.R.T. goals get finished first\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/703-2/\"><strong>Part 3:</strong></a> The goal is to have a goal\r\n<h3>Goal Setting Part 2</h3>\r\nOften, a chief struggle for planners can be too much work and not enough time. But look closer and you might see that it’s due more to a lack of clarity and less with being understaffed. Not sure what I mean? Keep reading.\r\n\r\nYou likely are familiar with the concept that goals are what helps people set their life direction. We’re taught that goals are important to have, so we set them and set out to conquer the world. If the goals remain elusive and we find ourselves busier and busier, this leads to frustration. The busier we get, the less time we have to spend on accomplishing our goals.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-730\" title=\"Often, a chief struggle for planners can be too much work and not enough time. But look closer and you might see that it’s due more to a lack of clarity and less with being understaffed. Not sure what I mean? Keep reading. Goal Setting Part 2: S.M.A.R.T. Ones Get Finished First\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-11.43.38-AM-300x150.png\" alt=\"Often, a chief struggle for planners can be too much work and not enough time. But look closer and you might see that it’s due more to a lack of clarity and less with being understaffed. Not sure what I mean? Keep reading. Goal Setting Part 2: S.M.A.R.T. Ones Get Finished First\" width=\"356\" height=\"178\" />The truth is that something critical comes before the goal-setting: a PLAN. Without one, very little work can be successfully and purposefully accomplished. Symptoms of a life that lacks a plan include exhaustion, frustration, work overload, stress, disappointment in your personal and professional lives, and a general lack of direction.\r\n\r\nSounds too obvious, right? But pair a plan to a goal and you have a S.M.A.R.T goal. That’s no ordinary goal and it’s virtually bulletproof, if you do the work.\r\n\r\nHere’s the difference between a goal and a S.M.A.R.T goal:\r\n\r\n<strong>Specific.</strong> Clearly identify what you want to achieve. The more specific, the greater your chance of success.\r\n\r\n<strong>Measurable.</strong> What does success look like? Can it be measured in pounds, dollars, hours or inches? Use whatever pertains to your quest.\r\n\r\n<strong>Actionable.</strong> What actions will you take to achieve this goal? In other words: What is the PLAN? Create the steps — how much time, when, doing what, etc.\r\n\r\n<strong>Realistic.</strong> Dreaming big is wonderful but run a reality check before you decide your goal is ready to execute.\r\n\r\n<strong>Timely.</strong> Is this goal attainable in the amount of time you have? You don’t have to achieve it all at once. Make sure you aren’t setting yourself up to fail by aiming too high rather than breaking the process into smaller goals.\r\n\r\nAn example of a goal versus a S.M.A.R.T. goal:\r\n\r\n<strong>Goal:</strong> I’m going to get my work schedule under control.\r\n\r\n<strong>S.M.A.R.T. goal:</strong> I will prioritize my workload and delegate what I don’t need to personally handle, so I can leave the office by 6 p.m. a minimum of three days a week. To do this, I will meet with my team at 8 a.m. every Monday, reassign tasks, train everyone on exactly what is expected and mentor them throughout the process.\r\n\r\nSee the difference? More importantly, live the difference by digging in and creating a S.M.A.R.T goal of your own.\r\n\r\nWe are planners. People count on us. In order to deliver, we have to have our own path cleared and established. So take a look at what’s on your desk. Is the work created because the goals on the projects are unclear? There’s a good chance that it is.\r\n\r\nNot sure how to tackle that monster? Read Thursday’s column.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLet’s continue the conversation. Share your S.M.A.R.T. goals and success stories in the box below and/or find me at <a href=\"https://twitter.com/SMEChristy\">@SMEChristy </a>or at <a href=\"https://Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events\">Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Goal Setting, S.M.A.R.T. Ones Get Finished First, Smart Goals, Goals, Event Planning, Event Planners, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Plan Your Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://planyourmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-398 size-full\" title=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Plan-Your-Meetings_250.jpg\" alt=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" width=\"250\" height=\"81\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Goal Setting Part 2: S.M.A.R.T. Ones Get Finished First','','inherit','closed','closed','','701-revision-v1','','','2018-02-02 22:57:33','2018-02-02 22:57:33','',701,'https://strategic.events/701-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10063,3,'2018-02-02 23:03:46','2018-02-02 23:03:46','<h2>Goal Setting Part 3: The Trick Is To Have One</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nThis three-part series looks at the ins and outs of goal setting.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-1/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Part 1:</strong></a> Start at the end and you can get anywhere\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-2/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Part 2:</strong></a> S.M.A.R.T. goals get finished first\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-3-trick/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Part 3:</strong></a> The goal is to have a goal\r\n\r\nDoes this sound familiar: You’re working on a project when the phone rings. Your client/boss/CEO has a short-turn meeting that must be planned and you need to scramble to get it done. Halfway through, the plan changes or the meeting is canceled. The work you were doing before the call remains halfway finished and people are clamoring for those deliverables. You’ve worked your tail off but are behind schedule somehow.\r\n\r\nSo, how do you tame that beast called chaos? It’s not by working harder, as the bags under your eyes will attest. It’s not so much about doing as it is about communicating. A few key conversations could turn chaos into victory.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-727 size-medium\" title=\"Does this sound familiar: You’re working on a project when the phone rings. Your client/boss/CEO has a short-turn meeting that must be planned and you need to scramble to get it done. Goal Setting Part 3: The Trick Is To Have One\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-11.38.14-AM-300x226.png\" alt=\"Does this sound familiar: You’re working on a project when the phone rings. Your client/boss/CEO has a short-turn meeting that must be planned and you need to scramble to get it done. Goal Setting Part 3: The Trick Is To Have One\" width=\"300\" height=\"226\" />When a client (internal or external) asks me to produce something, the first question I ask is, “What’s your goal?” Without one, we can’t begin, or if we do, we’ll spin our wheels and waste resources. What people call a goal and what actually is a goal often are different things.\r\n<h3>Goal Setting Part 3</h3>\r\nThere are three keys to uncovering the true goal of a meeting and creating a S.M.A.R.T goal:\r\n\r\n<strong>1. Ask all key stakeholders what they think the goal is</strong>\r\n\r\nHave each reply in writing, then compare the answers. Chances are strong that you’ll have as many visions as you have replies. Until one voice speaks to the plan, you have chaos.\r\n\r\nIf the person in charge is too many tiers above you, reach out to those on the management levels you can reach. Get them on the same page. Then have the highest person in that food chain get sign-off from the person in charge at the top.\r\n\r\n<strong>2. Make sure everyone understands the cost of any changes</strong>\r\n\r\nFor instance, before sending the venue a contract to sign, you likely let the finance team know what the ramifications are once the venue is booked. (If you or someone in your department isn’t doing this, you’re out of compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley, or <a href=\"https://strategic.events/sarbanes-oxley-act-sox-socks-planners/\">SOX</a>, Act, and need to address that immediately.)\r\n\r\nNext time you send that report, copy the powers that be so that the cost of the decision is understood. If there is any question in their minds about dates, location or other event details, make sure they know that deciding next week instead of now may cost thousands of dollars. This <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategically-building-your-information-pipeline/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">information</a> may motivate them.\r\n\r\nMake sure your deliverables include prices. So if the printer needs artwork by the 1st to do the project at a standard rate but will charge a penalty if artwork arrives late, make sure everyone knows this. When people see the cost of their indecision or procrastination, actions tend to change.\r\n\r\n<strong>3. Send regular topline updates</strong>\r\n\r\nThese should include spending milestones and deadlines and should be sent to anyone with the potential to effect change on the plan. By keeping everyone informed with brief, concise reports, you increase the odds of people paying attention. (If the emails are not read, try not to get frustrated. It’s not about you.)\r\n\r\nOnce you start down this communication and planning path, there are endless opportunities to improve your executive team’s turnaround time, raise awareness levels and hopefully change unhelpful behavior. So, make your goal a S.M.A.R.T one and get the people around you on the same page. Victory is a much nicer work companion than chaos.\r\n\r\nShare your victories and chaos stories in the comment box below and/or at <a href=\"https://twitter.com/SMEChristy\">@SMECHRISTY</a> or <a href=\"https://christy.lamagna@strategic.events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">christy.lamagna@strategic.events.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Goal Setting, The Trick Is To Have One, Goal, Goals, Event Planning, Event Planners, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Plan Your Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://planyourmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-398 size-full\" title=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Plan-Your-Meetings_250.jpg\" alt=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" width=\"250\" height=\"81\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Goal Setting Part 3: The Trick Is To Have One','','inherit','closed','closed','','703-revision-v1','','','2018-02-02 23:03:46','2018-02-02 23:03:46','',703,'https://strategic.events/703-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10064,3,'2018-02-02 23:04:08','2018-02-02 23:04:08','<h2>Goal Setting Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nThis three-part series looks at the ins and outs of goal setting.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-1/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Part 1:</strong></a> Start at the end and you can get anywhere\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-2/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Part 2:</strong></a> S.M.A.R.T. goals get finished first\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-3-trick/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Part 3:</strong></a> The goal is to have one\r\n<h3>Goal Setting Part 1</h3>\r\nMy coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-2570 size-medium\" title=\"My coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated. Goal Setting, Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/istock_000017343609large-make-things-happen-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"My coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated. Goal Setting, Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" />A colleague is developing a new product and trying to narrow down the endless list of options for where to sell it. She’s paralyzed by the scope of choices. She told me she needs more time before going to market.\r\n\r\nA friend is redoing her store’s decor. She just decided to delay the grand reopening because she’s behind schedule. She can’t decide what colors to use, what decor to choose and what kind of “vibe” to create. She has spent hours with designers looking at paint and fabric swatches and after three weeks of searching, has gotten nowhere. The more research she does, the more confused she becomes.\r\n\r\nThese scenarios might seem disparate, but each person has the same problem with the same solution. Chances are, whatever your largest obstacle is right now, you too, have the same problem needing a solution.\r\n\r\nChallenges tend to stem from not having a goal or having a goal without a well-defined action plan. Everything you do is done to achieve a goal. Even mundane tasks are goal-driven: Each time you put gas in your car, you’re achieving a goal. So, why do we forget this essential step when tackling substantial issues?\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft wp-image-736 size-medium\" title=\"My coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated. Goal Setting, Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-11.46.54-AM-300x190.png\" alt=\"My coaching client came to me with what she deemed a huge problem. Her corporate execs believe their events are not providing enough ROI and are wondering whether meetings are a good use of funds. She’s afraid her job might be eliminated. Goal Setting, Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere\" width=\"300\" height=\"190\" />We become fixated on obstacles and lose sight of why we started the journey. That creates inertia, confusion, frustration and self-doubt. All too many of us give up, thinking the problem is insurmountable. The reality is the problem isn’t actually the problem. The problem is that our focus is on the wrong thing. Identifying the true goal is the first step to success. Doing that is sometimes more challenging than we think. We often oversimplify or overcomplicate the process.\r\n\r\n<em>Oversimplifying: You’re drowning at work, putting in late nights and weekend hours. You can’t work harder, but you simply can’t get it all done. You’re exhausted and frustrated. The solution is an assistant, right?</em>\r\n\r\n<em>Maybe not. Further analysis may reveal that you’re a terrible delegater. You may feel out of control when you aren’t in charge of the entire process, which is unrealistic, bad for the team morale and can diminish the final product. Or perhaps you fall into the ‘It’s faster to do it myself than show someone what I want done” syndrome. That’s a never-ending cycle that only you can change.</em>\r\n\r\nIf you’re focused on the symptom (exhaustion from all the hours you’re working), you may be unhappy at work, exhausted and short-tempered, resentful and ready to demand a larger staff. Shift your focus to learning the art of delegating and suddenly things change. Not only do you have more time and a happier team, you’ve let go of the self-induced and misplaced work frustration.\r\n\r\nThe bottom line: Nothing works without a plan. As event PLANNERS we’re expected to have a plan. Event STRATEGISTS always start at the end and build from there. Want to learn how to do that, too? Wednesday’s column will show you how.\r\n\r\nLet’s continue the conversation. Please leave your comments, questions and concerns in the box below and/or find me at @<a href=\"https://twitter.com/SMEChristy\">SMEChristy</a> or at <a href=\"https://christy.lamagna@strategic.events\">christy.lamagna@strategic.events</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Goal Setting, Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere, Goal, Goals, Event Planning, Event Planners, Planners, Strategic Planners, Event Strategists, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Plan Your Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://planyourmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-398 size-full\" title=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Plan-Your-Meetings_250.jpg\" alt=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" width=\"250\" height=\"81\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Goal Setting Part 1: Start At The End And You Can Get Anywhere','','inherit','closed','closed','','699-revision-v1','','','2018-02-02 23:04:08','2018-02-02 23:04:08','',699,'https://strategic.events/699-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10065,3,'2018-02-02 23:04:10','2018-02-02 23:04:10','<h2>Goal Setting Part 2: S.M.A.R.T. Ones Get Finished First</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nThis three-part series looks at the ins and outs of goal setting.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-1/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Part 1:</strong></a> Start at the end and you can get anywhere\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-2/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Part 2:</strong></a> S.M.A.R.T. goals get finished first\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/goal-setting-part-3-trick/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Part 3:</strong></a> The goal is to have a goal\r\n<h3>Goal Setting Part 2</h3>\r\nOften, a chief struggle for planners can be too much work and not enough time. But look closer and you might see that it’s due more to a lack of clarity and less with being understaffed. Not sure what I mean? Keep reading.\r\n\r\nYou likely are familiar with the concept that goals are what helps people set their life direction. We’re taught that goals are important to have, so we set them and set out to conquer the world. If the goals remain elusive and we find ourselves busier and busier, this leads to frustration. The busier we get, the less time we have to spend on accomplishing our goals.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-730\" title=\"Often, a chief struggle for planners can be too much work and not enough time. But look closer and you might see that it’s due more to a lack of clarity and less with being understaffed. Not sure what I mean? Keep reading. Goal Setting Part 2: S.M.A.R.T. Ones Get Finished First\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-11.43.38-AM-300x150.png\" alt=\"Often, a chief struggle for planners can be too much work and not enough time. But look closer and you might see that it’s due more to a lack of clarity and less with being understaffed. Not sure what I mean? Keep reading. Goal Setting Part 2: S.M.A.R.T. Ones Get Finished First\" width=\"356\" height=\"178\" />The truth is that something critical comes before the goal-setting: a PLAN. Without one, very little work can be successfully and purposefully accomplished. Symptoms of a life that lacks a plan include exhaustion, frustration, work overload, stress, disappointment in your personal and professional lives, and a general lack of direction.\r\n\r\nSounds too obvious, right? But pair a plan to a goal and you have a S.M.A.R.T goal. That’s no ordinary goal and it’s virtually bulletproof, if you do the work.\r\n\r\nHere’s the difference between a goal and a S.M.A.R.T goal:\r\n\r\n<strong>Specific.</strong> Clearly identify what you want to achieve. The more specific, the greater your chance of success.\r\n\r\n<strong>Measurable.</strong> What does success look like? Can it be measured in pounds, dollars, hours or inches? Use whatever pertains to your quest.\r\n\r\n<strong>Actionable.</strong> What actions will you take to achieve this goal? In other words: What is the PLAN? Create the steps — how much time, when, doing what, etc.\r\n\r\n<strong>Realistic.</strong> Dreaming big is wonderful but run a reality check before you decide your goal is ready to execute.\r\n\r\n<strong>Timely.</strong> Is this goal attainable in the amount of time you have? You don’t have to achieve it all at once. Make sure you aren’t setting yourself up to fail by aiming too high rather than breaking the process into smaller goals.\r\n\r\nAn example of a goal versus a S.M.A.R.T. goal:\r\n\r\n<strong>Goal:</strong> I’m going to get my work schedule under control.\r\n\r\n<strong>S.M.A.R.T. goal:</strong> I will prioritize my workload and delegate what I don’t need to personally handle, so I can leave the office by 6 p.m. a minimum of three days a week. To do this, I will meet with my team at 8 a.m. every Monday, reassign tasks, train everyone on exactly what is expected and mentor them throughout the process.\r\n\r\nSee the difference? More importantly, live the difference by digging in and creating a S.M.A.R.T goal of your own.\r\n\r\nWe are planners. People count on us. In order to deliver, we have to have our own path cleared and established. So take a look at what’s on your desk. Is the work created because the goals on the projects are unclear? There’s a good chance that it is.\r\n\r\nNot sure how to tackle that monster? Read Thursday’s column.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLet’s continue the conversation. Share your S.M.A.R.T. goals and success stories in the box below and/or find me at <a href=\"https://twitter.com/SMEChristy\">@SMEChristy </a>or at <a href=\"https://Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events\">Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Goal Setting, S.M.A.R.T. Ones Get Finished First, Smart Goals, Goals, Event Planning, Event Planners, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Plan Your Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://planyourmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-398 size-full\" title=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Plan-Your-Meetings_250.jpg\" alt=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" width=\"250\" height=\"81\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Goal Setting Part 2: S.M.A.R.T. Ones Get Finished First','','inherit','closed','closed','','701-revision-v1','','','2018-02-02 23:04:10','2018-02-02 23:04:10','',701,'https://strategic.events/701-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10068,3,'2018-02-05 13:46:11','2018-02-05 13:46:11','[vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517339378115{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]\r\n<h2>Strategic Tips for Planning Your Next Tasting</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nPeople’s palates continue to become increasingly sophisticated and discerning. There are more of us snapping photos of food, enjoying pop-up restaurants and cooking gourmet meals at home (with or without the benefit of the ingredients delivered directly to their door) than ever before. The term ‘foodie,’ which was once reserved for food snobs and the elite, is now a self-proclaimed adjective many of us wear proudly. If you’re new to the world of event food, read on for some helpful strategic tips for <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-event-planning-profession/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planning</a> your next tasting.\r\n\r\n<strong>Food Tasting – An Essential Part of Preplanning</strong>\r\n\r\n<strong><img class=\"alignright wp-image-9888\" title=\"The term ‘foodie,’ which was once reserved for food snobs and the elite, is now a self-proclaimed adjective many of us wear proudly. If you’re new to the world of event food, read on for some helpful strategic tips for planning your next tasting.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/chef-review.jpg\" alt=\"The term ‘foodie,’ which was once reserved for food snobs and the elite, is now a self-proclaimed adjective many of us wear proudly. If you’re new to the world of event food, read on for some helpful strategic tips for planning your next tasting.\" width=\"343\" height=\"228\" /></strong>\r\n\r\nThe change in our relationship to food has been shaped in part by an increased number of people with food sensitivities and/or allergies, a heightened awareness of how food is grown, how animals are raised before coming to market and consciousness about the choices we make and how they affect the planet.\r\n\r\nThrow all those factors into a pot, mix well and then multiply by ten, one hundred or one thousand and that’s the number of hungry attendees you are striving to please at your next event. That’s why strategic planners know that food tastings are an essential component of preplanning. What was once a fun (but important) outing to sample a lot of delicious food in the middle of a workday has become a more involved and serious process.\r\n\r\nStrategic <a href=\"https://strategic.events/why-planners-need-to-get-strategic/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planners</a> remember that everything event-related must be both goal-oriented and designed with the audience in mind. That means choosing plated meals for formal events, family style service for a networking or more social feel, buffets to allow for a flow, etc. Strategists also know that the menu isn’t about their individual preferences, but that of the audience. So, if you are a light eater planning for an audience of hearty and hungry men, think substantial foods. Or, if you love chocolate you still need to consider a citrus flavored sorbet or a warm pie for the perfect ending to the meal.\r\n\r\nFor those of you who aren’t doing tastings at all, keep reading. Hopefully, you’ll be persuaded to add them to your SOPs. If you are scheduling tastings but haven’t upped your game to the level of a <a href=\"https://strategic.events/how-to-become-strategic-planner-change-future/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategic planner</a>, here are a few strategic tips for planning your next tasting:\r\n\r\n1. Remember all those photos people take of food? Your audience is now looking at their plates with a practiced eye. Food presentation is noticed and there is an expectation of creativity. Make sure what you are serving is colorful, three dimensional and carefully plated. A slab of prime rib au jus with a lump of mashed potatoes isn’t going to cut it.\r\n\r\n2. At what temperature is the food best enjoyed? Is your program predictable enough that the food you’re choosing can be served at its ideal temperature? If you have erratic content, then filet mignon or other temperature sensitive food may not be the right choice.\r\n\r\n3. What is the chef creating for vegans and vegetarians? What menu options are gluten-free? Make sure you are tasting those items as well. What was once the exception is becoming the norm, and everyone deserves the same dining experience. Make sure guests with particular food needs or requests are getting the same attention.\r\n\r\n4. Conduct your tasting on a prototype of the table you’ll be using. That means the linens, plates, and centerpieces should be there. The table should be set for the anticipated number of guests per table and with the chairs you’ll be using. This is the moment you realize the colors clash, the florals are too strongly scented, the napkins don’t do their job well enough, the centerpiece is too high for comfortable conversation or the table is too crowded to cut the meat.\r\n\r\n5. Think about not just what you are eating but how easy or difficult it is to eat it in the time being allotted. If you spent two hours doing a tasting for a meal that you are giving attendees 30 minutes to eat, you need to rethink your plan.\r\n\r\nFood is an integral component of most onsite experiences. Make sure that your tasting factors in the many components of dining so you can deliver beyond expectations.\r\n\r\nWant 10 more strategic tips for planning your next tasting?<strong> </strong>Click<strong> <a href=\"https://strategic.events/10-strategic-tips-for-planning-your-next-tasting/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">HERE</a>.</strong>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.corporateeventnews.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-7555 \" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/logo_cen_2.png\" alt=\"Corporate Event News Logo\" width=\"265\" height=\"84\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Strategic Tips for Planning Your Next Tasting','','inherit','closed','closed','','9887-revision-v1','','','2018-02-05 13:46:11','2018-02-05 13:46:11','',9887,'https://strategic.events/9887-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10069,3,'2018-02-05 14:38:27','2018-02-05 14:38:27','[mk_page_section bg_color=\"#ffffff\" border_color=\"#ffffff\" full_width=\"true\" padding_top=\"0\" padding_bottom=\"0\" top_shape_color=\"#ffffff\" bottom_shape_color=\"#ffffff\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column border_color=\"#ffffff\" css=\".vc_custom_1473177697729{margin: 10px !important;}\"][mk_layerslider id=\"7\"][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section bg_color=\"#ffffff\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][mk_fancy_title tag_name=\"h1\" color=\"#d6a461\" size=\"30\" line_height=\"97\" font_weight=\"bold\" txt_transform=\"none\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif\" font_type=\"safefont\"]MAKE YOUR VISION A REALITY[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1516503168238{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces goal driven, corporate events that integrate your company\'s sales and marketing message into every aspect of the program. We create experiences that leave your target audience thinking, feeling and remembering the information that is most important to you. With a worldwide scope and an infinite amount of talent, creativity and energy, SME is a global corporate event management company that redefines excellence in everything we do.\r\n\r\nSupporting your sales goals with corporate events is so much more than executing logistics or hosting the same sales meeting or incentive trip year after year. Our strategic planning experts will take your vision and build a comprehensive plan to achieve your goals, drive your sales cycle and make your programs more cost efficient. And we’re told that we are delightful to work with. How great is that?[/vc_column_text][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#211551\" size=\"25\" font_weight=\"bold\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"none\"]\r\n<h2>Discover Strategic Meetings &amp; Events</h2>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517602256063{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]\r\n\r\n[gallery size=\"full\" mobx_row_height=\"600\" link=\"file\" ids=\"3271\"]\r\n\r\n[/vc_column_text][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#211551\" size=\"25\" font_weight=\"bold\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"none\"]\r\n<h2>Comprehensive Corporate Event Management</h2>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text]Strategic Meetings &amp; Events professional planning experts become your extended team. Our sole focus is your success, specifically as you define it. The process is often filled with long hours, a myriad of changes and tons of pressure. Why not work with a team who thinks of everything, tracks the details, manages your spend and keeps you smiling even when you’re exhausted?[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text align=\"center\" animation=\"fade-in\"]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https://strategic.events/category/news-flash\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">News Flash</a></h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][mk_blog style=\"grid\" column=\"1\" image_size=\"full\" post_count=\"3\" disable_meta=\"false\" pagination=\"false\" cat=\"493\"][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"30\"][mk_social_networks size=\"medium\" style=\"simple-rounded\" border_color=\"#000050\" bg_color=\"#000050\" bg_hover_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_hover_color=\"#000050\" align=\"center\" facebook=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" twitter=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" pinterest=\"https://www.pinterest.com/strategicmeetingsevents/\" instagram=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" linkedin=\"https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-meetings-&amp;-events\" youtube=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsuJ-F1Ot1zSc1ccpj_DzXA\"][vc_wp_search][vc_separator][mk_padding_divider size=\"15\"][vc_single_image image=\"1125\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" css_animation=\"appear\" link=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/tastebuzz/\"][mk_blog style=\"grid\" column=\"1\" image_size=\"medium\" post_count=\"1\" excerpt_length=\"0\" pagination=\"false\" cat=\"40\"][mk_custom_sidebar sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][vc_row fullwidth=\"true\" css=\".vc_custom_1469113826042{background-color: #211551 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dimension=\"flat\" size=\"large\" url=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/contact-strategic-meetings-events/\" target=\"_blank\" align=\"center\" fullwidth=\"true\" margin_bottom=\"6\" margin_right=\"0\" bg_color=\"#211551\" btn_hover_bg=\"#d6a461\" btn_hover_txt_color=\"#211551\" action=\"``mailto:Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events``\" type=\"``submit``\" value=\"``Send\"]Contact us to discover the perfect fit for your company’s event goals.[/mk_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]','Strategic Meetings & Events | Global Corporate Event Management','','inherit','closed','closed','','7-revision-v1','','','2018-02-05 14:38:27','2018-02-05 14:38:27','',7,'https://strategic.events/7-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10075,3,'2018-02-05 16:13:48','2018-02-05 16:13:48','','spm_fb_new','','inherit','open','closed','','spm_fb_new','','','2018-02-05 16:13:48','2018-02-05 16:13:48','',7,'https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/spm_fb_new.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(10076,3,'2018-02-05 16:14:14','2018-02-05 16:14:14','','spm_li_new','','inherit','open','closed','','spm_li_new','','','2018-02-05 16:14:14','2018-02-05 16:14:14','',7,'https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/spm_li_new.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(10077,3,'2018-02-05 16:16:57','2018-02-05 16:16:57','[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1511990244219{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]\r\n<h1>SME\'s Social Media Channels</h1>\r\n<h2>Check out the below feeds and connect with us!</h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=\"1/2\"][mk_fancy_title font_family=\"none\"]<a href=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8063\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/2475.new-instagram-text-logo.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"104\" /></a>[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1511994101680{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"][fts_instagram instagram_id=2012979101 pics_count=10 type=user width=100 height=1100px profile_wrap=yes popup=no profile_photo=no profile_stats=yes profile_name=yes profile_description=no super_gallery=yes columns=2 force_columns=no space_between_photos=1 icon_size=65px hide_date_likes_comments=no loadmore=autoscroll loadmore_count=5 loadmore_btn_maxwidth=300px loadmore_btn_margin=10px][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/2\"][mk_fancy_title font_family=\"none\"]<a href=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8065\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/tech-facebook-1024x202.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"79\" /></a>[/mk_fancy_title][mk_padding_divider size=\"30\"][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1511993345476{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"][fts_facebook type=page id=104662352967791 posts=4 title=yes title_align=left description=no show_media=bottom show_thumbnail=no show_date=no show_name=no words=100 popup=yes grid=yes posts_displayed=page_only image_stack_animation=no colmn_width=250px space_between_posts=5px show_follow_btn_where=below_title like_option_align=left like_box_width=500px hide_like_option=no hide_comments_popup=yes loadmore=button loadmore_btn_maxwidth=300px loadmore_btn_margin=10px][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=\"1/2\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"25\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"25\"][mk_fancy_title font_family=\"none\"]<a href=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8091\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/7194920_orig.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"85\" /></a>[/mk_fancy_title][mk_padding_divider size=\"5\"][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517847414872{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"][fts_twitter twitter_name=SME_Events tweets_count=5 twitter_height=500px cover_photo=yes stats_bar=yes show_retweets=yes show_replies=no grid=yes popup=yes loadmore=button loadmore_count=1 loadmore_btn_maxwidth=300px loadmore_btn_margin=10px colmn_width=250 space_between_posts=5][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/2\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"25\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"25\"][mk_fancy_title font_family=\"none\"]<a href=\"https://www.pinterest.com/strategicmeetingsevents/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8093\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/pinterest_logo_red.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"86\" /></a>[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1515444909990{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"][fts_pinterest type=single_board_pins pinterest_name=strategicmeetingsevents board_id=event-planning-resources 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We create experiences that leave your target audience thinking, feeling and remembering the information that is most important to you. With a worldwide scope and an infinite amount of talent, creativity and energy, SME is a global corporate event management company that redefines excellence in everything we do.\r\n\r\nSupporting your sales goals with corporate events is so much more than executing logistics or hosting the same sales meeting or incentive trip year after year. Our strategic planning experts will take your vision and build a comprehensive plan to achieve your goals, drive your sales cycle and make your programs more cost efficient. And we’re told that we are delightful to work with. How great is that?[/vc_column_text][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#211551\" size=\"25\" font_weight=\"bold\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"none\"]\r\n<h2>Discover Strategic Meetings &amp; Events</h2>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517602256063{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]\r\n\r\n[gallery size=\"full\" mobx_row_height=\"600\" link=\"file\" ids=\"3271\"]\r\n\r\n[/vc_column_text][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#211551\" size=\"25\" font_weight=\"bold\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"none\"]\r\n<h2>Comprehensive Corporate Event Management</h2>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text]Strategic Meetings &amp; Events professional planning experts become your extended team. Our sole focus is your success, specifically as you define it. The process is often filled with long hours, a myriad of changes and tons of pressure. Why not work with a team who thinks of everything, tracks the details, manages your spend and keeps you smiling even when you’re exhausted?[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text align=\"center\" animation=\"fade-in\"]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https://strategic.events/category/news-flash\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">News Flash</a></h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][mk_blog style=\"grid\" column=\"1\" image_size=\"full\" post_count=\"1\" disable_meta=\"false\" pagination=\"false\" cat=\"493\" exclude_post_format=\"\"][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"30\"][mk_social_networks size=\"medium\" style=\"simple-rounded\" border_color=\"#000050\" bg_color=\"#000050\" bg_hover_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_hover_color=\"#000050\" align=\"center\" facebook=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" twitter=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" pinterest=\"https://www.pinterest.com/strategicmeetingsevents/\" instagram=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" linkedin=\"https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-meetings-&amp;-events\" youtube=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsuJ-F1Ot1zSc1ccpj_DzXA\"][vc_wp_search][vc_separator][mk_padding_divider size=\"15\"][vc_single_image image=\"1125\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" css_animation=\"appear\" link=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/tastebuzz/\"][mk_blog style=\"grid\" column=\"1\" image_size=\"medium\" post_count=\"1\" excerpt_length=\"0\" pagination=\"false\" cat=\"40\"][vc_single_image image=\"10074\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" link=\"https://strategic.events/sme-social-media-connect/\"][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner css=\".vc_custom_1517845467412{background-color: #000050 !important;}\"][mk_fancy_title color=\"#ffffff\" size=\"28\" margin_bottom=\"0\" font_family=\"none\" align=\"center\"]\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">Strategic Planning</span>\r\n<span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">Movement</span></p>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text align=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1517845515342{margin-bottom: 0px !important;padding-right: 5px !important;padding-left: 5px !important;}\"]\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">By banding together and becoming strategic in our professional vision, brand and goals, we will set the stage to change the way we are perceived, meetings are held and the role we play in their creation.</span></strong></p>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1517845539425{background-color: #000050 !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"10075\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" 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dimension=\"flat\" size=\"large\" url=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/contact-strategic-meetings-events/\" target=\"_blank\" align=\"center\" fullwidth=\"true\" margin_bottom=\"6\" margin_right=\"0\" bg_color=\"#211551\" btn_hover_bg=\"#d6a461\" btn_hover_txt_color=\"#211551\" action=\"``mailto:Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events``\" type=\"``submit``\" value=\"``Send\"]Contact us to discover the perfect fit for your company’s event goals.[/mk_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]','Strategic Meetings & Events | Global Corporate Event Management','','inherit','closed','closed','','7-revision-v1','','','2018-02-05 18:22:48','2018-02-05 18:22:48','',7,'https://strategic.events/7-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10082,3,'2018-02-05 22:53:15','2018-02-05 22:53:15','[mk_page_section bg_color=\"#211551\" bg_stretch=\"true\" min_height=\"20\" padding_top=\"0\" padding_bottom=\"0\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" 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href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/tastebuzz/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8433\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/tastebuzz-the-new-flavor.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"181\" /></a>[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517871191149{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]\r\n<h1><span style=\"color: #333333;\">Insta-</span><span style=\"color: #fab714;\">licious</span></h1>\r\n<h2><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Do you love taking pictures of food? Well then, as a fellow foodie, you\'ll be sure to love our Insta-licious</strong><strong><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> photos! Be sure to share your favorite mouth-watering bites and the places they were enjoyed using #LookWhatIJustAte and tag us</span> <span style=\"color: #fab714;\"><a style=\"color: #fab714;\" href=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-cke-saved-href=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\">@strategic.events</a></span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">!</span></strong></span></h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=\"20px\"][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1513096669647{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"][fts_instagram instagram_id=LookWhatIJustAte pics_count=20 type=hashtag popup=no super_gallery=yes columns=4 force_columns=no space_between_photos=1px icon_size=65px hide_date_likes_comments=no loadmore=button loadmore_count=5 loadmore_btn_maxwidth=300px loadmore_btn_margin=10px][/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=\"15px\"][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/tastebuzz-buttons.png\" 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22:53:15','2018-02-05 22:53:15','',8650,'https://strategic.events/8650-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10083,3,'2018-02-05 22:54:01','2018-02-05 22:54:01','[mk_page_section bg_color=\"#211551\" bg_stretch=\"true\" min_height=\"20\" padding_top=\"0\" padding_bottom=\"0\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#d6a461\" size=\"25\" line_height=\"50\" margin_top=\"20\" margin_bottom=\"0\" font_family=\"Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif\" font_type=\"safefont\" align=\"right\"]TASTE BUZZ[/mk_fancy_title][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#ffffff\" size=\"12\" letter_spacing=\"2\" margin_bottom=\"0\" font_family=\"Open+Sans\" font_type=\"google\" align=\"right\"]HOME &gt;&gt; TASTE BUZZ[/mk_fancy_title][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][vc_row css=\".vc_custom_1474997425162{background-color: #ffffff !important;}\"][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][vc_empty_space height=\"40px\"][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1513200103224{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]<img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8830\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/instalicious.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"485\" height=\"356\" />[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1516548068871{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]<a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/tastebuzz/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8433\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/tastebuzz-the-new-flavor.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"181\" /></a>[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517871232918{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]\r\n<h1><span style=\"color: #333333;\">Insta-</span><span style=\"color: #fab714;\">licious</span></h1>\r\n<h2><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Do you love taking pictures of food? Well then, as a fellow foodie, you\'ll be sure to love our Insta-licious photos! <span style=\"color: #000000;\">Be sure to share your favorite mouth-watering bites and the places they were enjoyed using #LookWhatIJustAte and tag us</span> <span style=\"color: #fab714;\"><a style=\"color: #fab714;\" href=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-cke-saved-href=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\">@strategic.events</a></span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">!</span></strong></span></h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=\"20px\"][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1513096669647{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"][fts_instagram instagram_id=LookWhatIJustAte pics_count=20 type=hashtag popup=no super_gallery=yes columns=4 force_columns=no space_between_photos=1px icon_size=65px hide_date_likes_comments=no loadmore=button loadmore_count=5 loadmore_btn_maxwidth=300px loadmore_btn_margin=10px][/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space 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youtube=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsuJ-F1Ot1zSc1ccpj_DzXA\"][vc_raw_js]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[/vc_raw_js][/vc_column][/vc_row]','Insta-licious','','inherit','closed','closed','','8650-revision-v1','','','2018-02-05 22:54:01','2018-02-05 22:54:01','',8650,'https://strategic.events/8650-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10084,3,'2018-02-05 22:56:18','2018-02-05 22:56:18','[mk_page_section bg_color=\"#211551\" bg_stretch=\"true\" min_height=\"20\" padding_top=\"0\" padding_bottom=\"0\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#d6a461\" size=\"25\" line_height=\"50\" margin_top=\"20\" margin_bottom=\"0\" font_family=\"Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif\" font_type=\"safefont\" align=\"right\"]TASTE BUZZ[/mk_fancy_title][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#ffffff\" size=\"12\" letter_spacing=\"2\" margin_bottom=\"0\" font_family=\"Open+Sans\" font_type=\"google\" align=\"right\"]HOME &gt;&gt; TASTE BUZZ[/mk_fancy_title][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][vc_row css=\".vc_custom_1474997425162{background-color: #ffffff !important;}\"][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][vc_empty_space height=\"40px\"][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1513200103224{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]<img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8830\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/instalicious.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"485\" height=\"356\" />[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1516548068871{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]<a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/tastebuzz/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8433\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/tastebuzz-the-new-flavor.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"181\" /></a>[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517871375537{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]\r\n<h1><span style=\"color: #333333;\">Insta-</span><span style=\"color: #fab714;\">licious</span></h1>\r\n<h2><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Do you love taking pictures of food? Well then, as a fellow foodie, you\'ll be sure to love our Insta-licious photos!<strong> <span style=\"color: #000000;\">Be sure to share your favorite mouth-watering bites and the places they were enjoyed using #LookWhatIJustAte and tag us</span> <span style=\"color: #fab714;\"><a style=\"color: #fab714;\" href=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-cke-saved-href=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\">@strategic.events</a></span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">!</span></strong></span></h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=\"20px\"][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1513096669647{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"][fts_instagram instagram_id=LookWhatIJustAte pics_count=20 type=hashtag popup=no super_gallery=yes columns=4 force_columns=no space_between_photos=1px icon_size=65px hide_date_likes_comments=no loadmore=button loadmore_count=5 loadmore_btn_maxwidth=300px loadmore_btn_margin=10px][/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space 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22:56:18','2018-02-05 22:56:18','',8650,'https://strategic.events/8650-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10085,3,'2018-02-06 14:06:24','2018-02-06 14:06:24','<h2>Comfort And Meaning: Holiday Trends</h2>\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM, and James S. Rota</h3>\nThis season’s forecast for galas has technology and world travel playing influential roles. Popular themes like “A Winter Wonderland” are being updated with interactive elements like living chandeliers that pour guests a glass of holiday cheer as they enter the room; rolling dessert towers decorated to match the theme; and high-energy dance performers. And let’s not forget, nothing screams holiday trends like the sounds of the season. Karaoke, anyone?\n\nComfort is trending when it comes to creating places for your holiday guests to relax and gather. Use what your venue has and build around it. If there’s a fireplace, reserve it for a Norman Rockwell-style space with wingback chairs and plush pillows in holiday colors.\n\nSave room in your budget for lighting. Nothing is more magical than a room with specialty lighting. A good lighting designer or AV company can provide up lighting that adds color to the room. A few moving lights bring energy to the dance floor. Festival lights on the ceiling keep things whimsical and unexpected, so why not go even further with snow falling over the dance floor? Many AV companies now have this technology.\n\nIt’s the season for goodwill too, so consider partnering with charities to raise awareness and give gifts. Adding a charity component with a corporate goal fosters teamwork, camaraderie, and gives purpose to the event.\n\nIf you do use your holiday event to collect donations for a charity or food bank, advertise the cause throughout the pre-party process to build interest and awareness. Add an element of competition, set department goals and give awards when milestones are hit. Awards don’t need to require money or prizes, they can be an honorary title. Don’t overcomplicate it.\n\nAfterward, post-holiday letters with comments from the recipients can be sent to attendees detailing how much money was raised. These are just a few ideas to get you going. Be inspired and free. Anything is possible. Remember, it’s the most magical time of the year.\n\n<span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Food and Beverage</strong></span>\n\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-2.40.37-PM.png\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-739 size-medium\" title=\"This season’s forecast for galas has technology and world travel playing influential roles. Popular themes like “A Winter Wonderland” are in holiday trends.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-2.40.37-PM-300x199.png\" alt=\"This season’s forecast for galas has technology and world travel playing influential roles. Popular themes like “A Winter Wonderland” are in holiday trends.\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>Think global cuisine when wining and dining guests. Create environments that support an “It’s a Small World” theme, for example. Take guests to the South Pacific for cocktails with a hula-attired waitstaff, then whisk them to the Mediterranean for a family-style dinner to foster warmth and cheer.\n\nFor dessert, try a French boulangerie patisserie with bistro tables. Replace plated dinners with tasting stations that give guests options and the freedom to socialize. Try a crostini bar with farm-fresh toppings; a pretzel bar with international mustards and sweet toppings; a cheese fondue fountain.\n\nFor libations, go old school with specialty bars offering classic whiskey cocktails with a twist — like whiskey sour slushes or maple oldfashioneds. Craft beers are another option.\n\nNo matter what your theme is, remember that the party is for the guests. It sounds basic, but too often planners get caught up in what they like and forget their audience. This is especially important to keep in mind if you are gluten sensitive or a vegetarian.\n\nDitto with alcohol. If you love red wine, but your CEO likes bourbon, make sure you focus primarily on what the masses drink and plan accordingly. Pay careful attention to how you pay for your alcohol — per hour, per person or bottle service. Knowing your group’s consumption history will steer you to the right answer.\n\n<span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>All in the Timing</strong></span>\n\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-2.42.50-PM.png\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-742 size-medium\" title=\"This season’s forecast for galas has technology and world travel playing influential roles. Popular themes like “A Winter Wonderland” are in holiday trends.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-2.42.50-PM-300x232.png\" alt=\"This season’s forecast for galas has technology and world travel playing influential roles. Popular themes like “A Winter Wonderland” are in holiday trends.\" width=\"300\" height=\"232\" /></a>Pay attention to the day and date of the party. Check the organization’s calendar to avoid conflicts like conferences. Be sensitive to schedules, too. If your guests would prefer something during work hours, celebrate at the end of the day, perhaps in-house. Or maybe the answer is a weekend event that is family-friendly.\n\nAll too often, holiday expectations are colored by television, movies or an imagined fantasy of perfection. That places a tremendous and unnecessary burden on the planner. Keep the goal in mind: The event is about celebrating relationships, accomplishments, blessings and camaraderie. If guests leave happy and grateful, you’ve achieved success.\n\nDonate leftovers to those in need. If your venue prohibits this, you can sometimes work around it by asking that leftovers be packaged to-go and do the handoff yourself. Give flowers to a hospital, nursing home or veterans facility.\n\n<span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Social Media</strong></span>\n\nThis gift that keeps on giving. Create pre-party buzz with a holiday trivia game. Fashion questions based on holiday songs, classic movies or random trivia like how many years a fruitcake can be stored before it goes bad (answer: 25).\n\nSocial media also makes capturing and sharing moments from a memorable party easy. Use imaginative hashtags. Be clever but make sure in advance that no one else is using them. Think along the lines of #Scrooged, #Prancer, #Mistletoe, #HoHoHo and #NaughtyorNice.\n\nUse a virtual photo album format. Not sure how to create one? No worries. There are plenty of sites that make creating your online album a snap. We often use <a href=\"http://www.winsite.com/search/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">winsite.com</a> and <a href=\"http://cutephp.com./\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">cutephp.com.</a>\n\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-2.43.52-PM.png\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-743 size-medium\" title=\"This season’s forecast for galas has technology and world travel playing influential roles. Popular themes like “A Winter Wonderland” are in holiday trends for Facebook.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-2.43.52-PM-300x300.png\" alt=\"This season’s forecast for galas has technology and world travel playing influential roles. Popular themes like “A Winter Wonderland” are in holiday trends for Facebook.\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a>When planning your event’s room layout consider your social media strategy. Leave space for photo opportunities and create an organized flow that lets guests line up, select props, pose, post and exit without causing a bottleneck.\n\nIf you use an imaginative backdrop and provide seasonal props, your guests will want selfies they can post directly to social media. Think elf hats, reindeer antlers, Santa’s beard, ornament ear rings, Rudolph’s red nose. Sites such as Life Your Way, 143 Photo Booth and Panic Printables on Etsy.com offer ideas and patterns for inexpensive props.\n\nThink about streaming the images live on a large screen, if your budget permits. Photo booths are still popular but, think about spending your budget differently this year and invest in an Instagram printer. It takes the tedious work out of printing Instagram photos.\n\nRemember that sharing is a key part of the holidays, so keep that messaging front and center. If you partner with a charitable organization, work with them to promote to both audiences. A co-branded build lets people be proud of their efforts and contributions. Create a group challenge such as “Fill Santa’s sled with unwrapped toys by a particular target date” or “Decorate a tree with donated gift certificates” to give to families in need.\n\nThe goal is to bring attention to your organization AND to inspire others to join your efforts. If using social media can help make the holiday season brighter for others, those posts, links and tweets will truly be something to celebrate.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe’d love to hear all about your holiday celebration ideas, the good and bad. Please use the comment box below and/or send your feedback to <a href=\"https://twitter.com/SMEChristy\">@SMEChristy </a>or <a href=\"https://Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events\">Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events</a>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<em>Tags: Comfort And Meaning Holiday Trends, Holidays, Event Planners, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Plan Your Meetings</em>\n\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://planyourmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-398 size-full\" title=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Plan-Your-Meetings_250.jpg\" alt=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" width=\"250\" height=\"81\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout][vc_raw_js]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[/vc_raw_js]','Comfort And Meaning: Holiday Trends','','inherit','closed','closed','','697-autosave-v1','','','2018-02-06 14:06:24','2018-02-06 14:06:24','',697,'https://strategic.events/697-autosave-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10086,3,'2018-02-06 14:09:24','2018-02-06 14:09:24','<h2>Comfort And Meaning: Holiday Trends</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM, and James S. Rota</h3>\r\nThis season’s forecast for galas has technology and world travel playing influential roles. Popular themes like “A Winter Wonderland” are being updated with interactive elements like living chandeliers that pour guests a glass of holiday cheer as they enter the room; rolling dessert towers decorated to match the theme; and high-energy dance performers. And let’s not forget, nothing screams holiday trends like the sounds of the season. Karaoke, anyone?\r\n\r\nComfort is trending when it comes to creating places for your holiday guests to relax and gather. Use what your venue has and build around it. If there’s a fireplace, reserve it for a Norman Rockwell-style space with wingback chairs and plush pillows in holiday colors.\r\n\r\nSave room in your budget for lighting. Nothing is more magical than a room with specialty lighting. A good lighting designer or AV company can provide up lighting that adds color to the room. A few moving lights bring energy to the dance floor. Festival lights on the ceiling keep things whimsical and unexpected, so why not go even further with snow falling over the dance floor? Many AV companies now have this technology.\r\n\r\nIt’s the season for goodwill too, so consider partnering with charities to raise awareness and give gifts. Adding a charity component with a corporate goal fosters teamwork, camaraderie, and gives purpose to the event.\r\n\r\nIf you do use your holiday event to collect donations for a charity or food bank, advertise the cause throughout the pre-party process to build interest and awareness. Add an element of competition, set department goals and give awards when milestones are hit. Awards don’t need to require money or prizes, they can be an honorary title. Don’t overcomplicate it.\r\n\r\nAfterward, post-holiday letters with comments from the recipients can be sent to attendees detailing how much money was raised. These are just a few ideas to get you going. Be inspired and free. Anything is possible. Remember, it’s the most magical time of the year.\r\n\r\n<span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Food and Beverage</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft wp-image-739 size-medium\" title=\"This season’s forecast for galas has technology and world travel playing influential roles. Popular themes like “A Winter Wonderland” are being updated with interactive elements like living chandeliers that pour guests a glass of holiday cheer as they enter the room; Comfort and Meaning: Holiday Trends\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-2.40.37-PM-300x199.png\" alt=\"This season’s forecast for galas has technology and world travel playing influential roles. Popular themes like “A Winter Wonderland” are being updated with interactive elements like living chandeliers that pour guests a glass of holiday cheer as they enter the room; Comfort and Meaning: Holiday Trends\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" />Think global cuisine when wining and dining guests. Create environments that support an “It’s a Small World” theme, for example. Take guests to the South Pacific for cocktails with a hula-attired waitstaff, then whisk them to the Mediterranean for a family-style dinner to foster warmth and cheer.\r\n\r\nFor dessert, try a French boulangerie patisserie with bistro tables. Replace plated dinners with tasting stations that give guests options and the freedom to socialize. Try a crostini bar with farm-fresh toppings; a pretzel bar with international mustards and sweet toppings; a cheese fondue fountain.\r\n\r\nFor libations, go old school with specialty bars offering classic whiskey cocktails with a twist — like whiskey sour slushes or maple oldfashioneds. Craft beers are another option.\r\n\r\nNo matter what your theme is, remember that the party is for the guests. It sounds basic, but too often planners get caught up in what they like and forget their audience. This is especially important to keep in mind if you are gluten sensitive or a vegetarian.\r\n\r\nDitto with alcohol. If you love red wine, but your CEO likes bourbon, make sure you focus primarily on what the masses drink and plan accordingly. Pay careful attention to how you pay for your alcohol — per hour, per person or bottle service. Knowing your group’s consumption history will steer you to the right answer.\r\n\r\n<span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>All in the Timing</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-742 size-medium\" title=\"This season’s forecast for galas has technology and world travel playing influential roles. Popular themes like “A Winter Wonderland” are being updated with interactive elements like living chandeliers that pour guests a glass of holiday cheer as they enter the room; Comfort and Meaning: Holiday Trends\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-2.42.50-PM-300x232.png\" alt=\"This season’s forecast for galas has technology and world travel playing influential roles. Popular themes like “A Winter Wonderland” are being updated with interactive elements like living chandeliers that pour guests a glass of holiday cheer as they enter the room; Comfort and Meaning: Holiday Trends\" width=\"300\" height=\"232\" />Pay attention to the day and date of the party. Check the organization’s calendar to avoid conflicts like conferences. Be sensitive to schedules, too. If your guests would prefer something during work hours, celebrate at the end of the day, perhaps in-house. Or maybe the answer is a weekend event that is family-friendly.\r\n\r\nAll too often, holiday expectations are colored by television, movies or an imagined fantasy of perfection. That places a tremendous and unnecessary burden on the planner. Keep the goal in mind: The event is about celebrating relationships, accomplishments, blessings and camaraderie. If guests leave happy and grateful, you’ve achieved success.\r\n\r\nDonate leftovers to those in need. If your venue prohibits this, you can sometimes work around it by asking that leftovers be packaged to-go and do the handoff yourself. Give flowers to a hospital, nursing home or veterans facility.\r\n\r\n<span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Social Media</strong></span>\r\n\r\nThis gift that keeps on giving. Create pre-party buzz with a holiday trivia game. Fashion questions based on holiday songs, classic movies or random trivia like how many years a fruitcake can be stored before it goes bad (answer: 25).\r\n\r\nSocial media also makes capturing and sharing moments from a memorable party easy. Use imaginative hashtags. Be clever but make sure in advance that no one else is using them. Think along the lines of #Scrooged, #Prancer, #Mistletoe, #HoHoHo and #NaughtyorNice.\r\n\r\nUse a virtual photo album format. Not sure how to create one? No worries. There are plenty of sites that make creating your online album a snap. We often use <a href=\"http://www.winsite.com/search/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">winsite.com</a> and <a href=\"http://cutephp.com./\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">cutephp.com.</a>\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft wp-image-743 size-medium\" title=\"This season’s forecast for galas has technology and world travel playing influential roles. Popular themes like “A Winter Wonderland” are being updated with interactive elements like living chandeliers that pour guests a glass of holiday cheer as they enter the room; Comfort and Meaning: Holiday Trends\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Screen-Shot-2016-04-26-at-2.43.52-PM-300x300.png\" alt=\"This season’s forecast for galas has technology and world travel playing influential roles. Popular themes like “A Winter Wonderland” are being updated with interactive elements like living chandeliers that pour guests a glass of holiday cheer as they enter the room; Comfort and Meaning: Holiday Trends\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" />When planning your event’s room layout consider your social media strategy. Leave space for photo opportunities and create an organized flow that lets guests line up, select props, pose, post and exit without causing a bottleneck.\r\n\r\nIf you use an imaginative backdrop and provide seasonal props, your guests will want selfies they can post directly to social media. Think elf hats, reindeer antlers, Santa’s beard, ornament ear rings, Rudolph’s red nose. Sites such as Life Your Way, 143 Photo Booth and Panic Printables on Etsy.com offer ideas and patterns for inexpensive props.\r\n\r\nThink about streaming the images live on a large screen, if your budget permits. Photo booths are still popular but, think about spending your budget differently this year and invest in an Instagram printer. It takes the tedious work out of printing Instagram photos.\r\n\r\nRemember that sharing is a key part of the holidays, so keep that messaging front and center. If you partner with a charitable organization, work with them to promote to both audiences. A co-branded build lets people be proud of their efforts and contributions. Create a group challenge such as “Fill Santa’s sled with unwrapped toys by a particular target date” or “Decorate a tree with donated gift certificates” to give to families in need.\r\n\r\nThe goal is to bring attention to your organization AND to inspire others to join your efforts. If using social media can help make the holiday season brighter for others, those posts, links and tweets will truly be something to celebrate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe’d love to hear all about your holiday celebration ideas, the good and bad. Please use the comment box below and/or send your feedback to <a href=\"https://twitter.com/SMEChristy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@SMEChristy </a>or <a href=\"mailto:Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Comfort And Meaning Holiday Trends, Holidays, Event Planners, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Plan Your Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://planyourmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-398 size-full\" title=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Plan-Your-Meetings_250.jpg\" alt=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" width=\"250\" height=\"81\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Comfort And Meaning: Holiday Trends','','inherit','closed','closed','','697-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 14:09:24','2018-02-06 14:09:24','',697,'https://strategic.events/697-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10087,3,'2018-02-06 14:16:07','2018-02-06 14:16:07','<h2>A Job Interview Review: 8 Do\'s And 8 Don\'ts</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM, and James S. Rota</h3>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-2540 size-medium\" title=\"After several successful positions in the corporate world, we each chose to become entrepreneurs. One of our many roles as CEOs is to interview potential hires during a job interview. A Job Interview Review: 8 Do\'s And 8 Don\'ts\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/I93PW8NE0F-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"After several successful positions in the corporate world, we each chose to become entrepreneurs. One of our many roles as CEOs is to interview potential hires during a job interview. A Job Interview Review: 8 Do\'s And 8 Don\'ts\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" />After several successful positions in the corporate world, we each chose to become entrepreneurs. One of our many roles as CEOs is to interview potential hires during a job interview.\r\n\r\nThe stories resulting from those interviews could fill volumes; some good, some painfully bad. Since many people use the summer to polish their resumes and set their sights on new career opportunities, we’re sharing a list of do’s and don’ts.\r\n<h2><strong>DO</strong></h2>\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li><strong>Show up prepared.</strong> Find out as much as you can about the organization and its culture. The right job is a combination of responsibilities and the environment in which you are working. If one is off, nothing works.</li>\r\n 	<li><strong>Continue that thought.</strong> Is the company privately or publicly held? If it’s public, is it traded on the market? How are its financials? Have there been newsworthy happenings in the past three months? Know what they are.</li>\r\n 	<li><strong>Look closely at the position’s job requirements.</strong> Come prepared with specific examples of how you meet, if not exceed each.</li>\r\n 	<li><strong>Be your authentic self.</strong> If you’re pretending to be the person they want, a good interviewer will sense it immediately.</li>\r\n 	<li><strong>Dress in harmony with the company’s dress code and environment.</strong> If you’re interviewing for a creative position use that talent to express yourself in a creatively professional but not flamboyant way.</li>\r\n 	<li><strong>Arrive at least 15 minutes early.</strong> This gives you time to check in, take a few deep breaths and compose yourself. Do a test run the day before to ensure that you know the route.</li>\r\n 	<li><strong>First impressions are important.</strong> This is true whether you’re talking to the receptionist or the CEO. What you say and how you say it matters. Always offer a confident handshake and keep eye contact.</li>\r\n 	<li><strong>Listen. Then speak.</strong> All too often people simply wait for a break in the conversation to say what is on their mind and don’t listen to what is being said.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<h2><strong>DON’T</strong></h2>\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li><strong>Exaggerate your work history.</strong> Lies of any kind, even in the form of exaggeration, are not acceptable. Period.</li>\r\n 	<li><strong>Talk poorly</strong> about past or present employers.</li>\r\n 	<li><strong>Discuss more than</strong> standard small talk about your personal life.</li>\r\n 	<li><strong>Chew gum</strong> or fidget.</li>\r\n 	<li><strong>Run the risk</strong> of having your cellphone go off mid-interview. Turn it off before you walk in. Even better, leave it in the car to avoid any risk of forgetting to turn it off.</li>\r\n 	<li><strong>Present yourself as overly confident or cocky.</strong> Great leaders know how to be good team players and learn from everyone around them.</li>\r\n 	<li><strong>Show up unable to articulate</strong> why you are the right person for the job.</li>\r\n 	<li><strong>Focus only on your desire to be hired</strong> rather than the benefit hiring you will bring to the organization.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\nInterviews should not be fear-inspiring. They should give you a butterflies-in-your-stomach feeling because the anticipation of all that is yet to be is exciting. Show up confident, prepared, on time, well-dressed and having done your research, and you’ll do well.\r\n\r\nPlease share your favorite interview tips, techniques or questions in the comment section below and/or email Christy at <a href=\"mailto:Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events</a> or James at <a href=\"mailto:James.Rota@strategic.events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">James.Rota@strategic.events</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: A Job Interview Review: 8 Do\'s And 8 Don\'ts, Job Interviews, Job, Interview, Success, Career, Networking, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Plan Your Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://planyourmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-398 size-full\" title=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Plan-Your-Meetings_250.jpg\" alt=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" width=\"250\" height=\"81\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','A Job Interview Review: 8 Do\'s And 8 Don\'ts','','inherit','closed','closed','','695-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 14:16:07','2018-02-06 14:16:07','',695,'https://strategic.events/695-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10088,3,'2018-02-06 14:22:06','2018-02-06 14:22:06','<h2>Notes From A Road Warrior: 8 Tips For Kinder, Gentler Travel</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-2536\" title=\"A road warrior’s travel tips for a kinder gentler trip: Whether you’re traveling for work or pleasure, the key to a comfortable trip is to pack the right gear. As a million mile flyer, I’ve had more than my share of learning opportunities on how to travel. Notes From A Road Warrior: 8 Tips For Kinder, Gentler Travel\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/DF3UZHYBMH-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"A road warrior’s travel tips for a kinder gentler trip: Whether you’re traveling for work or pleasure, the key to a comfortable trip is to pack the right gear. As a million mile flyer, I’ve had more than my share of learning opportunities on how to travel. Notes From A Road Warrior: 8 Tips For Kinder, Gentler Travel\" width=\"336\" height=\"224\" />A road warrior’s travel tips for a kinder gentler trip: Whether you’re traveling for work or pleasure, the key to a comfortable trip is to pack the right gear. As a million mile flyer, I’ve had more than my share of learning opportunities on how to travel. So while many of us are making plans for pleasure trips, as well as the work-related ones, I thought I’d share ideas for how to kick back, relax and let a comfortable journey begin.\r\n<h3>Travel Tips</h3>\r\nHere are eight of my must-pack items:\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>Portable charger and multi-prong adapter. Not only can I recharge my gear, I can share with others. Bonus tip: Giving a stranger a battery boost super charges your networking. You never know who you’re sitting near. Opportunities are everywhere if you take the time to find them.</li>\r\n 	<li>Lavender water spritz. Flying makes skin dry and feeling “stale.” I carry a small bottle of scented water that I spritz during the flight. It wakes me up, takes away some of the plane smell that comes with flying and makes me feel clean.</li>\r\n 	<li>Individually wrapped hand wipes. By the time I’m ready to snack, my hands have touched a seat belt that has likely never been sanitized, my suitcase handles and myriad other germ-laden items so they get a quick cleaning. Look for scented wipes that leave your hands smelling good but don’t make food taste funny. They also double as face towels if I run out of my lavender water.</li>\r\n 	<li>A magazine. Kindle batteries die. I pack a magazine I’ve been meaning to read for weeks and finally read it. This leaves one less thing to dust around when I get home. Bonus tip: Magazines can be shared with seat mates and are great conversation starters.</li>\r\n 	<li>A pashmina. It folds into my bag and is there when the flight becomes frigid. Doesn’t it always? Doubles as a pillow or blanket. At my destination, it dresses up whatever I wear.</li>\r\n 	<li>A single house key. I bring a spare rather than my entire key ring. This eliminates extra weight in my bag and prevents me from losing them. This only works if you get a ride to the airport.</li>\r\n 	<li>Online reward card filing system. My hotel and rewards numbers are in the contact section of my phone so no cards are needed. It’s much simpler than carrying all of them.</li>\r\n 	<li>A pair of shoes a half-size too large. One of the first things once I’ve boarded is kick off my shoes. By the time we land, my feet don’t fit back into them. So, I buy a pair of shoes a half-size too large and put insoles into them to make up the extra space. I have the insoles for when I’ll be doing a lot of walking or want to wear heels that can make my feet hurt.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDo you have tips of your own to share? Want 10 more of Christy’s? Let’s continue the conversation in the comment section below, on Twitter <a href=\"https://twitter.com/SMEChristy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@SMEChristy</a> or by email at <a href=\"mailto:Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Notes From A Road Warrior 8 Tips For Kinder Gentler Travel, Travel Tips, Travel, Tips, Comfortable, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Plan Your Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://planyourmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-398 size-full\" title=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Plan-Your-Meetings_250.jpg\" alt=\"Plan Your Meetings Logo\" width=\"250\" height=\"81\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Notes From A Road Warrior: 8 Tips For Kinder, Gentler Travel','','inherit','closed','closed','','691-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 14:22:06','2018-02-06 14:22:06','',691,'https://strategic.events/691-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10089,3,'2018-02-06 14:28:57','2018-02-06 14:28:57','[vc_row css=\".vc_custom_1490810478802{background-color: #000050 !important;}\"][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n<h2><span style=\"color: #000050;\"> Resource Guide: Strategic Tips For Tweeting and Gaining Followers</span></h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Image-for-Resource-Guide-V2.png\" image_size=\"large\" align=\"center\"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=\".vc_custom_1490814201873{background-color: #000050 !important;}\"][vc_column][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][vc_column_text]\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">Our social media strategy is about diversification. Not only do we use an assortment of tools, including <a style=\"color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Instagram</a>, <a style=\"color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Twitter</a>, <a style=\"color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Facebook</a>, and <a style=\"color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-meetings-&amp;-events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">LinkedIn</a>, we read a variety of blogs to <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategically-building-your-information-pipeline/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">keep us informed</a> of trends and new ways to improve our strategy.\r\nHere is a list of some of our favorites and the reasons why. We’re also sharing links to the sources we used to create our awesome infographic: Strategic Tips for Tweeting and Gaining Followers.</span></p>\r\n[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=\"thick_solid\" border_color=\"#ffffff\" margin_top=\"0\"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=\".vc_custom_1490810700042{background-color: #085cdf !important;}\"][vc_column width=\"1/4\" css=\".vc_custom_1490810709499{background-color: #085cdf !important;}\"][vc_column_text]<a href=\"https://hootsuite.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-4668\" title=\"The following websites and blogs are often used by the SME team to achieve our social media, and specifically Twitter goals. Strategic Tips For Tweeting and Gaining Followers.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Hootsuite.png\" alt=\"The following websites and blogs are often used by the SME team to achieve our social media, and specifically Twitter goals. Strategic Tips For Tweeting and Gaining Followers.\" width=\"132\" height=\"116\" /></a>[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"3/4\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][vc_column_text]\r\n<h2><span style=\"color: #ffbd4a;\"><u>Hootsuite</u></span></h2>\r\n<span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">The first blog recommendation is brought to you by Hootsuite. This social media management tool helps small business tackle all their social media tasks and can provide insightful analytics to better understand how effective your efforts are. A small investment can provide a huge return. Another bonus: Hootsuite’s blog content is top notch. Here are a few posts we’ve learned from: </span>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><a style=\"color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https://blog.hootsuite.com/twitter-best-practices/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Twitter Best Practices You Should Put into Action</a></span></li>\r\n 	<li><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><a style=\"color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https://blog.hootsuite.com/best-time-to-post-on-facebook-twitter-instagram/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Best Time to Post on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram</a></span></li>\r\n 	<li><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><a style=\"color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https://blog.hootsuite.com/gif-guide/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Ultimate GIF Guide for Social Media Marketers</a></span></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=\".vc_custom_1490810745730{background-color: #0647ac !important;}\"][vc_column width=\"1/4\" css=\".vc_custom_1490810755697{background-color: #0647ac !important;}\"][vc_column_text]<a href=\"https://buffer.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-4675\" title=\"The following websites and blogs are often used by the SME team to achieve our social media, and specifically Twitter goals. Strategic Tips For Tweeting and Gaining Followers.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Buffer_application_logo-300x60.png\" alt=\"The following websites and blogs are often used by the SME team to achieve our social media, and specifically Twitter goals. Strategic Tips For Tweeting and Gaining Followers.\" width=\"300\" height=\"60\" /></a>[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"3/4\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][vc_column_text]\r\n<h2><span style=\"color: #ffbd4a;\"><u>Buffer</u></span></h2>\r\n<span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">The second website with a fabulous blog is Buffer.com. Buffer is like Hootsuite in functionality in that it’s a social media management tool. We’ve found Buffer’s blog extremely informational and it consistently produces content that is relevant to our social media needs. Here are a few posts we’ve found useful:</span>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><a style=\"color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https://blog.bufferapp.com/best-time-to-tweet-research\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Biggest Social Media Science Study: What 4.8 Million Tweets Say About the Best Time to Tweet</a></span></li>\r\n 	<li><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><a style=\"color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https://blog.bufferapp.com/a-scientific-guide-to-hashtags-which-ones-work-when-and-how-many\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Use Hashtags: How Many, Best Ones, and Where to Use Them</a></span></li>\r\n 	<li><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><a style=\"color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https://blog.bufferapp.com/the-ideal-length-of-everything-online-according-to-science\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Ideal Length of Everything Online, Backed by Research</a></span></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=\".vc_custom_1490810720898{background-color: #085cdf !important;}\"][vc_column width=\"1/4\" css=\".vc_custom_1490810729394{background-color: #085cdf !important;}\"][vc_column_text]<a href=\"http://www.hubspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-4677 size-medium\" title=\"The following websites and blogs are often used by the SME team to achieve our social media, and specifically Twitter goals. Strategic Tips For Tweeting and Gaining Followers.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/HubSpot_Logo-300x87.png\" alt=\"The following websites and blogs are often used by the SME team to achieve our social media, and specifically Twitter goals. Strategic Tips For Tweeting and Gaining Followers.\" width=\"300\" height=\"87\" /></a>[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"3/4\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][vc_column_text]\r\n<h2><span style=\"color: #ffbd4a;\"><u>HubSpot</u></span></h2>\r\n<span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">HubSpot is a powerful and robust customer relationship management (CRM) tool. Their blog falls nothing short of that same description. We’ve found countless resources to help us further our digital marketing footprint from their insight. A few of our favorites are:</span>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><a style=\"color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/best-times-post-pin-tweet-social-media-infographic#sm.0000o3a8c8utvdkcu0r2522byks2a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Best Times to Post on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn &amp; Other Social Media Sites [Infographic]</a></span></li>\r\n 	<li><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><a style=\"color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/micro-influencer-marketing#sm.0000o3a8c8utvdkcu0r2522byks2a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Micro-Influencer Marketing: A Comprehensive Guide</a></span></li>\r\n 	<li><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><a style=\"color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/influencer-marketing-power#sm.0000o3a8c8utvdkcu0r2522byks2a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">6 Simple Ways to Tap Into the Power of Influencer Marketing</a></span></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=\".vc_custom_1490810763612{background-color: #0647ac !important;}\"][vc_column width=\"1/4\" css=\".vc_custom_1490810772594{background-color: #0647ac !important;}\"][vc_column_text]<a href=\"http://hashtagify.me/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-4676\" title=\"The following websites and blogs are often used by the SME team to achieve our social media, and specifically Twitter goals. Strategic Tips For Tweeting and Gaining Followers.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/HashtagifyLogo_Big1-300x63.png\" alt=\"The following websites and blogs are often used by the SME team to achieve our social media, and specifically Twitter goals. Strategic Tips For Tweeting and Gaining Followers.\" width=\"258\" height=\"55\" /></a>[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"3/4\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][vc_column_text]\r\n<h2><span style=\"color: #ffbd4a;\"><u>Hashtagify.me</u></span></h2>\r\n<span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">This website didn’t make our list because of its blog. We included it because Hashtagify.me is extremely useful when checking if a hashtag is worth tweeting. (See our handy</span> <a href=\"https://strategic.events/?p=4685&amp;preview=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">infographic</a> <span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">for more details on that.) This cool tool lets you search a hashtags popularity, compare it to other hashtags, and easily choose what hashtag will receive the most potential impressions. Try it</span> <a href=\"http://hashtagify.me/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here</a><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">.</span>[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=\".vc_custom_1490814337904{background-color: #000050 !important;}\"][/vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][mk_padding_divider size=\"20\"][mk_social_networks size=\"medium\" style=\"simple-rounded\" border_color=\"#ffbd4a\" bg_color=\"#085cdf\" bg_hover_color=\"#ffbd4a\" icon_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_hover_color=\"#ffffff\" align=\"center\" facebook=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" twitter=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" instagram=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" linkedin=\"https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-meetings-&amp;-events\"][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text]','Resource Guide: Strategic Tips For Tweeting and Gaining Followers','','inherit','closed','closed','','4665-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 14:28:57','2018-02-06 14:28:57','',4665,'https://strategic.events/4665-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10090,3,'2018-02-06 14:35:36','2018-02-06 14:35:36','<h2>Strategic Tips For Tweeting and Gaining Followers</h2>\r\nIf you don’t adapt to change, you’ll be <a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzvzYT_y-GA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">left behind</a>. That is especially true as it relates to the influence social media has had on the way we communicate. If you’re not incorporating social media into your event marketing, it’s time to start. We’re making it easier to either get started or improve your approach by sharing a few strategic tips.\r\n\r\nAt SME, we take full advantage of Twitter. Its 140 character limit reminds us that sometimes less is more. Here’s a fun fact: <a href=\"https://blog.bufferapp.com/the-ideal-length-of-everything-online-according-to-science\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">research</a> shows that 100 character tweets, are the most popular. #whoknew\r\n\r\nThe, ‘less is more’ concept is seen in event design and décor too. If your goal is to encourage conversation and networking, don’t clutter tables with large centerpieces or overdo your décor.\r\n\r\nAnother quick tip and something you can overdo is your Twitter profile. Make sure to optimize your profile including keywords you want to rank for. Don\'t forget to link other accounts you own as well as your website.\r\n\r\nOur goal is to leave you with tidbits tips to tweet with confidence, boost your following and increase your engagement rate. Happy tweeting!\r\n\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-4877 size-full\" title=\"At Strategic Meetings &amp; Events we put together some strategic tips and strategies we’ve found successful on one social media platform: Twitter.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Twitter-Growth-5.png\" alt=\"If you’re not incorporating social media into your event marketing, it’s time to start. We’re making it easier to either get started or improve your approach by sharing a few strategic tips. Strategic Tips For Tweeting And Gaining Followers [Infographic]\" width=\"800\" height=\"2000\" />[mk_social_networks size=\"medium\" style=\"simple-rounded\" border_color=\"#ffbd4a\" bg_color=\"#085cdf\" bg_hover_color=\"#ffbd4a\" icon_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_hover_color=\"#ffffff\" align=\"center\" facebook=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" twitter=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" instagram=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" linkedin=\"https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-meetings-&amp;-events\"]\r\n\r\nEveryone has a mix of learning styles but much of online content is text heavy. We want our content with as many people as possible so for all you visual learners out there, we’ve created helpful infographics, chock full of <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategically-building-your-information-pipeline/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">information</a> and tips.\r\n\r\nLook for SME’s upcoming infographics on event management, social media, and more. Follow us for the latest <a href=\"https://strategic.events/blog/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">blog</a> posts and industry <a href=\"https://strategic.events/articles/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">articles</a>.\r\n\r\nWe use your feedback to shape future articles. Please leave a comment below. We’d love to hear from you.\r\n\r\nClick <a href=\"https://strategic.events/?p=4665&amp;preview=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">here</a> for the source guide for this infographic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Gaining Followers, How To Gain Twitter Followers, Social Media, Social Media Tips, Strategic Tips, Strategic Tips For Tweeting, Strategic Tips For Tweeting And Gaining Followers, Twitter, Twitter Tips</em>','Strategic Tips For Tweeting And Gaining Followers [Infographic]','','inherit','closed','closed','','4685-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 14:35:36','2018-02-06 14:35:36','',4685,'https://strategic.events/4685-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10091,3,'2018-02-06 14:55:06','2018-02-06 14:55:06','','webpage-social-media-graphic-no-border','','inherit','open','closed','','webpage-social-media-graphic-no-border','','','2018-02-09 18:11:27','2018-02-09 18:11:27','',7,'https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/webpage-social-media-graphic-no-border.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(10092,3,'2018-02-06 14:57:01','2018-02-06 14:57:01','[mk_page_section bg_color=\"#ffffff\" border_color=\"#ffffff\" full_width=\"true\" padding_top=\"0\" padding_bottom=\"0\" top_shape_color=\"#ffffff\" bottom_shape_color=\"#ffffff\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column border_color=\"#ffffff\" css=\".vc_custom_1473177697729{margin: 10px !important;}\"][mk_layerslider id=\"7\"][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section bg_color=\"#ffffff\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][mk_fancy_title tag_name=\"h1\" color=\"#d6a461\" size=\"30\" line_height=\"97\" font_weight=\"bold\" txt_transform=\"none\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif\" font_type=\"safefont\"]MAKE YOUR VISION A REALITY[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1516503168238{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces goal driven, corporate events that integrate your company\'s sales and marketing message into every aspect of the program. We create experiences that leave your target audience thinking, feeling and remembering the information that is most important to you. With a worldwide scope and an infinite amount of talent, creativity and energy, SME is a global corporate event management company that redefines excellence in everything we do.\r\n\r\nSupporting your sales goals with corporate events is so much more than executing logistics or hosting the same sales meeting or incentive trip year after year. Our strategic planning experts will take your vision and build a comprehensive plan to achieve your goals, drive your sales cycle and make your programs more cost efficient. And we’re told that we are delightful to work with. How great is that?[/vc_column_text][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#211551\" size=\"25\" font_weight=\"bold\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"none\"]\r\n<h2>Discover Strategic Meetings &amp; Events</h2>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517602256063{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]\r\n\r\n[gallery size=\"full\" mobx_row_height=\"600\" link=\"file\" ids=\"3271\"]\r\n\r\n[/vc_column_text][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#211551\" size=\"25\" font_weight=\"bold\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"none\"]\r\n<h2>Comprehensive Corporate Event Management</h2>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text]Strategic Meetings &amp; Events professional planning experts become your extended team. Our sole focus is your success, specifically as you define it. The process is often filled with long hours, a myriad of changes and tons of pressure. Why not work with a team who thinks of everything, tracks the details, manages your spend and keeps you smiling even when you’re exhausted?[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text align=\"center\" animation=\"fade-in\"]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https://strategic.events/category/news-flash\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">News Flash</a></h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][mk_blog style=\"grid\" column=\"1\" image_size=\"full\" post_count=\"1\" disable_meta=\"false\" pagination=\"false\" cat=\"493\"][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"30\"][mk_social_networks size=\"medium\" style=\"simple-rounded\" border_color=\"#000050\" bg_color=\"#000050\" bg_hover_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_hover_color=\"#000050\" align=\"center\" facebook=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" twitter=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" pinterest=\"https://www.pinterest.com/strategicmeetingsevents/\" instagram=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" linkedin=\"https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-meetings-&amp;-events\" youtube=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsuJ-F1Ot1zSc1ccpj_DzXA\"][vc_wp_search][vc_separator][mk_padding_divider size=\"15\"][vc_single_image image=\"1125\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" css_animation=\"appear\" link=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/tastebuzz/\"][mk_blog style=\"grid\" column=\"1\" image_size=\"medium\" post_count=\"1\" excerpt_length=\"0\" pagination=\"false\" cat=\"40\"][vc_single_image image=\"10091\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" link=\"https://strategic.events/sme-social-media-connect/\"][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner css=\".vc_custom_1517845467412{background-color: #000050 !important;}\"][mk_fancy_title color=\"#ffffff\" size=\"28\" margin_bottom=\"0\" font_family=\"none\" align=\"center\"]\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">Strategic Planning</span>\r\n<span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">Movement</span></p>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text align=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1517845515342{margin-bottom: 0px !important;padding-right: 5px !important;padding-left: 5px !important;}\"]\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">By banding together and becoming strategic in our professional vision, brand and goals, we will set the stage to change the way we are perceived, meetings are held and the role we play in their creation.</span></strong></p>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1517845539425{background-color: #000050 !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"10075\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" link=\"https://www.facebook.com/groups/740077079531864/\"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1517845547160{background-color: #000050 !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"10076\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" link=\"https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8652469\"][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][vc_row fullwidth=\"true\" css=\".vc_custom_1469113826042{background-color: #211551 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dimension=\"flat\" size=\"large\" url=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/contact-strategic-meetings-events/\" target=\"_blank\" align=\"center\" fullwidth=\"true\" margin_bottom=\"6\" margin_right=\"0\" bg_color=\"#211551\" btn_hover_bg=\"#d6a461\" btn_hover_txt_color=\"#211551\" action=\"``mailto:Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events``\" type=\"``submit``\" value=\"``Send\"]Contact us to discover the perfect fit for your company’s event goals.[/mk_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]','Strategic Meetings & Events | Global Corporate Event Management','','inherit','closed','closed','','7-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 14:57:01','2018-02-06 14:57:01','',7,'https://strategic.events/7-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10095,3,'2018-02-06 17:57:27','2018-02-06 17:57:27','[mk_page_section bg_color=\"#ffffff\" border_color=\"#ffffff\" full_width=\"true\" padding_top=\"0\" padding_bottom=\"0\" top_shape_color=\"#ffffff\" bottom_shape_color=\"#ffffff\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column border_color=\"#ffffff\" css=\".vc_custom_1473177697729{margin: 10px !important;}\"][mk_layerslider id=\"7\"][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section bg_color=\"#ffffff\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][mk_fancy_title tag_name=\"h1\" color=\"#d6a461\" size=\"30\" line_height=\"97\" font_weight=\"bold\" txt_transform=\"none\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif\" font_type=\"safefont\"]MAKE YOUR VISION A REALITY[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1516503168238{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces goal driven, corporate events that integrate your company\'s sales and marketing message into every aspect of the program. We create experiences that leave your target audience thinking, feeling and remembering the information that is most important to you. With a worldwide scope and an infinite amount of talent, creativity and energy, SME is a global corporate event management company that redefines excellence in everything we do.\r\n\r\nSupporting your sales goals with corporate events is so much more than executing logistics or hosting the same sales meeting or incentive trip year after year. Our strategic planning experts will take your vision and build a comprehensive plan to achieve your goals, drive your sales cycle and make your programs more cost efficient. And we’re told that we are delightful to work with. How great is that?[/vc_column_text][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#211551\" size=\"25\" font_weight=\"bold\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"none\"]\r\n<h2>Discover Strategic Meetings &amp; Events</h2>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517939782221{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]\r\n\r\n[gallery size=\"full\" mobx_row_height=\"600\" link=\"file\" ids=\"10094\"]\r\n\r\n[/vc_column_text][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#211551\" size=\"25\" font_weight=\"bold\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"none\"]\r\n<h2>Comprehensive Corporate Event Management</h2>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text]Strategic Meetings &amp; Events professional planning experts become your extended team. Our sole focus is your success, specifically as you define it. The process is often filled with long hours, a myriad of changes and tons of pressure. Why not work with a team who thinks of everything, tracks the details, manages your spend and keeps you smiling even when you’re exhausted?[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text align=\"center\" animation=\"fade-in\"]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https://strategic.events/category/news-flash\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">News Flash</a></h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][mk_blog style=\"grid\" column=\"1\" image_size=\"full\" post_count=\"1\" disable_meta=\"false\" pagination=\"false\" cat=\"493\"][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"30\"][mk_social_networks size=\"medium\" style=\"simple-rounded\" border_color=\"#000050\" bg_color=\"#000050\" bg_hover_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_hover_color=\"#000050\" align=\"center\" facebook=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" twitter=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" pinterest=\"https://www.pinterest.com/strategicmeetingsevents/\" instagram=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" linkedin=\"https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-meetings-&amp;-events\" youtube=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsuJ-F1Ot1zSc1ccpj_DzXA\"][vc_wp_search][vc_separator][mk_padding_divider size=\"15\"][vc_single_image image=\"1125\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" css_animation=\"appear\" link=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/tastebuzz/\"][mk_blog style=\"grid\" column=\"1\" image_size=\"medium\" post_count=\"1\" excerpt_length=\"0\" pagination=\"false\" cat=\"40\"][vc_single_image image=\"10091\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" link=\"https://strategic.events/sme-social-media-connect/\"][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner css=\".vc_custom_1517845467412{background-color: #000050 !important;}\"][mk_fancy_title color=\"#ffffff\" size=\"28\" margin_bottom=\"0\" font_family=\"none\" align=\"center\"]\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">Strategic Planning</span>\r\n<span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">Movement</span></p>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text align=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1517845515342{margin-bottom: 0px !important;padding-right: 5px !important;padding-left: 5px !important;}\"]\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">By banding together and becoming strategic in our professional vision, brand and goals, we will set the stage to change the way we are perceived, meetings are held and the role we play in their creation.</span></strong></p>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1517845539425{background-color: #000050 !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"10075\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" link=\"https://www.facebook.com/groups/740077079531864/\"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1517845547160{background-color: #000050 !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"10076\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" link=\"https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8652469\"][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][vc_row fullwidth=\"true\" css=\".vc_custom_1469113826042{background-color: #211551 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dimension=\"flat\" size=\"large\" url=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/contact-strategic-meetings-events/\" target=\"_blank\" align=\"center\" fullwidth=\"true\" margin_bottom=\"6\" margin_right=\"0\" bg_color=\"#211551\" btn_hover_bg=\"#d6a461\" btn_hover_txt_color=\"#211551\" action=\"``mailto:Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events``\" type=\"``submit``\" value=\"``Send\"]Contact us to discover the perfect fit for your company’s event goals.[/mk_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]','Strategic Meetings & Events | Global Corporate Event Management','','inherit','closed','closed','','7-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 17:57:27','2018-02-06 17:57:27','',7,'https://strategic.events/7-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10100,3,'2018-02-06 18:16:31','2018-02-06 18:16:31','','Who We Are','','inherit','open','closed','','smethumbnail-copy','','','2018-02-06 18:17:13','2018-02-06 18:17:13','',7,'https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/smethumbnail-copy.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10101,3,'2018-02-06 18:18:34','2018-02-06 18:18:34','[mk_page_section bg_color=\"#ffffff\" border_color=\"#ffffff\" full_width=\"true\" padding_top=\"0\" padding_bottom=\"0\" top_shape_color=\"#ffffff\" bottom_shape_color=\"#ffffff\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column border_color=\"#ffffff\" css=\".vc_custom_1473177697729{margin: 10px !important;}\"][mk_layerslider id=\"7\"][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section bg_color=\"#ffffff\" sidebar=\"sidebar-1\"][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][mk_fancy_title tag_name=\"h1\" color=\"#d6a461\" size=\"30\" line_height=\"97\" font_weight=\"bold\" txt_transform=\"none\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif\" font_type=\"safefont\"]MAKE YOUR VISION A REALITY[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1516503168238{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces goal driven, corporate events that integrate your company\'s sales and marketing message into every aspect of the program. We create experiences that leave your target audience thinking, feeling and remembering the information that is most important to you. With a worldwide scope and an infinite amount of talent, creativity and energy, SME is a global corporate event management company that redefines excellence in everything we do.\r\n\r\nSupporting your sales goals with corporate events is so much more than executing logistics or hosting the same sales meeting or incentive trip year after year. Our strategic planning experts will take your vision and build a comprehensive plan to achieve your goals, drive your sales cycle and make your programs more cost efficient. And we’re told that we are delightful to work with. How great is that?[/vc_column_text][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#211551\" size=\"25\" font_weight=\"bold\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"none\"]\r\n<h2>Discover Strategic Meetings &amp; Events</h2>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517941052491{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]\r\n\r\n[gallery size=\"full\" mobx_row_height=\"600\" link=\"file\" ids=\"10100\"]\r\n\r\n[/vc_column_text][mk_fancy_title strip_tags=\"true\" color=\"#211551\" size=\"25\" font_weight=\"bold\" margin_top=\"30\" margin_bottom=\"6\" font_family=\"none\"]\r\n<h2>Comprehensive Corporate Event Management</h2>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text]Strategic Meetings &amp; Events professional planning experts become your extended team. Our sole focus is your success, specifically as you define it. The process is often filled with long hours, a myriad of changes and tons of pressure. Why not work with a team who thinks of everything, tracks the details, manages your spend and keeps you smiling even when you’re exhausted?[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text align=\"center\" animation=\"fade-in\"]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https://strategic.events/category/news-flash\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">News Flash</a></h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][mk_blog style=\"grid\" column=\"1\" image_size=\"full\" post_count=\"1\" disable_meta=\"false\" pagination=\"false\" cat=\"493\"][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"30\"][mk_social_networks size=\"medium\" style=\"simple-rounded\" border_color=\"#000050\" bg_color=\"#000050\" bg_hover_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_hover_color=\"#000050\" align=\"center\" facebook=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" twitter=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" pinterest=\"https://www.pinterest.com/strategicmeetingsevents/\" instagram=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" linkedin=\"https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-meetings-&amp;-events\" youtube=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsuJ-F1Ot1zSc1ccpj_DzXA\"][vc_wp_search][vc_separator][mk_padding_divider size=\"15\"][vc_single_image image=\"1125\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" css_animation=\"appear\" link=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/tastebuzz/\"][mk_blog style=\"grid\" column=\"1\" image_size=\"medium\" post_count=\"1\" excerpt_length=\"0\" pagination=\"false\" cat=\"40\"][vc_single_image image=\"10091\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" link=\"https://strategic.events/sme-social-media-connect/\"][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner css=\".vc_custom_1517845467412{background-color: #000050 !important;}\"][mk_fancy_title color=\"#ffffff\" size=\"28\" margin_bottom=\"0\" font_family=\"none\" align=\"center\"]\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">Strategic Planning</span>\r\n<span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">Movement</span></p>\r\n[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text align=\"center\" css=\".vc_custom_1517845515342{margin-bottom: 0px !important;padding-right: 5px !important;padding-left: 5px !important;}\"]\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">By banding together and becoming strategic in our professional vision, brand and goals, we will set the stage to change the way we are perceived, meetings are held and the role we play in their creation.</span></strong></p>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1517845539425{background-color: #000050 !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"10075\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" link=\"https://www.facebook.com/groups/740077079531864/\"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=\"1/2\" css=\".vc_custom_1517845547160{background-color: #000050 !important;}\"][vc_single_image image=\"10076\" img_size=\"full\" alignment=\"center\" onclick=\"custom_link\" img_link_target=\"_blank\" link=\"https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8652469\"][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][vc_row fullwidth=\"true\" css=\".vc_custom_1469113826042{background-color: #211551 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dimension=\"flat\" size=\"large\" url=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/contact-strategic-meetings-events/\" target=\"_blank\" align=\"center\" fullwidth=\"true\" margin_bottom=\"6\" margin_right=\"0\" bg_color=\"#211551\" btn_hover_bg=\"#d6a461\" btn_hover_txt_color=\"#211551\" action=\"``mailto:Christy.Lamagna@strategic.events``\" type=\"``submit``\" value=\"``Send\"]Contact us to discover the perfect fit for your company’s event goals.[/mk_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]','Strategic Meetings & Events | Global Corporate Event Management','','inherit','closed','closed','','7-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 18:18:34','2018-02-06 18:18:34','',7,'https://strategic.events/7-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10102,3,'2018-02-06 18:44:26','2018-02-06 18:44:26','','sme-symbol-url','','inherit','open','closed','','sme-symbol-url','','','2018-02-06 18:44:26','2018-02-06 18:44:26','',0,'https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/sme-symbol-url.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(10104,3,'2018-02-06 20:52:38','2018-02-06 20:52:38','<h2>Meetings Podcast: Why Christy Lamagna Says, \"There’s More To It\"</h2>\r\n<img class=\" wp-image-5107 alignright\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/christylamagna1jpg.gif\" alt=\"Mike sits down with Christy Lamagna is the CEO and Chief Strategist of SME, which produces mid to large sized corporate events, worldwide. Meetings Podcast\" width=\"357\" height=\"186\" />Mike McAllen sits down with Christy Lamagna is the CEO and Chief <a href=\"https://strategic.events/event-strategist/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Strategist</a> of Strategic Meetings &amp; Events, which produces mid to large sized corporate events, worldwide. Having started in the industry 26 years ago, Christy has seen the industry grow and evolve, and contributes to teaching, coaching and mentoring others in the field. She has taught <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategic</a> planning for ten years at the college level, writes for numerous industry publications, speaks at conferences and works with a select group as a professional coach.\r\n\r\nChristy is writing a textbook for the <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-event-planning-profession/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planning</a> industry which is expected out at the beginning of 2018.\r\n\r\n<strong>Quotes from the interview</strong>\r\n\r\n“Best thing about running is stopping.” – Christy Lamagna\r\n\r\n“People say they are thinking they want to be a event planner after holding a dinner party. I ask them did they make dinner last night? So you are also going to open a restaurant?” —Christy Lamagna\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[audio mp3=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Christy_Lamagna-1.mp3\"][/audio]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Meetings Podcast Why Christy Lamagna Says There’s More To It, Meetings Podcast, Christy Lamagna, Strategic Planning, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Event Planning, Corporate Events, Corporate Meetings, Grass Shack Road, MeetingsNet</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.meetingsnet.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1342 size-full\" title=\"MeetingsNet Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/MeetingsNet.png\" alt=\"MeetingsNet Logo\" width=\"170\" height=\"33\" /></a><a href=\"http://grassshackroad.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1843 size-full\" title=\"Grass Shack events &amp; media logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/grassshack_170.jpg\" alt=\"Grass Shack events &amp; media logo\" width=\"170\" height=\"38\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Meetings Podcast: Why Christy Lamagna Says, \"There’s More To It\"','','inherit','closed','closed','','5105-autosave-v1','','','2018-02-06 20:52:38','2018-02-06 20:52:38','',5105,'https://strategic.events/5105-autosave-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10105,3,'2018-02-06 20:52:54','2018-02-06 20:52:54','<h2>Meetings Podcast: Why Christy Lamagna Says, \"There’s More To It\"</h2>\r\n<img class=\" wp-image-5107 alignright\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/christylamagna1jpg.gif\" alt=\"Mike sits down with Christy Lamagna is the CEO and Chief Strategist of SME, which produces mid to large sized corporate events, worldwide. Meetings Podcast\" width=\"357\" height=\"186\" />Mike McAllen sits down with Christy Lamagna is the CEO and Chief <a href=\"https://strategic.events/event-strategist/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Strategist</a> of Strategic Meetings &amp; Events, which produces mid to large sized corporate events, worldwide. Having started in the industry 26 years ago, Christy has seen the industry grow and evolve, and contributes to teaching, coaching and mentoring others in the field. She has taught <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategic</a> planning for ten years at the college level, writes for numerous industry publications, speaks at conferences and works with a select group as a professional coach.\r\n\r\nChristy is writing a textbook for the <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-event-planning-profession/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planning</a> industry which is expected out at the beginning of 2018.\r\n\r\n<strong>Quotes from the interview</strong>\r\n\r\n“Best thing about running is stopping.” – Christy Lamagna\r\n\r\n“People say they are thinking they want to be a event planner after holding a dinner party. I ask them did they make dinner last night? So you are also going to open a restaurant?” —Christy Lamagna\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[audio mp3=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Christy_Lamagna-1.mp3\"][/audio]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Meetings Podcast Why Christy Lamagna Says There’s More To It, Meetings Podcast, Christy Lamagna, Strategic Planning, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Event Planning, Corporate Events, Corporate Meetings, Grass Shack Road, MeetingsNet</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.meetingsnet.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1342 size-full\" title=\"MeetingsNet Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/MeetingsNet.png\" alt=\"MeetingsNet Logo\" width=\"170\" height=\"33\" /></a><a href=\"http://grassshackroad.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1843 size-full\" title=\"Grass Shack events &amp; media logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/grassshack_170.jpg\" alt=\"Grass Shack events &amp; media logo\" width=\"170\" height=\"38\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Meetings Podcast: Why Christy Lamagna Says, \"There’s More To It\"','','inherit','closed','closed','','5105-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 20:52:54','2018-02-06 20:52:54','',5105,'https://strategic.events/5105-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10106,3,'2018-02-06 20:55:34','2018-02-06 20:55:34','<h2>Meetings Podcast: Why Christy Lamagna Says, \"There’s More To It\"</h2>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-5107\" title=\"Mike McAllen sits down with Christy Lamagna is the CEO and Chief Strategist of Strategic Meetings &amp; Events. Having started in the industry 26 years ago, Christy has seen the industry grow and evolve, and contributes to teaching, coaching and mentoring others in the field. Meetings Podcast: Why Christy Lamagna Says,\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/christylamagna1jpg.gif\" alt=\"Mike McAllen sits down with Christy Lamagna is the CEO and Chief Strategist of Strategic Meetings &amp; Events. Having started in the industry 26 years ago, Christy has seen the industry grow and evolve, and contributes to teaching, coaching and mentoring others in the field. Meetings Podcast: Why Christy Lamagna Says,\" width=\"357\" height=\"186\" />Mike McAllen sits down with Christy Lamagna is the CEO and Chief <a href=\"https://strategic.events/event-strategist/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Strategist</a> of Strategic Meetings &amp; Events, which produces mid to large sized corporate events, worldwide. Having started in the industry 26 years ago, Christy has seen the industry grow and evolve, and contributes to teaching, coaching and mentoring others in the field. She has taught <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategic</a> planning for ten years at the college level, writes for numerous industry publications, speaks at conferences and works with a select group as a professional coach.\r\n\r\nChristy is writing a textbook for the <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-event-planning-profession/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planning</a> industry which is expected out at the beginning of 2018.\r\n\r\n<strong>Quotes from the interview</strong>\r\n\r\n“Best thing about running is stopping.” – Christy Lamagna\r\n\r\n“People say they are thinking they want to be a event planner after holding a dinner party. I ask them did they make dinner last night? So you are also going to open a restaurant?” —Christy Lamagna\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[audio mp3=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Christy_Lamagna-1.mp3\"][/audio]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Meetings Podcast Why Christy Lamagna Says There’s More To It, Meetings Podcast, Christy Lamagna, Strategic Planning, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Event Planning, Corporate Events, Corporate Meetings, Grass Shack Road, MeetingsNet</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.meetingsnet.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1342 size-full\" title=\"MeetingsNet Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/MeetingsNet.png\" alt=\"MeetingsNet Logo\" width=\"170\" height=\"33\" /></a><a href=\"http://grassshackroad.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1843 size-full\" title=\"Grass Shack events &amp; media logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/grassshack_170.jpg\" alt=\"Grass Shack events &amp; media logo\" width=\"170\" height=\"38\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Meetings Podcast: Why Christy Lamagna Says, \"There’s More To It\"','','inherit','closed','closed','','5105-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 20:55:34','2018-02-06 20:55:34','',5105,'https://strategic.events/5105-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10107,3,'2018-02-06 20:57:07','2018-02-06 20:57:07','<h2>Meetings Podcast: Why Christy Lamagna Says, \"There’s More To It\"</h2>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-5107\" title=\"Mike McAllen sits down with Christy Lamagna is the CEO and Chief Strategist of Strategic Meetings &amp; Events. Having started in the industry 26 years ago, Christy has seen the industry grow and evolve, and contributes to teaching, coaching and mentoring others in the field. Meetings Podcast: Why Christy Lamagna Says,\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/christylamagna1jpg.gif\" alt=\"Mike McAllen sits down with Christy Lamagna is the CEO and Chief Strategist of Strategic Meetings &amp; Events. Having started in the industry 26 years ago, Christy has seen the industry grow and evolve, and contributes to teaching, coaching and mentoring others in the field. Meetings Podcast: Why Christy Lamagna Says,\" width=\"357\" height=\"186\" />Mike McAllen sits down with Christy Lamagna is the CEO and Chief <a href=\"https://strategic.events/event-strategist/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Strategist</a> of Strategic Meetings &amp; Events, which produces mid to large sized corporate events, worldwide. Having started in the industry 26 years ago, Christy has seen the industry grow and evolve, and contributes to teaching, coaching and mentoring others in the field. She has taught <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategic</a> planning for ten years at the college level, writes for numerous industry publications, speaks at conferences and works with a select group as a professional coach. Listen to this Meetings Podcast to learn, Why Christy Lamagna Says, \"There’s More To It\".\r\n\r\nChristy is writing a textbook for the <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-event-planning-profession/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planning</a> industry which is expected out at the beginning of 2018.\r\n\r\n<strong>Quotes from the interview</strong>\r\n\r\n“Best thing about running is stopping.” – Christy Lamagna\r\n\r\n“People say they are thinking they want to be a event planner after holding a dinner party. I ask them did they make dinner last night? So you are also going to open a restaurant?” —Christy Lamagna\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[audio mp3=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Christy_Lamagna-1.mp3\"][/audio]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Meetings Podcast Why Christy Lamagna Says There’s More To It, Meetings Podcast, Christy Lamagna, Strategic Planning, Strategic Planners, Strategic Events, Event Planning, Corporate Events, Corporate Meetings, Grass Shack Road, MeetingsNet</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.meetingsnet.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1342 size-full\" title=\"MeetingsNet Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/MeetingsNet.png\" alt=\"MeetingsNet Logo\" width=\"170\" height=\"33\" /></a><a href=\"http://grassshackroad.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1843 size-full\" title=\"Grass Shack events &amp; media logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/grassshack_170.jpg\" alt=\"Grass Shack events &amp; media logo\" width=\"170\" height=\"38\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Meetings Podcast: Why Christy Lamagna Says, \"There’s More To It\"','','inherit','closed','closed','','5105-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 20:57:07','2018-02-06 20:57:07','',5105,'https://strategic.events/5105-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10108,3,'2018-02-06 21:02:56','2018-02-06 21:02:56','<h2>Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nWhat if I told you I wanted to personally orchestrate the end of the meeting and <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-insight-event-planners/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategic event planning</a> profession as we know it today? Not only that, but I bet that by the time you have finished reading this blog, you are going to not just agree with me but you’re going to join me in my quest.\r\n\r\nLet’s start with some basic facts you may not know about our industry:\r\n\r\nMeeting Planner’s International cites the Economic Impact of meetings on our economy as:\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>Approximately 1.8 million meetings and events occur in the U.S. each year, resulting direct contributions to the economy including:\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>$280 billion in spending</li>\r\n 	<li>$115 billion contribution to GDP</li>\r\n 	<li>$14.8 billion federal tax revenue</li>\r\n 	<li>$13.2 billion state and local tax revenue</li>\r\n 	<li>$66.8 billion in labor income</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n 	<li>Meetings and events contribute more to the GDP than the air transportation, motion picture, sound recording, performing arts and the spectator sport industries.</li>\r\n 	<li>Combined direct, indirect and induced effects of the meeting industry to GDP totals $393 billion.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<img class=\"alignnone wp-image-15613\" title=\"There is a nearly universal misinterpretation of why meetings are held, the value they can bring, and what meeting professionals do. As a result, both the public at large and our employers undervalue the vast array of talents and value we provide. Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight from the event planning profession\" src=\"http://2lkcp81qv9i72rn88i4dfqq1-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/pen-writing-notes-studying.jpg\" alt=\"There is a nearly universal misinterpretation of why meetings are held, the value they can bring, and what meeting professionals do. As a result, both the public at large and our employers undervalue the vast array of talents and value we provide. Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight from the event planning profession\" width=\"764\" height=\"509\" />\r\n\r\nWith these statistics from five years ago, touting those very notable results, imagine if we could find a report with today’s statistics? (It’s curious that there doesn’t seem to be one out there.) Either way, the figures are impressive. Why then, are we the people who drive all that economic wealth often undervalued?\r\n\r\n<strong>There is a nearly universal misinterpretation of why meetings are held, the value they can bring, and what meeting professionals do. As a result, both the public at large and our employers undervalue the vast array of talents and value we provide.</strong>\r\n<div class=\"tm-tweet-clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"tm-tweet-clear\">To prove my point, I’ve created the quiz below:</div>\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>\r\n<h3>You consider yourself a/an</h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>A. Event planner</li>\r\n 	<li>B. Meeting planner</li>\r\n 	<li>C. Event marketer</li>\r\n 	<li>D. Party planner</li>\r\n 	<li>E. Call me whatever you like; I do it all</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n 	<li>\r\n<h3>You are talking to someone you just met who asks you what you do for a living. When you tell them you plan events they say:</h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>A. OOOH, you are SO lucky you get to plan parties for a living!</li>\r\n 	<li>B. Would you pack me in your suitcase and take me with you on your next trip?</li>\r\n 	<li>C. That sounds like so much fun!</li>\r\n 	<li>D. I have a friend/colleague/relative who wants to be a planner. Can he/she call you?</li>\r\n 	<li>E. All of the above</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n 	<li>\r\n<h3>The last time you asked your boss for additional headcount:</h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>A. You were told it wasn’t in the budget</li>\r\n 	<li>B. You did the work yourself while you waited for a reply that either never came or was a ‘no’</li>\r\n 	<li>C. You were told you could have a few hours of an admin’s time each week instead</li>\r\n 	<li>D. You realized even if you could hire someone you don’t have time to train them</li>\r\n 	<li>E. All of the above</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n 	<li>\r\n<h3>When you think about your career which of the following are true:</h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>A. I am highly respected by my peers, management team and colleagues</li>\r\n 	<li>B. I am an integral part of all decisions effecting events and event marketing</li>\r\n 	<li>C. My time is valued and people I work with and support understand what it takes to do my job</li>\r\n 	<li>D. I am regarded as a trained professional whose skills are an essential part of the organization’s success</li>\r\n 	<li>E. None of the above</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-5051\" title=\"What if I told you I wanted to personally orchestrate the end of the meeting and event planning profession as we know it today? Strategic event planning is\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/stewart.jpg\" alt=\"What if I told you I wanted to personally orchestrate the end of the meeting and event planning profession as we know it today? Strategic event planning is\" width=\"209\" height=\"391\" />My bet you answered “E” to every question. How is it that we, who power the industry that contributes $393 billion to the economy each year are often undervalued, underutilized and not considered integral parts of an organization’s executive team? Before you blame your boss, you need to realize that you may unknowingly be a part of the problem.\r\n\r\nConsider this: when the air travel industry began, stewardesses staffed the cabins. The catchphrase, ‘Coffee, Tea or Me?’ was the unofficial tagline for the beautiful ‘’sky waitresses” who had to be single, fall into a particular weight and height category and who flirted with passengers as a required part of their job. Today, flight attendants dress professionally, keep a watchful eye over the cabin and are trained and ready to assist in case of an emergency. They <a href=\"https://strategic.events/how-to-become-strategic-planner-change-future/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">changed as an industry</a>, setting new work standards, creating a new work environment and in turn earned respect from their employers and passengers. They changed the course of their career path as they knew they had much more to offer than was being acknowledged.\r\n\r\nEvent professionals are the modern-day equivalent of stewardesses. We allow ourselves to be viewed merely at a surface level. We credit for the myriad of skills required to do our jobs successfully, as an industry we don’t have a cohesive message or mission statement. The one thing we have failed to plan is our career trajectory as a whole.\r\n\r\nI’d like to fix that and I have a plan. It requires us to come together, define our common goal, create a shared vocabulary, standards of excellence and a tools to clearly measure and prove our worth. In order for the profession to not just evolve, but survive, we must become ‘Event Strategists’ and plan according to the principles that define and drive strategic events.\r\n\r\nAs ‘<a href=\"https://strategic.events/event-strategist/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Event Strategists</a>,’ our mission will be to create goal-oriented events in alignment with an organization’s sales and marketing goals. There is a defined process on how this is done and how results are measured. In the world of <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Strategic</a> Event Planning the concept of having anyone but a trained, qualified, certified professional produce events will be akin to having your hairdresser perform your root canal; it is not about making something look pretty. You need a skilled professional to do the job correctly.\r\n\r\nYou can start making a difference today by incorporating the below into your work day. Each is the topic for a future posting that will dive deeper into each point.\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>Always start with the end in mind; what is your goal? If you don’t know, you aren’t ready to begin</li>\r\n 	<li>Remember that it isn’t about you; that applies to menu choices, giveaways, destinations; all event related decisions need objective eyes on them</li>\r\n 	<li>You have to answer the critical question of, ‘What’s in it for me’ to inspire anyone to do anything; especially attend an event that is not an internal audience.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\nI have a comprehensive game plan to share and am literally writing the textbook on how we can make this happen. (I am not trying to sell books; this isn’t about me.) If you want to add your voice and help start making the change we need to create, continue the conversation by emailing me at <a href=\"mailto:christy.lamagna@strategic.events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">christy.lamagna@strategic.events</a> or follow me <a href=\"http://twitter.com/smechristy\">@SMEChristy</a>.\r\n\r\n<em>For more tips, connect with us on Twitter <a href=\"http://twitter.com/socialtables/\">@socialtables</a> and on <a href=\"http://facebook.com/socialtables/\">Facebook</a>.</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight, Strategic Event </em><em>Planning, Strategic Planners, Event Planning, Event Planners, Event Strategist, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Strategic Event Planning, Event Planning Profession, Strategic Event Planning Profession, Social Tables</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"https://www.socialtables.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-5034\" title=\"Social Tables Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/logo.png\" alt=\"Social Tables Logo\" width=\"364\" height=\"78\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight','','inherit','closed','closed','','5021-autosave-v1','','','2018-02-06 21:02:56','2018-02-06 21:02:56','',5021,'https://strategic.events/5021-autosave-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10109,3,'2018-02-06 21:02:07','2018-02-06 21:02:07','<h2>Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nWhat if I told you I wanted to personally orchestrate the end of the meeting and <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-insight-event-planners/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategic event planning</a> profession as we know it today? Not only that, but I bet that by the time you have finished reading this blog, you are going to not just agree with me but you’re going to join me in my quest.\r\n\r\nLet’s start with some basic facts you may not know about our industry:\r\n\r\nMeeting Planner’s International cites the Economic Impact of meetings on our economy as:\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>Approximately 1.8 million meetings and events occur in the U.S. each year, resulting direct contributions to the economy including:\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>$280 billion in spending</li>\r\n 	<li>$115 billion contribution to GDP</li>\r\n 	<li>$14.8 billion federal tax revenue</li>\r\n 	<li>$13.2 billion state and local tax revenue</li>\r\n 	<li>$66.8 billion in labor income</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n 	<li>Meetings and events contribute more to the GDP than the air transportation, motion picture, sound recording, performing arts and the spectator sport industries.</li>\r\n 	<li>Combined direct, indirect and induced effects of the meeting industry to GDP totals $393 billion.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<img class=\"alignnone wp-image-15613\" title=\"There is a nearly universal misinterpretation of why meetings are held, the value they can bring, and what meeting professionals do. As a result, both the public at large and our employers undervalue the vast array of talents and value we provide. Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight from the event planning profession\" src=\"http://2lkcp81qv9i72rn88i4dfqq1-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/pen-writing-notes-studying.jpg\" alt=\"There is a nearly universal misinterpretation of why meetings are held, the value they can bring, and what meeting professionals do. As a result, both the public at large and our employers undervalue the vast array of talents and value we provide. Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight from the event planning profession\" width=\"764\" height=\"509\" />\r\n\r\nWith these statistics from five years ago, touting those very notable results, imagine if we could find a report with today’s statistics? (It’s curious that there doesn’t seem to be one out there.) Either way, the figures are impressive. Why then, are we the people who drive all that economic wealth often undervalued?\r\n\r\n<strong>There is a nearly universal misinterpretation of why meetings are held, the value they can bring, and what meeting professionals do. As a result, both the public at large and our employers undervalue the vast array of talents and value we provide.</strong>\r\n<div class=\"tm-tweet-clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"tm-tweet-clear\">To prove my point, I’ve created the quiz below:</div>\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>\r\n<h3>You consider yourself a/an</h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>A. Event planner</li>\r\n 	<li>B. Meeting planner</li>\r\n 	<li>C. Event marketer</li>\r\n 	<li>D. Party planner</li>\r\n 	<li>E. Call me whatever you like; I do it all</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n 	<li>\r\n<h3>You are talking to someone you just met who asks you what you do for a living. When you tell them you plan events they say:</h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>A. OOOH, you are SO lucky you get to plan parties for a living!</li>\r\n 	<li>B. Would you pack me in your suitcase and take me with you on your next trip?</li>\r\n 	<li>C. That sounds like so much fun!</li>\r\n 	<li>D. I have a friend/colleague/relative who wants to be a planner. Can he/she call you?</li>\r\n 	<li>E. All of the above</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n 	<li>\r\n<h3>The last time you asked your boss for additional headcount:</h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>A. You were told it wasn’t in the budget</li>\r\n 	<li>B. You did the work yourself while you waited for a reply that either never came or was a ‘no’</li>\r\n 	<li>C. You were told you could have a few hours of an admin’s time each week instead</li>\r\n 	<li>D. You realized even if you could hire someone you don’t have time to train them</li>\r\n 	<li>E. All of the above</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n 	<li>\r\n<h3>When you think about your career which of the following are true:</h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>A. I am highly respected by my peers, management team and colleagues</li>\r\n 	<li>B. I am an integral part of all decisions effecting events and event marketing</li>\r\n 	<li>C. My time is valued and people I work with and support understand what it takes to do my job</li>\r\n 	<li>D. I am regarded as a trained professional whose skills are an essential part of the organization’s success</li>\r\n 	<li>E. None of the above</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-5051\" title=\"What if I told you I wanted to personally orchestrate the end of the meeting and event planning profession as we know it today? Strategic event planning is\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/stewart.jpg\" alt=\"What if I told you I wanted to personally orchestrate the end of the meeting and event planning profession as we know it today? Strategic event planning is\" width=\"209\" height=\"391\" />My bet you answered “E” to every question. How is it that we, who power the industry that contributes $393 billion to the economy each year are often undervalued, underutilized and not considered integral parts of an organization’s executive team? Before you blame your boss, you need to realize that you may unknowingly be a part of the problem.\r\n\r\nConsider this: when the air travel industry began, stewardesses staffed the cabins. The catchphrase, ‘Coffee, Tea or Me?’ was the unofficial tagline for the beautiful ‘’sky waitresses” who had to be single, fall into a particular weight and height category and who flirted with passengers as a required part of their job. Today, flight attendants dress professionally, keep a watchful eye over the cabin and are trained and ready to assist in case of an emergency. They <a href=\"https://strategic.events/how-to-become-strategic-planner-change-future/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">changed as an industry</a>, setting new work standards, creating a new work environment and in turn earned respect from their employers and passengers. They changed the course of their career path as they knew they had much more to offer than was being acknowledged.\r\n\r\nEvent professionals are the modern-day equivalent of stewardesses. We allow ourselves to be viewed merely at a surface level. We credit for the myriad of skills required to do our jobs successfully, as an industry we don’t have a cohesive message or mission statement. The one thing we have failed to plan is our career trajectory as a whole.\r\n\r\nI’d like to fix that and I have a plan. It requires us to come together, define our common goal, create a shared vocabulary, standards of excellence and a tools to clearly measure and prove our worth. In order for the profession to not just evolve, but survive, we must become ‘Event Strategists’ and plan according to the principles that define and drive strategic events.\r\n\r\nAs ‘<a href=\"https://strategic.events/event-strategist/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Event Strategists</a>,’ our mission will be to create goal-oriented events in alignment with an organization’s sales and marketing goals. There is a defined process on how this is done and how results are measured. In the world of <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Strategic</a> Event Planning the concept of having anyone but a trained, qualified, certified professional produce events will be akin to having your hairdresser perform your root canal; it is not about making something look pretty. You need a skilled professional to do the job correctly.\r\n\r\nYou can start making a difference today by incorporating the below into your work day. Each is the topic for a future posting that will dive deeper into each point.\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>Always start with the end in mind; what is your goal? If you don’t know, you aren’t ready to begin</li>\r\n 	<li>Remember that it isn’t about you; that applies to menu choices, giveaways, destinations; all event related decisions need objective eyes on them</li>\r\n 	<li>You have to answer the critical question of, ‘What’s in it for me’ to inspire anyone to do anything; especially attend an event that is not an internal audience.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\nI have a comprehensive game plan to share and am literally writing the textbook on how we can make this happen. (I am not trying to sell books; this isn’t about me.) If you want to add your voice and help start making the change we need to create, continue the conversation by emailing me at <a href=\"mailto:christy.lamagna@strategic.events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">christy.lamagna@strategic.events</a> or follow me <a href=\"http://twitter.com/smechristy\">@SMEChristy</a>.\r\n\r\n<em>For more tips, connect with us on Twitter <a href=\"http://twitter.com/socialtables/\">@socialtables</a> and on <a href=\"http://facebook.com/socialtables/\">Facebook</a>.</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight, Strategic Event </em><em>Planning, Strategic Planners, Event Planning, Event Planners, Event Strategist, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Strategic Event Planning, Event Planning Profession, Strategic Event Planning Profession, Social Tables</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"https://www.socialtables.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-5034\" title=\"Social Tables Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/logo.png\" alt=\"Social Tables Logo\" width=\"364\" height=\"78\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight','','inherit','closed','closed','','5021-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 21:02:07','2018-02-06 21:02:07','',5021,'https://strategic.events/5021-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10110,3,'2018-02-06 21:07:43','2018-02-06 21:07:43','<h2>Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nWhat if I told you I wanted to personally orchestrate the end of the meeting and strategic event planning profession as we know it today? Not only that, but I bet that by the time you have finished reading this blog, you are going to not just agree with me but you’re going to join me in my quest.\r\n\r\nLet’s start with some basic facts you may not know about our industry:\r\n\r\nMeeting Planner’s International cites the Economic Impact of meetings on our economy as:\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>Approximately 1.8 million meetings and events occur in the U.S. each year, resulting direct contributions to the economy including:\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>$280 billion in spending</li>\r\n 	<li>$115 billion contribution to GDP</li>\r\n 	<li>$14.8 billion federal tax revenue</li>\r\n 	<li>$13.2 billion state and local tax revenue</li>\r\n 	<li>$66.8 billion in labor income</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n 	<li>Meetings and events contribute more to the GDP than the air transportation, motion picture, sound recording, performing arts and the spectator sport industries.</li>\r\n 	<li>Combined direct, indirect and induced effects of the meeting industry to GDP totals $393 billion.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<img class=\"alignnone wp-image-15613\" title=\"There is a nearly universal misinterpretation of why meetings are held, the value they can bring, and what meeting professionals do. As a result, both the public at large and our employers undervalue the vast array of talents and value we provide. Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight from the event planning profession\" src=\"http://2lkcp81qv9i72rn88i4dfqq1-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/pen-writing-notes-studying.jpg\" alt=\"There is a nearly universal misinterpretation of why meetings are held, the value they can bring, and what meeting professionals do. As a result, both the public at large and our employers undervalue the vast array of talents and value we provide. Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight from the event planning profession\" width=\"764\" height=\"509\" />\r\n\r\nWith these statistics from five years ago, touting those very notable results, imagine if we could find a report with today’s statistics? (It’s curious that there doesn’t seem to be one out there.) Either way, the figures are impressive. Why then, are we the people who drive all that economic wealth often undervalued?\r\n\r\n<strong>There is a nearly universal misinterpretation of why meetings are held, the value they can bring, and what meeting professionals do. As a result, both the public at large and our employers undervalue the vast array of talents and value we provide.</strong>\r\n<div class=\"tm-tweet-clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"tm-tweet-clear\">To prove my point, I’ve created the quiz below:</div>\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>\r\n<h3>You consider yourself a/an</h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>A. Event planner</li>\r\n 	<li>B. Meeting planner</li>\r\n 	<li>C. Event marketer</li>\r\n 	<li>D. Party planner</li>\r\n 	<li>E. Call me whatever you like; I do it all</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n 	<li>\r\n<h3>You are talking to someone you just met who asks you what you do for a living. When you tell them you plan events they say:</h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>A. OOOH, you are SO lucky you get to plan parties for a living!</li>\r\n 	<li>B. Would you pack me in your suitcase and take me with you on your next trip?</li>\r\n 	<li>C. That sounds like so much fun!</li>\r\n 	<li>D. I have a friend/colleague/relative who wants to be a planner. Can he/she call you?</li>\r\n 	<li>E. All of the above</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n 	<li>\r\n<h3>The last time you asked your boss for additional headcount:</h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>A. You were told it wasn’t in the budget</li>\r\n 	<li>B. You did the work yourself while you waited for a reply that either never came or was a ‘no’</li>\r\n 	<li>C. You were told you could have a few hours of an admin’s time each week instead</li>\r\n 	<li>D. You realized even if you could hire someone you don’t have time to train them</li>\r\n 	<li>E. All of the above</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n 	<li>\r\n<h3>When you think about your career which of the following are true:</h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>A. I am highly respected by my peers, management team and colleagues</li>\r\n 	<li>B. I am an integral part of all decisions effecting events and event marketing</li>\r\n 	<li>C. My time is valued and people I work with and support understand what it takes to do my job</li>\r\n 	<li>D. I am regarded as a trained professional whose skills are an essential part of the organization’s success</li>\r\n 	<li>E. None of the above</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-5051\" title=\"What if I told you I wanted to personally orchestrate the end of the meeting and event planning profession as we know it today? Strategic event planning is\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/stewart.jpg\" alt=\"What if I told you I wanted to personally orchestrate the end of the meeting and event planning profession as we know it today? Strategic event planning is\" width=\"209\" height=\"391\" />My bet you answered “E” to every question. How is it that we, who power the industry that contributes $393 billion to the economy each year are often undervalued, underutilized and not considered integral parts of an organization’s executive team? Before you blame your boss, you need to realize that you may unknowingly be a part of the problem.\r\n\r\nConsider this: when the air travel industry began, stewardesses staffed the cabins. The catchphrase, ‘Coffee, Tea or Me?’ was the unofficial tagline for the beautiful ‘’sky waitresses” who had to be single, fall into a particular weight and height category and who flirted with passengers as a required part of their job. Today, flight attendants dress professionally, keep a watchful eye over the cabin and are trained and ready to assist in case of an emergency. They <a href=\"https://strategic.events/how-to-become-strategic-planner-change-future/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">changed as an industry</a>, setting new work standards, creating a new work environment and in turn earned respect from their employers and passengers. They changed the course of their career path as they knew they had much more to offer than was being acknowledged.\r\n\r\nEvent professionals are the modern-day equivalent of stewardesses. We allow ourselves to be viewed merely at a surface level. We credit for the myriad of skills required to do our jobs successfully, as an industry we don’t have a cohesive message or mission statement. The one thing we have failed to plan is our career trajectory as a whole.\r\n\r\nI’d like to fix that and I have a plan. It requires us to come together, define our common goal, create a shared vocabulary, standards of excellence and a tools to clearly measure and prove our worth. In order for the profession to not just evolve, but survive, we must become ‘Event Strategists’ and plan according to the principles that define and drive strategic events.\r\n\r\nAs ‘<a href=\"https://strategic.events/event-strategist/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Event Strategists</a>,’ our mission will be to create goal-oriented events in alignment with an organization’s sales and marketing goals. There is a defined process on how this is done and how results are measured. In the world of <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Strategic</a> Event Planning the concept of having anyone but a trained, qualified, certified professional produce events will be akin to having your hairdresser perform your root canal; it is not about making something look pretty. You need a skilled professional to do the job correctly.\r\n\r\nYou can start making a difference today by incorporating the below into your work day. Each is the topic for a future posting that will dive deeper into each point.\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>Always start with the end in mind; what is your goal? If you don’t know, you aren’t ready to begin</li>\r\n 	<li>Remember that it isn’t about you; that applies to menu choices, giveaways, destinations; all event related decisions need objective eyes on them</li>\r\n 	<li>You have to answer the critical question of, ‘What’s in it for me’ to inspire anyone to do anything; especially attend an event that is not an internal audience.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\nI have a comprehensive game plan to share and am literally writing the textbook on how we can make this happen. (I am not trying to sell books; this isn’t about me.) If you want to add your voice and help start making the change we need to create, continue the conversation by emailing me at <a href=\"mailto:christy.lamagna@strategic.events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">christy.lamagna@strategic.events</a> or follow me <a href=\"http://twitter.com/smechristy\">@SMEChristy</a>.\r\n\r\n<em>For more tips, connect with us on Twitter <a href=\"http://twitter.com/socialtables/\">@socialtables</a> and on <a href=\"http://facebook.com/socialtables/\">Facebook</a>.</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight, Strategic Event </em><em>Planning, Strategic Planners, Event Planning, Event Planners, Event Strategist, Strategic Events, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Strategic Event Planning, Event Planning Profession, Strategic Event Planning Profession, Social Tables</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"https://www.socialtables.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-5034\" title=\"Social Tables Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/logo.png\" alt=\"Social Tables Logo\" width=\"364\" height=\"78\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Strategic Event Planning Takes Flight','','inherit','closed','closed','','5021-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 21:07:43','2018-02-06 21:07:43','',5021,'https://strategic.events/5021-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10111,3,'2018-02-06 21:13:23','2018-02-06 21:13:23','<h2>The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast | Event Planners</h2>\r\n<h3>Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-5111\" title=\"Having been a Vice President of a Fortune 50 company, and a member of five start-up organizations, Christy\'s strategic insight and creativity will make all your events truly memorable experiences. Listen now to, The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast with Event Planner and Master Strategist: Christy Lamagna\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/2743534799_e1c988d6be_b.jpg\" alt=\"Having been a Vice President of a Fortune 50 company, and a member of five start-up organizations, Christy\'s strategic insight and creativity will make all your events truly memorable experiences. Listen now to, The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast with Event Planner and Master Strategist: Christy Lamagna\" width=\"312\" height=\"209\" />Having been a Vice President of a Fortune 50 company, and a member of five start-up organizations, Christy\'s strategic insight and creativity will make all your events truly memorable experiences. She understands the myriad of challenges corporate event <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planners</a> face, and brings a \'can-do\' attitude to each event.\r\n\r\nWith 20 years of industry experience, Christy has worked on events ranging in size from 150,000, to intimate Board of Directors meetings and places the same attention to delivering exceptional results on all of SME\'s programs. Her experience running and producing tradeshows, building and executing highly profitable sponsorship programs, speech writing and speaker coaching, production acumen and her contract negotiation savvy give her a breadth and depth of experience that few in the industry share.\r\n\r\nAs a frequent speaker, contributor to industry publications and professor of meeting and event management, Christy has dedicated her career to the industry and raising the bar on how programs are produced. Remembering that laughter and having fun is a key component to any successful endeavor, Christy blends professionalism with a sense of humor and an unwavering commitment to excellence.\r\n\r\n[audio mp3=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/ChristyLamagnaFromStrategicEvents_EPAPodcastInterviewWithSethGreene.mp3\"][/audio]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast, Event Planners, Event Planners Podcast, Strategic Planners, Event Planning, Strategic Planning, Strategic Events, Podcast, Corporate Events, Corporate Meetings, Event Planners Podcast</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-event-planner-associations-podcast-event-planners/id1085114692?mt=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-5113 size-full\" title=\"Event Planners Association Podcast\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/170x170bb.jpg\" alt=\"Event Planners Association Podcast\" width=\"170\" height=\"170\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast | Event Planner: Christy Lamagna','','inherit','closed','closed','','5109-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 21:13:23','2018-02-06 21:13:23','',5109,'https://strategic.events/5109-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10112,3,'2018-02-06 21:17:40','2018-02-06 21:17:40','<h2>The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast with Christy Lamagna</h2>\r\n<h3>Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-5111\" title=\"Having been a Vice President of a Fortune 50 company, and a member of five start-up organizations, Christy\'s strategic insight and creativity will make all your events truly memorable experiences. Listen now to, The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast with Event Planner and Master Strategist: Christy Lamagna\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/2743534799_e1c988d6be_b.jpg\" alt=\"Having been a Vice President of a Fortune 50 company, and a member of five start-up organizations, Christy\'s strategic insight and creativity will make all your events truly memorable experiences. Listen now to, The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast with Christy Lamagna\" width=\"312\" height=\"209\" />Having been a Vice President of a Fortune 50 company, and a member of five start-up organizations, Christy\'s strategic insight and creativity will make all your events truly memorable experiences. She understands the myriad of challenges corporate event <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planners</a> face, and brings a \'can-do\' attitude to each event.\r\n\r\nWith 20 years of industry experience, Christy has worked on events ranging in size from 150,000, to intimate Board of Directors meetings and places the same attention to delivering exceptional results on all of SME\'s programs. Her experience running and producing tradeshows, building and executing highly profitable sponsorship programs, speech writing and speaker coaching, production acumen and her contract negotiation savvy give her a breadth and depth of experience that few in the industry share.\r\n\r\nAs a frequent speaker, contributor to industry publications and professor of meeting and event management, Christy has dedicated her career to the industry and raising the bar on how programs are produced. Remembering that laughter and having fun is a key component to any successful endeavor, Christy blends professionalism with a sense of humor and an unwavering commitment to excellence.\r\n\r\n[audio mp3=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/ChristyLamagnaFromStrategicEvents_EPAPodcastInterviewWithSethGreene.mp3\"][/audio]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast, Event Planners, Event Planners Podcast, Strategic Planners, Event Planning, Strategic Planning, Strategic Events, Podcast, Corporate Events, Corporate Meetings, Event Planners Podcast</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-event-planner-associations-podcast-event-planners/id1085114692?mt=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-5113 size-full\" title=\"Event Planners Association Podcast\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/170x170bb.jpg\" alt=\"Event Planners Association Podcast\" width=\"170\" height=\"170\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast with Christy Lamagna','','inherit','closed','closed','','5109-autosave-v1','','','2018-02-06 21:17:40','2018-02-06 21:17:40','',5109,'https://strategic.events/5109-autosave-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10113,3,'2018-02-06 21:15:18','2018-02-06 21:15:18','<h2>The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast with Christy Lamagna</h2>\r\n<h3>Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-5111\" title=\"Having been a Vice President of a Fortune 50 company, and a member of five start-up organizations, Christy\'s strategic insight and creativity will make all your events truly memorable experiences. Listen now to, The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast with Event Planner and Master Strategist: Christy Lamagna\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/2743534799_e1c988d6be_b.jpg\" alt=\"Having been a Vice President of a Fortune 50 company, and a member of five start-up organizations, Christy\'s strategic insight and creativity will make all your events truly memorable experiences. Listen now to, The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast with Christy Lamagna\" width=\"312\" height=\"209\" />Having been a Vice President of a Fortune 50 company, and a member of five start-up organizations, Christy\'s strategic insight and creativity will make all your events truly memorable experiences. She understands the myriad of challenges corporate event <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planners</a> face, and brings a \'can-do\' attitude to each event.\r\n\r\nWith 20 years of industry experience, Christy has worked on events ranging in size from 150,000, to intimate Board of Directors meetings and places the same attention to delivering exceptional results on all of SME\'s programs. Her experience running and producing tradeshows, building and executing highly profitable sponsorship programs, speech writing and speaker coaching, production acumen and her contract negotiation savvy give her a breadth and depth of experience that few in the industry share.\r\n\r\nAs a frequent speaker, contributor to industry publications and professor of meeting and event management, Christy has dedicated her career to the industry and raising the bar on how programs are produced. Remembering that laughter and having fun is a key component to any successful endeavor, Christy blends professionalism with a sense of humor and an unwavering commitment to excellence.\r\n\r\n[audio mp3=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/ChristyLamagnaFromStrategicEvents_EPAPodcastInterviewWithSethGreene.mp3\"][/audio]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast, Event Planners, Event Planners Podcast, Strategic Planners, Event Planning, Strategic Planning, Strategic Events, Podcast, Corporate Events, Corporate Meetings, Event Planners Podcast</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-event-planner-associations-podcast-event-planners/id1085114692?mt=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-5113 size-full\" title=\"Event Planners Association Podcast\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/170x170bb.jpg\" alt=\"Event Planners Association Podcast\" width=\"170\" height=\"170\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','The Event Planner Association\'s Podcast with Christy Lamagna','','inherit','closed','closed','','5109-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 21:15:18','2018-02-06 21:15:18','',5109,'https://strategic.events/5109-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10115,3,'2018-02-06 21:28:59','2018-02-06 21:28:59','[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1511990244219{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"]\r\n<h1>SME\'s Social Media Channels</h1>\r\n<h2>Check out the below feeds and connect with us!</h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=\"1/2\"][mk_fancy_title font_family=\"none\"]<a href=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8063\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/2475.new-instagram-text-logo.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"104\" /></a>[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1511994101680{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"][fts_instagram instagram_id=2012979101 pics_count=10 type=user width=100 height=1100px profile_wrap=yes popup=no profile_photo=no profile_stats=yes profile_name=yes profile_description=no super_gallery=yes columns=2 force_columns=no space_between_photos=1 icon_size=65px hide_date_likes_comments=no loadmore=autoscroll loadmore_count=5 loadmore_btn_maxwidth=300px loadmore_btn_margin=10px][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/2\"][mk_fancy_title font_family=\"none\"]<a href=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8065\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/tech-facebook-1024x202.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"79\" /></a>[/mk_fancy_title][mk_padding_divider size=\"30\"][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1511993345476{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"][fts_facebook type=page id=104662352967791 posts=4 title=yes title_align=left description=no show_media=bottom show_thumbnail=no show_date=no show_name=no words=100 popup=yes grid=yes posts_displayed=page_only image_stack_animation=no colmn_width=250px space_between_posts=5px show_follow_btn_where=below_title like_option_align=left like_box_width=500px hide_like_option=no hide_comments_popup=yes loadmore=button loadmore_btn_maxwidth=300px loadmore_btn_margin=10px][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=\"1/2\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"25\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"25\"][mk_fancy_title font_family=\"none\"]<a href=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8091\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/7194920_orig.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"85\" /></a>[/mk_fancy_title][mk_padding_divider size=\"5\"][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517847414872{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"][fts_twitter twitter_name=SME_Events tweets_count=5 twitter_height=500px cover_photo=yes stats_bar=yes show_retweets=yes show_replies=no grid=yes popup=yes loadmore=button loadmore_count=1 loadmore_btn_maxwidth=300px loadmore_btn_margin=10px colmn_width=250 space_between_posts=5][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/2\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"25\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"25\"][mk_fancy_title font_family=\"none\"]<a href=\"https://www.pinterest.com/strategicmeetingsevents/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8093\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/pinterest_logo_red.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"86\" /></a>[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1517952534267{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"][fts_pinterest type=single_board_pins pinterest_name=strategicmeetingsevents board_id=event-planning-resources pins_count=14][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][mk_fancy_title font_family=\"none\"]<a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsuJ-F1Ot1zSc1ccpj_DzXA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8098\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/download.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"89\" /></a>[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text css=\".vc_custom_1515445885931{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}\"][fts_youtube vid_count=16 large_vid=yes large_vid_title=no large_vid_description=no thumbs_play_in_iframe=popup vids_in_row=2 omit_first_thumbnail=yes space_between_videos=0px force_columns=no maxres_thumbnail_images=yes thumbs_wrap_color=#1d1848 wrap=left video_wrap_display=2 comments_count=0 channel_id=UCsuJ-F1Ot1zSc1ccpj_DzXA][/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][mk_social_networks size=\"medium\" style=\"simple-rounded\" border_color=\"#000050\" bg_color=\"#000050\" bg_hover_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_hover_color=\"#000050\" align=\"center\" facebook=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" twitter=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" pinterest=\"https://www.pinterest.com/strategicmeetingsevents/\" instagram=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" linkedin=\"https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-meetings-&amp;-events\" youtube=\"https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsuJ-F1Ot1zSc1ccpj_DzXA\"][vc_raw_js]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[/vc_raw_js][/vc_column][/vc_row]','SME Social Media: Connect With Us','','inherit','closed','closed','','8041-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 21:28:59','2018-02-06 21:28:59','',8041,'https://strategic.events/8041-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10116,3,'2018-02-06 21:36:13','2018-02-06 21:36:13','<h2>What It Takes to Be a True Master of Content</h2>\r\n<h3>Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nAn <a href=\"https://strategic.events/party-planner-to-event-strategist/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">event strategist</a> knows that content is the key to a successful meeting. While the logistics are important, they are all too often prioritized over a well-run general session and breakouts. I have found the two main culprits for this to be:\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>Most planners don’t find content to be as “sexy” as the front-of-house logistics.</li>\r\n 	<li>We don’t know how to strategically manage content.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Strategic planners</a> focus solely on an event’s goals and making sure every aspect of a program tracks back to achieving those goals. From room setup and menus to content and its delivery, every program element is a tool to further the designated message.\r\n\r\n<strong>Take on the Content Challenge</strong>\r\nTraditionally, business meetings are held to deliver a message. That message is most often communicated with content. (Networking or incentive trips can fall outside this rule.) That message is usually conveyed formally via a speaker presenting in front of an audience. Nothing new here.\r\n\r\nBut this is the challenge: Have you ever looked at those slides in advance, edited them for accuracy, copyedited them, taken them as a whole and made sure they aren’t redundant or conflicting? Reformatted for optimal presentation?\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-5103\" title=\"An event strategist knows that content is the key to a successful meeting. While the logistics are important, they are all too often prioritized over a well-run general session and breakouts. What It Takes to Be a True Master of Content\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Puzzle-Piece.png\" alt=\"An event strategist knows that content is the key to a successful meeting. While the logistics are important, they are all too often prioritized over a well-run general session and breakouts. What It Takes to Be a True Master of Content\" width=\"399\" height=\"225\" />Have you considered presentation length versus the average attention span of the listening audience? What about projection quality and screen size to the room? How many handheld and lavalier mics? Having “Voice of God” versus an emcee? Using transition slides? Still store graphics? Play-on and play-off music? Programming for confidence monitors? Should you arrange speaker run-throughs and blocking?\r\n\r\nIf any of this has your head spinning and/or sounds like gibberish, we need to talk. In order to deliver an effective, goal-achieving event, a strategic planner has to know how to program a general session, vet and handle speakers, audit content, understand the principles of adult learning, and know how to create a solid rundown sheet, complete with cues.\r\n\r\nIf you don’t have the time, bandwidth, or desire to do any of the above, you need to get familiar enough with the concepts to hire someone to do the work for you. Hint: if you’re hiring in-house AV because it’s never occurred to you to do otherwise, I’m talking to you. Please don’t roll your eyes and say you can’t afford it. Cut the floral budget and invest in what matters. No executive is going to sell more widgets citing inspiration from a centerpiece.\r\n\r\nLet’s get a conversation started.\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>On average, how much time do you spend on the general session production and content versus program logistics?</li>\r\n 	<li>If you were tasked with evaluating speakers and hiring keynotes, how comfortable would you be doing that?</li>\r\n 	<li>Do you see the value in investing in meeting content? Do your executives?</li>\r\n</ol>\r\nFor more on the must-do’s and must-knows for successful content delivery and other topics, click <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/strategic-event-planning-resources/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: What It Takes to Be a True Master of Content, Strategic Planners, Event Planners, Strategic Planning, Strategic Events, Event Planning, Corporate Events, Corporate Meetings, General Session, MeetingsNet</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.meetingsnet.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1342 size-full\" title=\"MeetingsNet Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/MeetingsNet.png\" alt=\"MeetingsNet Logo\" width=\"170\" height=\"33\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','What It Takes to Be a True Master of Content','','inherit','closed','closed','','5099-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 21:36:13','2018-02-06 21:36:13','',5099,'https://strategic.events/5099-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10117,3,'2018-02-06 21:43:42','2018-02-06 21:43:42','<h2>What It Takes to Be a True Master of Content</h2>\r\n<h3>Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\nAn <a href=\"https://strategic.events/party-planner-to-event-strategist/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">event strategist</a> knows that content is the key to a successful meeting. While the logistics are important, a true master of content knows they are all too often prioritized over a well-run general session and breakouts. I have found the two main culprits for this to be:\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>Most planners don’t find content to be as “sexy” as the front-of-house logistics.</li>\r\n 	<li>We don’t know how to strategically manage content.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Strategic planners</a> focus solely on an event’s goals and making sure every aspect of a program tracks back to achieving those goals. From room setup and menus to content and its delivery, every program element is a tool to further the designated message.\r\n\r\n<strong>Take on the Content Challenge</strong>\r\nTraditionally, business meetings are held to deliver a message. That message is most often communicated with content. (Networking or incentive trips can fall outside this rule.) That message is usually conveyed formally via a speaker presenting in front of an audience. Nothing new here.\r\n\r\nBut this is the challenge: Have you ever looked at those slides in advance, edited them for accuracy, copyedited them, taken them as a whole and made sure they aren’t redundant or conflicting? Reformatted for optimal presentation?\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-5103\" title=\"An event strategist knows that content is the key to a successful meeting. While the logistics are important, they are all too often prioritized over a well-run general session and breakouts. What It Takes to Be a True Master of Content\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Puzzle-Piece.png\" alt=\"An event strategist knows that content is the key to a successful meeting. While the logistics are important, they are all too often prioritized over a well-run general session and breakouts. What It Takes to Be a True Master of Content\" width=\"399\" height=\"225\" />Have you considered presentation length versus the average attention span of the listening audience? What about projection quality and screen size to the room? How many handheld and lavalier mics? Having “Voice of God” versus an emcee? Using transition slides? Still store graphics? Play-on and play-off music? Programming for confidence monitors? Should you arrange speaker run-throughs and blocking?\r\n\r\nIf any of this has your head spinning and/or sounds like gibberish, we need to talk. In order to deliver an effective, goal-achieving event, a strategic planner has to know how to program a general session, vet and handle speakers, audit content, understand the principles of adult learning, and know how to create a solid rundown sheet, complete with cues.\r\n\r\nIf you don’t have the time, bandwidth, or desire to do any of the above, you need to get familiar enough with the concepts to hire someone to do the work for you. Hint: if you’re hiring in-house AV because it’s never occurred to you to do otherwise, I’m talking to you. Please don’t roll your eyes and say you can’t afford it. Cut the floral budget and invest in what matters. No executive is going to sell more widgets citing inspiration from a centerpiece.\r\n\r\nLet’s get a conversation started.\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>On average, how much time do you spend on the general session production and content versus program logistics?</li>\r\n 	<li>If you were tasked with evaluating speakers and hiring keynotes, how comfortable would you be doing that?</li>\r\n 	<li>Do you see the value in investing in meeting content? Do your executives?</li>\r\n</ol>\r\nFor more on the must-do’s and must-knows for successful content delivery and other topics, click <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/strategic-event-planning-resources/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: What It Takes to Be a True Master of Content, Strategic Planners, Event Planners, Strategic Planning, Strategic Events, Event Planning, Corporate Events, Corporate Meetings, General Session, MeetingsNet</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.meetingsnet.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1342 size-full\" title=\"MeetingsNet Logo\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/MeetingsNet.png\" alt=\"MeetingsNet Logo\" width=\"170\" height=\"33\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','What It Takes to Be a True Master of Content','','inherit','closed','closed','','5099-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 21:43:42','2018-02-06 21:43:42','',5099,'https://strategic.events/5099-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10118,3,'2018-02-06 21:47:53','2018-02-06 21:47:53','[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n<h2>Global Meetings Industry Day</h2>\r\nHappy second annual, GMID and hats off to <a href=\"http://www.meetingsmeanbusiness.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Meetings Mean Business</a> and the <a href=\"http://www.conventionindustry.org/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Convention Industry Council</a> for starting the movement. There’s so much to celebrate and be proud of. The statistics for the meeting industry’s impact on the economy are staggering. According to <a href=\"http://www.mpiweb.org/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Meeting Planners International</a> the meetings industry contributes $393 Billion to the US’ Gross Domestic Product, employing professionals in the travel, tourism hospitality, and entertainment industry in addition to a host of others.\r\n\r\nWe are a profession of seemingly tireless individuals, whose inexhaustible energies and passion bring people together to motivate, educate and celebrate, and most of the time, while simultaneously accelerating an organization’s sales cycle. Today, without borders or boundaries, we stand together and unite and give a voice to our efforts. So, make some noise and let the world hear us roar!\r\n\r\nThe Strategic Meetings &amp; Events team stands proud and tall on Global Meetings Industry Day. Our mission, today and every day, is to elevate the status of the talented individuals who have chosen this field and to help them earn the respect and recognition they deserve.[/vc_column_text][mk_padding_divider][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Christy1.jpg\" image_size=\"large\" lightbox=\"true\" frame_style=\"border_shadow\"][vc_column_text]\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</strong>\r\n<strong>Visionary | Entrepreneur | Strategist</strong></h3>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">“Don\'t support meetings one day a year. Join the Strategic Planning Movement and build our <a href=\"https://strategic.events/time-event-industry-plan-future/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">future</a>.”</h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][vc_tweetmeme share_text_page_title=\"\" share_text_custom_text=\"“Don\'t support meetings one day a year. Join the strategic movement and build our future.`` - @SMEChristy\" share_hashtag=\"GMID17\"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Spacer-III.png\" image_size=\"full\" align=\"center\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">\"Meetings support sales so support your sales meetings.\"</h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][vc_tweetmeme share_text_page_title=\"\" share_text_custom_text=\"``Meetings support sales so support your sales meetings.`` - @LisaDooley31\" share_via=\"SME_Events\" share_recommend=\"LisaDooley31\" share_hashtag=\"GMID17 #Eventprofs\"][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/LisaGMID17.jpg\" image_size=\"medium\" lightbox=\"true\" frame_style=\"border_shadow\"][vc_column_text]\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Lisa Dooley</strong>\r\n<strong>Director of Strategy and Operations</strong>\r\n<strong>\"A Woman with a Plan\"</strong></h3>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Spacer-III.png\" image_size=\"full\" align=\"center\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/James-at-desk-holding-sign-2017-002.jpg\" image_size=\"large\" lightbox=\"true\" frame_style=\"border_shadow\"][vc_column_text]\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>James Rota</strong>\r\n<strong>Director of Imagination</strong>\r\n<strong>\"The Creator of All Things Fabulous\"</strong></h3>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">\"Creative energies soar when people come together.\"</h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][vc_tweetmeme share_text_page_title=\"\" share_text_custom_text=\"``Creative energies soar when people come together.`` - @Dazzlevents\" share_via=\"SME_Events\" share_recommend=\"Dazzlevents\" share_hashtag=\"GMID17 #Eventprofs\"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Spacer-III.png\" image_size=\"full\" align=\"center\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">\"Face to face meetings are paramount to forming true relationships.\"</h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][vc_tweetmeme share_text_page_title=\"\" share_text_custom_text=\"``Face to face meetings are paramount to forming true relationships.`` - @SMPEventsLLC\" share_via=\"SME_Events\" share_recommend=\"SMPEventsLLC\" share_hashtag=\"GMID17\"][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Sanece1.jpg\" image_size=\"large\" lightbox=\"true\" frame_style=\"border_shadow\"][vc_column_text]\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Sanece Marie Poolas</strong>\r\n<strong>Senior Event Strategist</strong>\r\n<strong>\"Our Own Mary Poppins\"</strong></h3>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Spacer-III.png\" image_size=\"full\" align=\"center\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/GMID17-copy-1.jpg\" image_size=\"large\" lightbox=\"true\" frame_style=\"border_shadow\"][vc_column_text]\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Cody Price</strong>\r\n<strong>Media Strategist</strong>\r\n<strong>\"Jedi in Training\"</strong></h3>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">\"Businesses, economies, and communities need F2F meetings.\"</h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][vc_tweetmeme share_text_page_title=\"\" share_text_custom_text=\"``Businesses, economies, and communities need F2F meetings.`` - @Yodynice\" share_via=\"SME_Events\" share_recommend=\"Yodynice\" share_hashtag=\"GMID17 #Eventprofs\"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Spacer-III.png\" image_size=\"full\" align=\"center\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">\"In person interaction is priceless. Virtual meetings are not.\"</h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][vc_tweetmeme share_text_page_title=\"\" share_text_custom_text=\"``In person interaction is priceless. Virtual meetings are not.`` - @sherrifuchs14\" share_via=\"SME_Events\" share_recommend=\"sherrifuchs14\" share_hashtag=\"GMID17 #Eventprofs\"][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Sherri1-1.jpg\" image_size=\"large\" lightbox=\"true\" frame_style=\"border_shadow\"][vc_column_text]\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Sherri Fuchs</strong>\r\n<strong>Event Strategist</strong>\r\n<strong>\"Moves Mountains\"</strong></h3>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Spacer-III.png\" image_size=\"full\" align=\"center\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"10\"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=\"1/3\"][mk_image src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Erin2.jpg\" image_size=\"large\" lightbox=\"true\" frame_style=\"border_shadow\"][vc_column_text]\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Erin Buckley</strong>\r\n<strong>Strategic Support Manager</strong>\r\n<strong>\"Energizer Bunny\"</strong></h3>\r\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=\"2/3\"][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">\"Technology cannot replace a smile and a handshake.\"</h2>\r\n[/vc_column_text][vc_tweetmeme share_text_page_title=\"\" share_text_custom_text=\"``Technology cannot replace a smile and a handshake.`` - @buckleyerin16\" share_via=\"SME_Events\" share_recommend=\"buckleyerin16\" share_hashtag=\"GMID17 #Eventprofs\"][/vc_column][vc_column][mk_padding_divider size=\"30\"][mk_social_networks size=\"medium\" style=\"simple-rounded\" border_color=\"#000050\" bg_color=\"#000050\" bg_hover_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_color=\"#ffffff\" icon_hover_color=\"#000050\" align=\"center\" facebook=\"https://www.facebook.com/StrategicMeetingsEvents\" twitter=\"https://twitter.com/SME_Events\" instagram=\"https://www.instagram.com/strategic.events/\" linkedin=\"https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-meetings-&amp;-events\"][mk_padding_divider size=\"20\"][vc_column_text]Look for SME’s upcoming infographics on event management, social media, and more. Follow us for the latest <a href=\"https://strategic.events/blog/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">blog</a> posts and industry <a href=\"https://strategic.events/articles/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">articles</a>.\r\n\r\nWe use your feedback to shape future articles. Please leave a comment below. We’d love to hear from you.\r\n\r\n[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]','Global Meetings Industry Day','','inherit','closed','closed','','4763-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 21:47:53','2018-02-06 21:47:53','',4763,'https://strategic.events/4763-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10119,3,'2018-02-06 22:00:15','2018-02-06 22:00:15','<h2>Las Vegas: The Meeting Planner\'s Best Friend</h2>\r\n<h3>By Derek Reveron</h3>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_4950\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"860\"]<img class=\"wp-image-4950 size-full\" title=\"Heavyweight meetings destination Las Vegas is like a prizefighter who knows he can never rest on his laurels if he wants to keep winning titles.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CIT-2016-05May-Las_Vegas-860x418.jpg\" alt=\"Heavyweight meetings destination Las Vegas is like a prizefighter who knows he can never rest on his laurels if he wants to keep winning titles.\" width=\"860\" height=\"418\" /> A smoke drums performance by Blue Man Group at the Luxor Hotel &amp; Casino. Credit: Lindsey Best[/caption]\r\n\r\nHeavyweight meetings destination Las Vegas is like a prizefighter who knows he can never rest on his laurels if he wants to keep winning titles.\r\n\r\nThe way Las Vegas sees it, having more than 150,000 hotel rooms, more than 11 million sf of meeting space, and hundreds of resorts, casinos, nightspots and entertainment options isn’t enough. That’s why the destination has more than $7 billion in current and proposed development projects.\r\n\r\nThese include Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino Convention Center, MGM Resorts International’s The Park and Topgolf Las Vegas. Aria Resort &amp; Casino is expanding its convention center; Caesars Entertainment Corporation plans to upgrade more than 4,800 hotel rooms at four Las Vegas properties; and Steve Wynn and Wynn resorts are proposing a new lake resort called Wynn Paradise Park. In addition, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority’s Las Vegas Convention Center District project includes expansion and renovation of the Las Vegas Convention Center.\r\n<h3>“Planners can let Vegas do the work of providing the glitz, glamour and ‘wow’ — attendees will walk away with unforgettable experiences that planners didn’t even have to allocate budgets for.”\r\n— Mike May</h3>\r\nSuch projects will help Las Vegas keep its ranking as the No. 1 trade show destination. Las Vegas topped the Trade Show News Network’s “2015 TSNN Top 250 Trade Shows in the United States” list for the 22nd consecutive year. Las Vegas hosted 54 of the largest trade shows held in the U.S. last year, accounting for about 22,000 meetings and 5.9 million attendees.\r\n\r\nLas Vegas is popular partly because it offers so much that makes life easier for planners. “Vegas is an adult playground and, in many ways, a planner’s best friend,” says Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, president and chief strategist at Strategic Meetings &amp; Events, a Bernardsville, New Jersey-based meetings and incentives firm. “Las Vegas truly has something for everyone in terms of meeting space, pricing and caliber of property. Lift is second to none.”\r\n\r\nIn addition, Las Vegas is a top fine-dining destination. “It is transforming into more of a culinary and entertainment hub rather than just gambling,” adds Lamagna. “Las Vegas allows planners to bring groups with discriminating palates who also have a hunger for live shows and concerts. The city has celebrity chefs and a collective wine list that is staggering.”\r\n\r\nSome of the newest restaurants include the Italian eatery Carbone at Aria Resort &amp; Casino, the restaurant’s first domestic expansion outside of New York City. Other restaurants include Rivea at the Delano Las Vegas; Salute, which offers cuisine from Southern Italy at Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa; and Harvest, a farm-to-table restaurant at Bellagio.\r\n<h2>Meeting Off The Strip</h2>\r\nPopular meeting properties include the 800-room AAA Four Diamond Red Rock Casino, Resort &amp; Spa, the crown jewel of Station Casinos. The Red Rock, located 10 miles off The Strip in Summerlin, was the just-right property for a three-day business meeting with about 300 attendees that CliftonLarsonAllen, a Milwaukee-based professional services firm, held last year.\r\n\r\nCliftonLarsenAllen chose the Red Rock after reviewing a handful of off-The-Strip properties. “Although The Strip has fabulous properties, we preferred to be off-Strip,” says Lisa Jeans, project manager, executive team and firm-wide travel manager. “The Red Rock is a luxury resort offering everything a meeting planner looks for in a resort, but doesn’t have all of the distractions of The Strip.”\r\n\r\nIn addition, says Jeans, the Red Rock is the ultimate self-contained resort. “We actually prefer to stay on-property for our events, and with all the Red Rock has to offer, it makes it easy,” she says. “The food and beverage quality is incredible. The size, location and condition of meeting facilities and rooms are excellent. The service is second to none.”\r\n\r\nMost of all, adds Jeans, the Red Rock offers excellent bang for the buck. “The value received was incredible,” she says. “The room rates you are able to get in Las Vegas are the best rates you can find in a convention-conference city — $75 to $100 per night less than other convention-conference cities during peak times. The Red Rock also made me feel like I was their only client during the planning process, which is invaluable as an event planner.”\r\n\r\nSo far, the Red Rock is the only Las Vegas property that Jeans’ company has used for its principal business meeting. The company plans to return to the property in January for a client meeting. “We are averaging one meeting every other year at the Red Rock,” says Jeans.\r\n<h2>Choosing the Right Property</h2>\r\nLas Vegas has suitable properties for every type of group. However, because Las Vegas is such a unique destination, it’s important to match the meeting with the <a href=\"https://strategic.events/art-small-meeting/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">right property</a> that meets the company’s objective.\r\n\r\nMaking a good match requires planners to consider each group’s expectations and needs for experiencing Las Vegas. “For high-end clients, we are looking at Wynn, Encore, Bellagio, Venetian, Four Seasons, etc.,” says Mike May, president of Irving, Texas-based Spear One, a meetings, incentives and events planning firm. “Another consideration is podium power. For incentive travel programs, where we are trying to motivate participants to earn a trip, we might consider a new or trendy property like the Cosmopolitan.”\r\n\r\nOverall, Las Vegas is perfect for certain types of meetings. “In my opinion, the best types of meetings to host in Las Vegas are larger product launches, customer user groups and trade shows,” says May. “Internal sales kickoff meetings are an interesting paradox. The mega-hotels are fantastic for accommodating such large groups, but may not be the best match for more buttoned-up corporate cultures.”\r\n\r\nPlanners booking small groups in Las Vegas have uniquely different considerations. “Small meetings can get lost in Vegas, so I’d caution those groups to look for intimate environments, or possibly lose attendees,” says May. “If you are a smaller group, consider a boutique property like the Four Seasons at Mandalay Bay or the newly rebranded Nobu Hotel in Caesars Palace.”\r\n\r\nThe demographics of a group — including age, gender, education and regional origin — are also a key in choosing the right Las Vegas property. “Many groups would like to be in the heart of The Strip action, but that isn’t necessarily the right fit for everyone,” says May. Groups looking to cover educational content might want a property farther away in the Henderson area, so attendees won’t lose focus.”\r\n\r\nSome planners want The Strip itself to be part of the meeting experience. “We hired a company to produce a three-hour teambuilding event that focused on critical thinking, <a href=\"https://strategic.events/how-to-become-strategic-planner-change-future/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategic planning</a>, teamwork and ingenuity,” says Lamagna. “There were actors placed throughout The Strip to interact with the group (if they were clever enough to find and recognize them based on descriptions). Even people who rolled their eyes when they found out they had to participate came back excited, happy and better for the experience.”\r\n<h2>To Meet On The Strip, or Not?</h2>\r\nPlanners should balance choosing whether to be on The Strip with other considerations. “Sometimes we want a gambling-free hotel, and sometimes we want to be a big fish in a little pond,” says Lamagna. “Other times we want to allow attendees to feel the true magnitude of the space so we are a small group in an enormous space.”\r\n\r\nLamagna cites other key considerations: “If Vegas is chosen for its location and its abundance of space rather than what it has to offer in entertainment, then off The Strip may be the better option,” says Lamagna. If you are limited on your budget and allow attendees to have nights on their own, then The Strip is more strategic.”\r\n\r\nAge of the group also should play a determining role. “Millennials value fresh food, place a lower emphasis on gambling and prefer newer spaces,” says Lamagna. “My Gen Xers and above enjoy and often expect to be in a more traditional casino because it’s their definition of the Vegas hotel experience.”\r\n\r\nBecause of competition among hotels and pricing, planners have a choice of properties to match their budgets. “Room rates aren’t always the best narrowing factor in Las Vegas — a city where large hotels and great rates are a dime a dozen,” says May. “Rates are usually very reasonable, especially mid-week and as long as you watch out for resort fees, which are usually high — $20 to $35.”\r\n\r\nOn the other hand, May adds, entertainment for incentives can be pricey. “When planning for incentive travel programs, we usually like to account for high personal spend on shopping, gaming, food and beverage with a room credit for winners and guests,” says May. “No one wants to be surprised with a high incidentals bill at the end of an earned getaway.”\r\n\r\nMultiyear deals, when appropriate, can add even more value. “They give a planner the peace of mind that their event has a home for a few years out and, if working with the right partner, allows you to keep pricing a year or so behind current rates,” says Lamagna. “Vegas never goes out of style, and given its ever-changing options, attendees have something new to experience each time they return — much more so than other cities.\r\n<h2>New and Noteworthy</h2>\r\nThe 1,504-room Hard Rock Hotel &amp; Casino Las Vegas is currently expanding its meeting and convention space from 80,000 sf to 110,000 sf. The expansion, which will debut in winter 2016, includes an additional 2,000 sf of prefunction and registration space; and an additional 18,000 sf of meeting and convention space in the Artist Ballroom, which will total 28,000 sf. Among the 40 existing meeting spaces are Muse Hall, Artist Hall, Festival Hall and the Studio Collection, which feature Higher Frequency, a program offering customizable sensory meeting packages that are designed to deliver “an immersive rock ’n’ roll experience” to enhance the impact of the event. Beyond the meeting space, Hard Rock also features special event venues for corporate groups, including the music venues The Joint and Vinyl, as well as lounges and the Breathe Pool.\r\n\r\nMGM Resorts International recently unveiled The Park, a vibrant outdoor dining and entertainment district celebrating the beauty of the surrounding desert landscape and offering visitors a new way to experience the Las Vegas Strip. Located between New York-New York and Monte Carlo resorts, The Park is designed as a social gathering space where guests can experience stunning design elements, a fun culinary lineup boasting great indoor/outdoor environments, iconic art and playful entertainment.\r\n\r\nThe Park serves as the gateway to the new T-Mobile Arena. The 20,000-seat venue also offers a wealth of event spaces for rent that fit both large and small gatherings.\r\n\r\nWynn Las Vegas and Encore together have 260,000 sf of beautiful and unique settings for any size meeting or convention. Amenities aplenty, Wynn also offers Steve Wynn’s ShowStoppers, a music spectacular featuring a reinvented collection of songs and dances. Voted “Best New Show” in Las Vegas, ShowStoppers brings a vibrant and talented cast of 66 singers, dancers and a full orchestra with dazzling scenery and costumes to the intimate Encore Theater.\r\n\r\nWynn’s most recent news is word that a new entertainment destination — named Wynn Paradise Park for now — built around a first-ever recreational lake concept has been proposed by the chairman and CEO himself — Steve Wynn. Subject to approval by the company’s board of directors, the new destination will take the place of the golf course and is expected to include a 38-acre lagoon surrounded by premium meetings and convention space, a 1,000-room hotel tower, a small casino and extensive dining and nightlife.\r\n\r\n“We have a chance to reinvent Las Vegas and make the whole venue an entertainment attraction…an idyllic beach paradise surrounded by white sand beaches,” stated Wynn in an announcement. “People come to Las Vegas from all over the world to live large and have a good time, and we can dish up an irresistible entertainment attraction.”\r\n\r\nThe proposed lagoon will be lined by a white sand beach and boardwalk, and feature an array of daytime activities including waterskiing, paddleboarding and parasailing. At night, the space will transform with an elaborate fireworks display that is launched from the center island and surrounding areas.\r\n\r\nThe park will add 260,000 sf of premium meeting space with unobstructed views of the waterfront, spacious guest rooms with a separate bedroom, living room and balcony, and a variety of restaurants, including an expansion of the current Country Club restaurant.\r\n\r\nWynn also is developing Wynn Plaza, an expansive retail complex featuring nearly 80,000 sf of luxury retail space. Debuting fall 2017, the complex will augment the existing luxury retail collection currently showcased at Wynn Las Vegas and Encore as well as bring the shopping experience to the high traffic area bordering Las Vegas Boulevard.\r\n\r\nCaesars Entertainment Corporation announced plans to upgrade more than 4,800 hotel rooms this year at four of its Las Vegas resorts. These resort upgrades include the transformation of the original tower at Caesars Palace to create the Julius Tower as well as the refurbishment of the resort’s Augustus Tower. Additional room upgrades will include Planet Hollywood Resort &amp; Casino, Paris Las Vegas and Harrah’s Las Vegas.\r\n\r\nCaesars Palace also offers an amazing casino and meeting space experience. Its 300,000 sf of meeting space is comfortably set apart from the casino area, yet remains within easy reach of attendees. Caesars Palace offers a large range of flexible venues with countless configuration options to suit groups of all sizes. In addition to traditional meeting venues within Caesars, the site’s 4,100-seat Colosseum boasts one of the world’s largest LED screens, a perfect location for presentations that really “wow.”\r\n\r\nCaesars Entertainment Corporation’s properties — Flamingo Las Vegas, The Linq Hotel &amp; Casino and Caesars Palace — introduced a new integrated self-check-in program that includes email, text, Web and mobile apps as well as new check-in kiosks. Arriving guests use the kiosks to verify IDs and take payment information. The kiosk then provides a printed key if the room is ready, or an alert to return when the room is available. Other Caesars properties will soon offer the system.\r\n\r\nTo meet the ever-growing needs of convention managers and attendees, the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino Convention Center recently completed its expansion with the opening of the 70,000-sf Oceanside Ballroom. The $70 million expansion includes 350,000 sf of new exhibit space, a 20,000-sf foyer and underground parking. Mandalay Bay also completed the final phase of its resort-wide remodel of more than 3,000 guest rooms and suites. Created by the MGM Resorts International Design Group, the redesigned rooms and suites feature refreshing color palettes and modern designs in three distinct collections.\r\n\r\nTropicana Las Vegas, a DoubleTree by Hilton, recently opened its new pool club, Sky Beach Club. The South Beach-inspired club is designed for 21-and-over guests and features bikini-clad servers, two luxury pools, VIP cabanas, two bars and a DJ booth. A-list celebrity hosts, top live music acts and beer pong are also part of the Sky Beach Club.\r\n\r\nThe pool opening follows a $200 million transformation that included the 55,000-sf Trinidad at Tropicana Las Vegas, and 1,469 updated guest rooms and suites with new furnishings and amenities. In addition, guests can enjoy beach houses styled after Miami penthouses and oceanside beach houses.\r\n\r\nThe transformation also added a new conference facility featuring more than 100,000 sf of meeting and exhibition space that includes a 25,000-sf ballroom and is divisible into 38 breakout rooms.\r\n\r\nMGM Grand’s Skylofts is personalizing the guest experience at every touch point, from pre-arrival to departure. Skylofts features a personal concierge who asks upcoming guests a series of <a href=\"https://strategic.events/asking-strategic-questions-cvb/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">questions</a> prior to arrival to ensure room, mini-bar and travel preferences are met. Those choices are then documented and saved so when the guests return, everything is as if they never left.\r\n\r\nThe Venetian, The Palazzo and Sands Expo complex offers more than 2.25 million sf of meeting and convention space and one of the world’s largest pillar-less ballrooms at 85,000 sf, plus 298 meeting, conference and boardrooms. Adjacent to The Venetian and The Palazzo Congress Center, the Sands Expo offers 1.9 million sf of meeting and show space.\r\n\r\nThe all-suite Venetian and Palazzo offer the largest standard suites on The Strip, starting at 650 sf. Prestige at The Palazzo offers 225 Prestige suites that provide exclusive amenities such as champagne check-ins, personal concierge and access to a 12,000-sf private lounge where enhanced weekend offerings include nightly wine tastings and live piano music.\r\n\r\nGuests can enjoy their downtime at The Venetian and The Palazzo with the resorts’ exquisite restaurants from celebrated chefs, including Bouchon by Thomas Keller, Carnevino by Mario Batali and Cut by Wolfgang Puck; relaxing spa and fitness at Canyon Ranch SpaClub; world-class shopping at the Grand Canal Shoppes; and entertainment from artist headliners along with new shows, which include “Baz – Star Crossed Love” and “Puppet Up! – Uncensored,” a spontaneous, off-the-cuff comedy with the unmatched talent and creativity of Henson puppeteers.\r\n\r\nSLS Las Vegas, a Tribute Portfolio Resort, features 1,613 guest rooms in three distinct towers — Story, World and Lux — ranging from luxurious 325-sf rooms to penthouse suites spanning 3,300 sf. SLS Las Vegas delivers more than 80,000 sf of indoor-outdoor event sites, including a 9,000-sf ballroom, and 30,000 sf of dedicated meeting space. Fifteen flexible meeting rooms are perfectly suited to host events of all sizes from corporate luncheons to extravagant soirées. The property boasts a salon, spa, fitness center as well as a collection of acclaimed restaurant and nightlife brands.\r\n\r\nWestgate Las Vegas Resort &amp; Casino offers a unique blend of amenities and excitement with table games, slots, restaurants, and more than 225,000 sf of meeting space and the world’s largest race and sports SuperBook. The property features entertainment options in the International Theater and the Westgate Cabaret. Westgate Las Vegas Resort &amp; Casino is currently undergoing a $100 million renovation that will encompass every square inch of the property including the addition of 300 timeshare villas, the all-new International Bar, a fully renovated pool deck, 1,200 remodeled Signature Rooms and more.\r\n\r\nBlue Man Group, comedy, theater, rock concert and dance party all rolled into one, is back in Las Vegas at the specially designed Blue Man Theater at Luxor Hotel and Casino. It is an unbelievable multisensory experience showcasing new music, new design, new technology and a new finale to wow the entire audience.\r\n\r\nThe Mob Museum of organized crime and law enforcement has extended operating hours to include “museum after dark” programs that allow visitors to view objects, photos and documents normally not on display. In addition, “Moe-Bot,” a telepresence robot, allows guests to virtually visit the museum’s displays and get interactive guided tours via a desktop computer or mobile device.\r\n\r\nIn the area of technology, Las Vegas has introduced a new travel app to help visitors get the most out of their destination experience. The app, WhereToVegas, provides an online map of trendy events, locations and entertainment. The app determines popular hot spots by tracking online conversations about Las Vegas experiences and ranking them.\r\n\r\nSports entertainment facility Topgolf Las Vegas is a four-level, climate-controlled, 105,000-sf venue boasting 108 hitting bays, five bars/lounges, luxury suites and private event spaces. Also, it has two pools accompanied by LED-illuminated daybeds, cabanas and lounge chairs. The venue’s elevated cuisine features classic comfort food, locally sourced products and internationally inspired flavors. The new facility can accommodate more than 3,000 guests, stage a 900-person concert/performance space with 300 video screens and a 28-by-200-foot video wall behind outfield targets. Groups are invited to try their hand at the patented Topgolf game — an especially appealing teambuilding program.\r\n<h2>More Convention Space</h2>\r\nThe Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino Convention Center now can attract larger and additional corporate, incentive and association groups due to the completion of its $70 million expansion, including the recent opening of the 70,000-sf Oceanside Ballroom.\r\n\r\nThe project also includes 350,000 sf of new exhibit space, and a 20,000-sf foyer and underground parking. The convention center now has more than 2 million total sf and more than 900,000 sf of contiguous exhibit space. The resort-wide expansion also includes redesign of Mandalay Bay’s 3,211 guest rooms and suites.\r\n\r\nAria Resort &amp; Casino is expanding its LEED Gold-certified convention center by adding 200,000 sf of flexible meeting space on four levels. The $154 million expansion will include indoor/open-air spaces and a glass-enclosed venue with views of The Park and T-Mobile Arena. The expansion, scheduled for completion in February 2018, will increase Aria’s total meeting space to about 500,000 sf.\r\n\r\nAria now offers 38 meeting rooms and four ballrooms with one totaling 51,000 sf and divisible into 10 meeting rooms. Two other ballrooms are divisible into eight rooms of 38,000 sf each. Another ballroom offers 20,000 sf of space.\r\n\r\nThe MGM Grand Hotel &amp; Casino houses one of The Strip’s most opulent conference centers, which features more than 600,000 sf of meeting space and more than 380,000 sf of event space on three levels. Choices include rooms of all sizes and configurations, including a 92,000-sf ballroom, and the 100,000-sf, 17,000-seat Grand Garden Arena.\r\n\r\nThe Strip’s popular convention facilities include the Mirage Hotel &amp; Casino’s Mirage Events Center, which offers 170,000 sf of event space, including 90,000 sf of pillar-less space divisible into three 30,000-sf sections. Each section can further divide into three spaces of 6,500 to 10,000 sf. Additional space includes a 40,000-sf ballroom.\r\n\r\nOne of The Mirage’s newest amenities is The Still, an 8,000-sf upscale food bar with 22 televisions. The food will be prepared in a refurbished Airstream trailer that was transformed into a fully functioning kitchen.\r\n\r\nLas Vegas Sands Corp. leads a group of investors planning to build a $1 billion domed stadium on 42 acres near the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, according to a report in the Las Vegas Review-Journal. The stadium would be home to the university’s football and perhaps a National Football League franchise, the report says.\r\n\r\nLong term, the Las Vegas Convention Center will add 600,000 sf of exhibit space and renovate the existing 3.2 million-sf facility within eight to 10 years under the Las Vegas Global Business District master plan. Shorter term, Las Vegas will get additional meeting space (although the exact amount has yet to be determined) when the China-themed Resorts World Las Vegas opens in 2018. The facility will feature 6,600 rooms, a 5,000-seat theater and a 175,000-sf casino.\r\n\r\nLas Vegas, more than most destinations, makes life easier for meeting <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planners</a>. As May put it, “Planners can let Vegas do the work of providing the glitz, glamour and ‘wow’ — attendees will walk away with unforgettable experiences that planners didn’t even have to allocate budgets for.”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Las Vegas The Meeting Planner\'s Best Friend, Meeting Planners, Meeting Planner\'s Best Friend, Meeting Destination, Las Vegas, Insurance &amp; Financial Meetings Management, The Meeting Magazines, Event Planning, Strategic Planners, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.themeetingmagazines.com/insurance-financial-meetings-management/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-4207 size-medium\" title=\"The Meeting Magazines\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/logo-insurance-300x95.jpg\" alt=\"The Meeting Magazines\" width=\"300\" height=\"95\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Las Vegas: The Meeting Planner\'s Best Friend','','inherit','closed','closed','','4949-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 22:00:15','2018-02-06 22:00:15','',4949,'https://strategic.events/4949-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10120,3,'2018-02-06 22:03:38','2018-02-06 22:03:38','<h2>Las Vegas: The Meeting Planner\'s Best Friend</h2>\r\n<h3>By Derek Reveron</h3>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_4950\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"860\"]<img class=\"wp-image-4950 size-full\" title=\"Heavyweight meetings destination Las Vegas is like a prizefighter who knows he can never rest on his laurels if he wants to keep winning titles.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CIT-2016-05May-Las_Vegas-860x418.jpg\" alt=\"Heavyweight meetings destination Las Vegas is like a prizefighter who knows he can never rest on his laurels if he wants to keep winning titles.\" width=\"860\" height=\"418\" /> A smoke drums performance by Blue Man Group at the Luxor Hotel &amp; Casino. Credit: Lindsey Best[/caption]\r\n\r\nHeavyweight meetings destination Las Vegas is like a prizefighter who knows he can never rest on his laurels if he wants to keep winning titles.\r\n\r\nThe way Las Vegas sees it, having more than 150,000 hotel rooms, more than 11 million sf of meeting space, and hundreds of resorts, casinos, nightspots and entertainment options isn’t enough. That’s why the destination has more than $7 billion in current and proposed development projects.\r\n\r\nThese include Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino Convention Center, MGM Resorts International’s The Park and Topgolf Las Vegas. Aria Resort &amp; Casino is expanding its convention center; Caesars Entertainment Corporation plans to upgrade more than 4,800 hotel rooms at four Las Vegas properties; and Steve Wynn and Wynn resorts are proposing a new lake resort called Wynn Paradise Park. In addition, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority’s Las Vegas Convention Center District project includes expansion and renovation of the Las Vegas Convention Center.\r\n<h3>“Planners can let Vegas do the work of providing the glitz, glamour and ‘wow’ — attendees will walk away with unforgettable experiences that planners didn’t even have to allocate budgets for.”\r\n— Mike May</h3>\r\nSuch projects will help Las Vegas keep its ranking as the No. 1 trade show destination. Las Vegas topped the Trade Show News Network’s “2015 TSNN Top 250 Trade Shows in the United States” list for the 22nd consecutive year. Las Vegas hosted 54 of the largest trade shows held in the U.S. last year, accounting for about 22,000 meetings and 5.9 million attendees.\r\n\r\nLas Vegas is popular partly because it offers so much that makes life easier for planners. “Vegas is an adult playground and, in many ways, a planner’s best friend,” says Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, president and chief strategist at Strategic Meetings &amp; Events, a Bernardsville, New Jersey-based meetings and incentives firm. “Las Vegas truly has something for everyone in terms of meeting space, pricing and caliber of property. Lift is second to none.”\r\n\r\nIn addition, Las Vegas is a top fine-dining destination. “It is transforming into more of a culinary and entertainment hub rather than just gambling,” adds Lamagna. “Las Vegas allows planners to bring groups with discriminating palates who also have a hunger for live shows and concerts. The city has celebrity chefs and a collective wine list that is staggering.”\r\n\r\nSome of the newest restaurants include the Italian eatery Carbone at Aria Resort &amp; Casino, the restaurant’s first domestic expansion outside of New York City. Other restaurants include Rivea at the Delano Las Vegas; Salute, which offers cuisine from Southern Italy at Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa; and Harvest, a farm-to-table restaurant at Bellagio.\r\n<h2>Meeting Off The Strip</h2>\r\nPopular meeting properties include the 800-room AAA Four Diamond Red Rock Casino, Resort &amp; Spa, the crown jewel of Station Casinos. The Red Rock, located 10 miles off The Strip in Summerlin, was the just-right property for a three-day business meeting with about 300 attendees that CliftonLarsonAllen, a Milwaukee-based professional services firm, held last year.\r\n\r\nCliftonLarsenAllen chose the Red Rock after reviewing a handful of off-The-Strip properties. “Although The Strip has fabulous properties, we preferred to be off-Strip,” says Lisa Jeans, project manager, executive team and firm-wide travel manager. “The Red Rock is a luxury resort offering everything a meeting planner looks for in a resort, but doesn’t have all of the distractions of The Strip.”\r\n\r\nIn addition, says Jeans, the Red Rock is the ultimate self-contained resort. “We actually prefer to stay on-property for our events, and with all the Red Rock has to offer, it makes it easy,” she says. “The food and beverage quality is incredible. The size, location and condition of meeting facilities and rooms are excellent. The service is second to none.”\r\n\r\nMost of all, adds Jeans, the Red Rock offers excellent bang for the buck. “The value received was incredible,” she says. “The room rates you are able to get in Las Vegas are the best rates you can find in a convention-conference city — $75 to $100 per night less than other convention-conference cities during peak times. The Red Rock also made me feel like I was their only client during the planning process, which is invaluable as an event planner.”\r\n\r\nSo far, the Red Rock is the only Las Vegas property that Jeans’ company has used for its principal business meeting. The company plans to return to the property in January for a client meeting. “We are averaging one meeting every other year at the Red Rock,” says Jeans.\r\n<h2>Choosing the Right Property</h2>\r\nLas Vegas has suitable properties for every type of group. However, because Las Vegas is such a unique destination, it’s important to match the meeting with the <a href=\"https://strategic.events/art-small-meeting/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">right property</a> that meets the company’s objective.\r\n\r\nMaking a good match requires planners to consider each group’s expectations and needs for experiencing Las Vegas. “For high-end clients, we are looking at Wynn, Encore, Bellagio, Venetian, Four Seasons, etc.,” says Mike May, president of Irving, Texas-based Spear One, a meetings, incentives and events planning firm. “Another consideration is podium power. For incentive travel programs, where we are trying to motivate participants to earn a trip, we might consider a new or trendy property like the Cosmopolitan.”\r\n\r\nOverall, Las Vegas is perfect for certain types of meetings. “In my opinion, the best types of meetings to host in Las Vegas are larger product launches, customer user groups and trade shows,” says May. “Internal sales kickoff meetings are an interesting paradox. The mega-hotels are fantastic for accommodating such large groups, but may not be the best match for more buttoned-up corporate cultures.”\r\n\r\nPlanners booking small groups in Las Vegas have uniquely different considerations. “Small meetings can get lost in Vegas, so I’d caution those groups to look for intimate environments, or possibly lose attendees,” says May. “If you are a smaller group, consider a boutique property like the Four Seasons at Mandalay Bay or the newly rebranded Nobu Hotel in Caesars Palace.”\r\n\r\nThe demographics of a group — including age, gender, education and regional origin — are also a key in choosing the right Las Vegas property. “Many groups would like to be in the heart of The Strip action, but that isn’t necessarily the right fit for everyone,” says May. Groups looking to cover educational content might want a property farther away in the Henderson area, so attendees won’t lose focus.”\r\n\r\nSome planners want The Strip itself to be part of the meeting experience. “We hired a company to produce a three-hour teambuilding event that focused on critical thinking, <a href=\"https://strategic.events/how-to-become-strategic-planner-change-future/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategic planning</a>, teamwork and ingenuity,” says Lamagna. “There were actors placed throughout The Strip to interact with the group (if they were clever enough to find and recognize them based on descriptions). Even people who rolled their eyes when they found out they had to participate came back excited, happy and better for the experience.”\r\n<h2>To Meet On The Strip, or Not?</h2>\r\nPlanners should balance choosing whether to be on The Strip with other considerations. “Sometimes we want a gambling-free hotel, and sometimes we want to be a big fish in a little pond,” says Lamagna. “Other times we want to allow attendees to feel the true magnitude of the space so we are a small group in an enormous space.”\r\n\r\nLamagna cites other key considerations: “If Vegas is chosen for its location and its abundance of space rather than what it has to offer in entertainment, then off The Strip may be the better option,” says Lamagna. If you are limited on your budget and allow attendees to have nights on their own, then The Strip is more strategic.”\r\n\r\nAge of the group also should play a determining role. “Millennials value fresh food, place a lower emphasis on gambling and prefer newer spaces,” says Lamagna. “My Gen Xers and above enjoy and often expect to be in a more traditional casino because it’s their definition of the Vegas hotel experience.”\r\n\r\nBecause of competition among hotels and pricing, <a href=\"https://strategic.events/meetings-christy-lamagna-solution/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planners have a choice</a> of properties to match their budgets. “Room rates aren’t always the best narrowing factor in Las Vegas — a city where large hotels and great rates are a dime a dozen,” says May. “Rates are usually very reasonable, especially mid-week and as long as you watch out for resort fees, which are usually high — $20 to $35.”\r\n\r\nOn the other hand, May adds, entertainment for incentives can be pricey. “When planning for incentive travel programs, we usually like to account for high personal spend on shopping, gaming, food and beverage with a room credit for winners and guests,” says May. “No one wants to be surprised with a high incidentals bill at the end of an earned getaway.”\r\n\r\nMultiyear deals, when appropriate, can add even more value. “They give a planner the peace of mind that their event has a home for a few years out and, if working with the right partner, allows you to keep pricing a year or so behind current rates,” says Lamagna. “Vegas never goes out of style, and given its ever-changing options, attendees have something new to experience each time they return — much more so than other cities.\r\n<h2>New and Noteworthy</h2>\r\nThe 1,504-room Hard Rock Hotel &amp; Casino Las Vegas is currently expanding its meeting and convention space from 80,000 sf to 110,000 sf. The expansion, which will debut in winter 2016, includes an additional 2,000 sf of prefunction and registration space; and an additional 18,000 sf of meeting and convention space in the Artist Ballroom, which will total 28,000 sf. Among the 40 existing meeting spaces are Muse Hall, Artist Hall, Festival Hall and the Studio Collection, which feature Higher Frequency, a program offering customizable sensory meeting packages that are designed to deliver “an immersive rock ’n’ roll experience” to enhance the impact of the event. Beyond the meeting space, Hard Rock also features special event venues for corporate groups, including the music venues The Joint and Vinyl, as well as lounges and the Breathe Pool.\r\n\r\nMGM Resorts International recently unveiled The Park, a vibrant outdoor dining and entertainment district celebrating the beauty of the surrounding desert landscape and offering visitors a new way to experience the Las Vegas Strip. Located between New York-New York and Monte Carlo resorts, The Park is designed as a social gathering space where guests can experience stunning design elements, a fun culinary lineup boasting great indoor/outdoor environments, iconic art and playful entertainment.\r\n\r\nThe Park serves as the gateway to the new T-Mobile Arena. The 20,000-seat venue also offers a wealth of event spaces for rent that fit both large and small gatherings.\r\n\r\nWynn Las Vegas and Encore together have 260,000 sf of beautiful and unique settings for any size meeting or convention. Amenities aplenty, Wynn also offers Steve Wynn’s ShowStoppers, a music spectacular featuring a reinvented collection of songs and dances. Voted “Best New Show” in Las Vegas, ShowStoppers brings a vibrant and talented cast of 66 singers, dancers and a full orchestra with dazzling scenery and costumes to the intimate Encore Theater.\r\n\r\nWynn’s most recent news is word that a new entertainment destination — named Wynn Paradise Park for now — built around a first-ever recreational lake concept has been proposed by the chairman and CEO himself — Steve Wynn. Subject to approval by the company’s board of directors, the new destination will take the place of the golf course and is expected to include a 38-acre lagoon surrounded by premium meetings and convention space, a 1,000-room hotel tower, a small casino and extensive dining and nightlife.\r\n\r\n“We have a chance to reinvent Las Vegas and make the whole venue an entertainment attraction…an idyllic beach paradise surrounded by white sand beaches,” stated Wynn in an announcement. “People come to Las Vegas from all over the world to live large and have a good time, and we can dish up an irresistible entertainment attraction.”\r\n\r\nThe proposed lagoon will be lined by a white sand beach and boardwalk, and feature an array of daytime activities including waterskiing, paddleboarding and parasailing. At night, the space will transform with an elaborate fireworks display that is launched from the center island and surrounding areas.\r\n\r\nThe park will add 260,000 sf of premium meeting space with unobstructed views of the waterfront, spacious guest rooms with a separate bedroom, living room and balcony, and a variety of restaurants, including an expansion of the current Country Club restaurant.\r\n\r\nWynn also is developing Wynn Plaza, an expansive retail complex featuring nearly 80,000 sf of luxury retail space. Debuting fall 2017, the complex will augment the existing luxury retail collection currently showcased at Wynn Las Vegas and Encore as well as bring the shopping experience to the high traffic area bordering Las Vegas Boulevard.\r\n\r\nCaesars Entertainment Corporation announced plans to upgrade more than 4,800 hotel rooms this year at four of its Las Vegas resorts. These resort upgrades include the transformation of the original tower at Caesars Palace to create the Julius Tower as well as the refurbishment of the resort’s Augustus Tower. Additional room upgrades will include Planet Hollywood Resort &amp; Casino, Paris Las Vegas and Harrah’s Las Vegas.\r\n\r\nCaesars Palace also offers an amazing casino and meeting space experience. Its 300,000 sf of meeting space is comfortably set apart from the casino area, yet remains within easy reach of attendees. Caesars Palace offers a large range of flexible venues with countless configuration options to suit groups of all sizes. In addition to traditional meeting venues within Caesars, the site’s 4,100-seat Colosseum boasts one of the world’s largest LED screens, a perfect location for presentations that really “wow.”\r\n\r\nCaesars Entertainment Corporation’s properties — Flamingo Las Vegas, The Linq Hotel &amp; Casino and Caesars Palace — introduced a new integrated self-check-in program that includes email, text, Web and mobile apps as well as new check-in kiosks. Arriving guests use the kiosks to verify IDs and take payment information. The kiosk then provides a printed key if the room is ready, or an alert to return when the room is available. Other Caesars properties will soon offer the system.\r\n\r\nTo meet the ever-growing needs of convention managers and attendees, the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino Convention Center recently completed its expansion with the opening of the 70,000-sf Oceanside Ballroom. The $70 million expansion includes 350,000 sf of new exhibit space, a 20,000-sf foyer and underground parking. Mandalay Bay also completed the final phase of its resort-wide remodel of more than 3,000 guest rooms and suites. Created by the MGM Resorts International Design Group, the redesigned rooms and suites feature refreshing color palettes and modern designs in three distinct collections.\r\n\r\nTropicana Las Vegas, a DoubleTree by Hilton, recently opened its new pool club, Sky Beach Club. The South Beach-inspired club is designed for 21-and-over guests and features bikini-clad servers, two luxury pools, VIP cabanas, two bars and a DJ booth. A-list celebrity hosts, top live music acts and beer pong are also part of the Sky Beach Club.\r\n\r\nThe pool opening follows a $200 million transformation that included the 55,000-sf Trinidad at Tropicana Las Vegas, and 1,469 updated guest rooms and suites with new furnishings and amenities. In addition, guests can enjoy beach houses styled after Miami penthouses and oceanside beach houses.\r\n\r\nThe transformation also added a new conference facility featuring more than 100,000 sf of meeting and exhibition space that includes a 25,000-sf ballroom and is divisible into 38 breakout rooms.\r\n\r\nMGM Grand’s Skylofts is personalizing the guest experience at every touch point, from pre-arrival to departure. Skylofts features a personal concierge who asks upcoming guests a series of <a href=\"https://strategic.events/asking-strategic-questions-cvb/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">questions</a> prior to arrival to ensure room, mini-bar and travel preferences are met. Those choices are then documented and saved so when the guests return, everything is as if they never left.\r\n\r\nThe Venetian, The Palazzo and Sands Expo complex offers more than 2.25 million sf of meeting and convention space and one of the world’s largest pillar-less ballrooms at 85,000 sf, plus 298 meeting, conference and boardrooms. Adjacent to The Venetian and The Palazzo Congress Center, the Sands Expo offers 1.9 million sf of meeting and show space.\r\n\r\nThe all-suite Venetian and Palazzo offer the largest standard suites on The Strip, starting at 650 sf. Prestige at The Palazzo offers 225 Prestige suites that provide exclusive amenities such as champagne check-ins, personal concierge and access to a 12,000-sf private lounge where enhanced weekend offerings include nightly wine tastings and live piano music.\r\n\r\nGuests can enjoy their downtime at The Venetian and The Palazzo with the resorts’ exquisite restaurants from celebrated chefs, including Bouchon by Thomas Keller, Carnevino by Mario Batali and Cut by Wolfgang Puck; relaxing spa and fitness at Canyon Ranch SpaClub; world-class shopping at the Grand Canal Shoppes; and entertainment from artist headliners along with new shows, which include “Baz – Star Crossed Love” and “Puppet Up! – Uncensored,” a spontaneous, off-the-cuff comedy with the unmatched talent and creativity of Henson puppeteers.\r\n\r\nSLS Las Vegas, a Tribute Portfolio Resort, features 1,613 guest rooms in three distinct towers — Story, World and Lux — ranging from luxurious 325-sf rooms to penthouse suites spanning 3,300 sf. SLS Las Vegas delivers more than 80,000 sf of indoor-outdoor event sites, including a 9,000-sf ballroom, and 30,000 sf of dedicated meeting space. Fifteen flexible meeting rooms are perfectly suited to host events of all sizes from corporate luncheons to extravagant soirées. The property boasts a salon, spa, fitness center as well as a collection of acclaimed restaurant and nightlife brands.\r\n\r\nWestgate Las Vegas Resort &amp; Casino offers a unique blend of amenities and excitement with table games, slots, restaurants, and more than 225,000 sf of meeting space and the world’s largest race and sports SuperBook. The property features entertainment options in the International Theater and the Westgate Cabaret. Westgate Las Vegas Resort &amp; Casino is currently undergoing a $100 million renovation that will encompass every square inch of the property including the addition of 300 timeshare villas, the all-new International Bar, a fully renovated pool deck, 1,200 remodeled Signature Rooms and more.\r\n\r\nBlue Man Group, comedy, theater, rock concert and dance party all rolled into one, is back in Las Vegas at the specially designed Blue Man Theater at Luxor Hotel and Casino. It is an unbelievable multisensory experience showcasing new music, new design, new technology and a new finale to wow the entire audience.\r\n\r\nThe Mob Museum of organized crime and law enforcement has extended operating hours to include “museum after dark” programs that allow visitors to view objects, photos and documents normally not on display. In addition, “Moe-Bot,” a telepresence robot, allows guests to virtually visit the museum’s displays and get interactive guided tours via a desktop computer or mobile device.\r\n\r\nIn the area of technology, Las Vegas has introduced a new travel app to help visitors get the most out of their destination experience. The app, WhereToVegas, provides an online map of trendy events, locations and entertainment. The app determines popular hot spots by tracking online conversations about Las Vegas experiences and ranking them.\r\n\r\nSports entertainment facility Topgolf Las Vegas is a four-level, climate-controlled, 105,000-sf venue boasting 108 hitting bays, five bars/lounges, luxury suites and private event spaces. Also, it has two pools accompanied by LED-illuminated daybeds, cabanas and lounge chairs. The venue’s elevated cuisine features classic comfort food, locally sourced products and internationally inspired flavors. The new facility can accommodate more than 3,000 guests, stage a 900-person concert/performance space with 300 video screens and a 28-by-200-foot video wall behind outfield targets. Groups are invited to try their hand at the patented Topgolf game — an especially appealing teambuilding program.\r\n<h2>More Convention Space</h2>\r\nThe Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino Convention Center now can attract larger and additional corporate, incentive and association groups due to the completion of its $70 million expansion, including the recent opening of the 70,000-sf Oceanside Ballroom.\r\n\r\nThe project also includes 350,000 sf of new exhibit space, and a 20,000-sf foyer and underground parking. The convention center now has more than 2 million total sf and more than 900,000 sf of contiguous exhibit space. The resort-wide expansion also includes redesign of Mandalay Bay’s 3,211 guest rooms and suites.\r\n\r\nAria Resort &amp; Casino is expanding its LEED Gold-certified convention center by adding 200,000 sf of flexible meeting space on four levels. The $154 million expansion will include indoor/open-air spaces and a glass-enclosed venue with views of The Park and T-Mobile Arena. The expansion, scheduled for completion in February 2018, will increase Aria’s total meeting space to about 500,000 sf.\r\n\r\nAria now offers 38 meeting rooms and four ballrooms with one totaling 51,000 sf and divisible into 10 meeting rooms. Two other ballrooms are divisible into eight rooms of 38,000 sf each. Another ballroom offers 20,000 sf of space.\r\n\r\nThe MGM Grand Hotel &amp; Casino houses one of The Strip’s most opulent conference centers, which features more than 600,000 sf of meeting space and more than 380,000 sf of event space on three levels. Choices include rooms of all sizes and configurations, including a 92,000-sf ballroom, and the 100,000-sf, 17,000-seat Grand Garden Arena.\r\n\r\nThe Strip’s popular convention facilities include the Mirage Hotel &amp; Casino’s Mirage Events Center, which offers 170,000 sf of event space, including 90,000 sf of pillar-less space divisible into three 30,000-sf sections. Each section can further divide into three spaces of 6,500 to 10,000 sf. Additional space includes a 40,000-sf ballroom.\r\n\r\nOne of The Mirage’s newest amenities is The Still, an 8,000-sf upscale food bar with 22 televisions. The food will be prepared in a refurbished Airstream trailer that was transformed into a fully functioning kitchen.\r\n\r\nLas Vegas Sands Corp. leads a group of investors planning to build a $1 billion domed stadium on 42 acres near the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, according to a report in the Las Vegas Review-Journal. The stadium would be home to the university’s football and perhaps a National Football League franchise, the report says.\r\n\r\nLong term, the Las Vegas Convention Center will add 600,000 sf of exhibit space and renovate the existing 3.2 million-sf facility within eight to 10 years under the Las Vegas Global Business District master plan. Shorter term, Las Vegas will get additional meeting space (although the exact amount has yet to be determined) when the China-themed Resorts World Las Vegas opens in 2018. The facility will feature 6,600 rooms, a 5,000-seat theater and a 175,000-sf casino.\r\n\r\nLas Vegas, more than most destinations, makes life easier for meeting <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planners</a>. As May put it, “Planners can let Vegas do the work of providing the glitz, glamour and ‘wow’ — attendees will walk away with unforgettable experiences that planners didn’t even have to allocate budgets for.”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Las Vegas The Meeting Planner\'s Best Friend, Meeting Planners, Meeting Planner\'s Best Friend, Meeting Destination, Las Vegas, Insurance &amp; Financial Meetings Management, The Meeting Magazines, Event Planning, Strategic Planners, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.themeetingmagazines.com/insurance-financial-meetings-management/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-4207 size-medium\" title=\"The Meeting Magazines\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/logo-insurance-300x95.jpg\" alt=\"The Meeting Magazines\" width=\"300\" height=\"95\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Las Vegas: The Meeting Planner\'s Best Friend','','inherit','closed','closed','','4949-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 22:03:38','2018-02-06 22:03:38','',4949,'https://strategic.events/4949-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10121,3,'2018-02-06 22:08:37','2018-02-06 22:08:37','<h2>Strategic Meetings &amp; Events, New Jersey\r\nEvent Company of the Year</h2>\r\n<h3>Strategic Events Summary</h3>\r\nStrategic Meetings &amp; Events produces corporate events, worldwide. We partner with our clients to create goal driven, strategic events. We begin with a discovery session so key stakeholders can share their goals and vision. We take that directive and work with the sales and marketing team to make sure everyone has the same goal.\r\n\r\nArmed with that <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategically-building-your-information-pipeline/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">information</a> we can then select the appropriate location, venue, room sets, food and décor. We appreciate that the meeting\'s content is an integral component of the program so we pay special attention to those details as well. From creating speaker tips to slide templates assuring everyone is using the same size slides, we help coordinate what\'s happening inside the ballroom, not just the logistics around it. Speaker run-throughs are hosted and on the day of the event we\'re there with our rundown in hand, greeting speakers, keeping the timing on schedule and making sure the session runs smoothly\r\n\r\nWhile that\'s happening, the rest of the team is setting up for evening and offsite <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategic</a> events, handling pop-up requests, confirming transportation arrangements, handling room drops and managing all the <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-supplies-inventory/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">onsite</a> details.\r\n\r\nClients are able to eat, sleep until the sun rises and actually enjoy their event because we have everything more than handled. When a client throws her arms around you and tells you she couldn\'t ever imagine holding an event without you, you know you\'ve hit the mark.\r\n<h3>Event Showcase One</h3>\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #99cc00;\">Fa Bene!</span></strong>\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone wp-image-4640\" title=\"Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces corporate events, worldwide. We partner with our clients to create goal driven, strategic events. We begin with a discovery session so key stakeholders can share their goals and vision. Event Company of the Year: Strategic Meetings &amp; Events\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/FaBene-1-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces corporate events, worldwide. We partner with our clients to create goal driven, strategic events. We begin with a discovery session so key stakeholders can share their goals and vision. Event Company of the Year: Strategic Meetings &amp; Events\" width=\"465\" height=\"308\" />\r\n\r\nWhat do you do with this client request? \"We need a networking event and an ice breaker but we can\'t make it look as if we\'re doing an ice breaker or a team building event\".\r\n\r\nFor the SME team, the answer was taking the guests to a winery in Rome during their incentive trip to Italy. Once there, they met the woman who has been cooking in the winery\'s kitchen for more than 30 years. The plan was for her to show everyone how to make hand rolled pasta. The catch: she didn\'t speak a word of English and few of our attendees spoke Italian.\r\n\r\nThe guests watched as \'Nonna\' broke an egg into the farina flour and began to knead the mixture. They followed suit, some with more success than others. As Nonna walked \'round the table to inspect the guests\' handiwork she expressed her pleasure or dismay in one of two ways: a kiss on each cheek and a hearty, \'fa bene!\' was heard or she\'d pat you on the cheek. The fun part was that before she\'d pat your cheek she\'d put her hand on the table so it was covered in flour, and THEN give guests a friendly pat. Needless to say much laughter ensued whether you had to bend down to let this powerhouse of no more than 5\' either kiss you or cover you in flour.\r\n\r\nGuests were brought to a large, rustic dining room where they sampled literally dozens of Nonna\'s creations. The pasta course arrived and was devoured, just as everything else was.\r\n\r\nWine, merriment, great food and now good friends the team bonded and networked and were none the wiser.\r\n\r\nTo that we also issue a hearty; \'Fa bene!\'\r\n<h3>Event Showcase Two</h3>\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #99cc00;\">Dancing in the Dark</span></strong>\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone wp-image-4641\" title=\"Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces corporate events, worldwide. We partner with our clients to create goal driven, strategic events. We begin with a discovery session so key stakeholders can share their goals and vision. Event Company of the Year: Strategic Meetings &amp; Events\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/iluminate2w-300x169.jpg\" alt=\"Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces corporate events, worldwide. We partner with our clients to create goal driven, strategic events. We begin with a discovery session so key stakeholders can share their goals and vision. Event Company of the Year: Strategic Meetings &amp; Events\" width=\"505\" height=\"284\" />\r\n\r\nThe window we have to plan <a href=\"https://strategic.events/event-strategist/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategic</a> events is getting smaller with each passing year. What was once a twelve month <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-event-planning-profession/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planning</a> cycle has devolved into twelve weeks and in the instance of this program we had just about twelve days. I had the pleasure of picking up a new piece of business from a referral and it was the most challenging \'easy piece of business\' I\'ve had in a long time!\r\n\r\nThe client was hosting a medical team of approximately 75 people. They wanted entertainment that was something guests would likely have never seen before. It had to have a technology flavor and there was a very limited budget. The challenges were numerous; the client\'s style was unknown to me, their audience a bit hard to get details on and the event was in a space I\'d never seen and had no time to site.\r\n\r\nUltimately, a <a href=\"http://www.iluminate.com/\">dance group</a> that performed in the dark was selected so the quick turn preparations began. Tickets were booked from all parts of the country, housing needs had to be tended to, hospitality riders had to be fulfilled and diagrams drawn. And, oh, by the way, we needed to construct a black box and stage for the dancers as they needed a performance area that was devoid of all light for their act to be successful.\r\n\r\nMy production connection was a hero. His team built a stage with blackout sidewalls and ceilings, a Marley floor and a traveling curtain. We created the setup in 1/3 of a small ballroom and it was done in two hours total as the talent had to practice and they couldn\'t take the stage until they had practiced, in the dark, in the space we created for them. The room became ours at 2:30 and dinner started just after 6:00. No pressure at all.....\r\n\r\nThe dancers arrived, and understandably, wanted to rehearse in complete darkness to get a feel of the stage. It was a smaller footprint than their standard build so it was essential they got the layout memorized before the guests arrived. Were we not also loading furniture, linens, florals and décor into the room and installing lighting around the space, turning off the lights would have been an easy request. So we had two groups of people working at top speed, one which needed lights, one which needed complete darkness and the clock was ticking.\r\n\r\nWe had the dancers rehearse with the lights on for as long as possible and then the rest of the crew had to stop so they could do run throughs in the dark. It was amazing to see them choreograph with the lights on. When we saw the performance in the dark, it was a level of excellence I\'ve never before seen.\r\n\r\nWhen the <a href=\"https://strategic.events/event-industry-plan-future/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">time</a> came, the lights went down, the music was turned up and the dancers took flight, outlined in neon, costumes pulsing to the music. The act was a complete hit. The audience was entertained, the client was happy and ten minutes after the last guest left, the stage was gone, leaving nothing but the memory of a job very well done, albeit in the dark and in record time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Strategic Meetings &amp; Events, Strategic Events, Strategic Planners, Event Planning, Event Planners, Events, Meetings, Corporate Events, Corporate Meetings, Strategic Events, Catersource</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.catersource.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-4642\" title=\"Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces corporate events, worldwide. We partner with our clients to create goal driven, strategic events.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/download.png\" alt=\"Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces corporate events, worldwide. We partner with our clients to create goal driven, strategic events.\" width=\"169\" height=\"96\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Event Company of the Year: Strategic Meetings & Events','','inherit','closed','closed','','4639-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 22:08:37','2018-02-06 22:08:37','',4639,'https://strategic.events/4639-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10122,3,'2018-02-06 22:15:18','2018-02-06 22:15:18','<h2>Strategic Meetings &amp; Events, New Jersey\r\nEvent Company of the Year</h2>\r\n<h3>Strategic Events Summary</h3>\r\nStrategic Meetings &amp; Events produces corporate events, worldwide. We partner with our clients to create goal driven, strategic events. We begin with a discovery session so key stakeholders can share their goals and vision. We take that directive and work with the sales and marketing team to make sure everyone has the same goal. Read on to learn more about the event company of the year: Strategic Meetings &amp; Events\r\n\r\nArmed with that <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategically-building-your-information-pipeline/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">information</a> we can then select the appropriate location, venue, room sets, food and décor. We appreciate that the meeting\'s content is an integral component of the program so we pay special attention to those details as well. From creating speaker tips to slide templates assuring everyone is using the same size slides, we help coordinate what\'s happening inside the ballroom, not just the logistics around it. Speaker run-throughs are hosted and on the day of the event we\'re there with our rundown in hand, greeting speakers, keeping the timing on schedule and making sure the session runs smoothly\r\n\r\nWhile that\'s happening, the rest of the team is setting up for evening and offsite <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategic</a> events, handling pop-up requests, confirming transportation arrangements, handling room drops and managing all the <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-supplies-inventory/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">onsite</a> details.\r\n\r\nClients are able to eat, sleep until the sun rises and actually enjoy their event because we have everything more than handled. When a client throws her arms around you and tells you she couldn\'t ever imagine holding an event without you, you know you\'ve hit the mark.\r\n<h3>Event Showcase One</h3>\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #99cc00;\">Fa Bene!</span></strong>\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone wp-image-4640\" title=\"Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces corporate events, worldwide. We partner with our clients to create goal driven, strategic events. We begin with a discovery session so key stakeholders can share their goals and vision. Event Company of the Year: Strategic Meetings &amp; Events\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/FaBene-1-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces corporate events, worldwide. We partner with our clients to create goal driven, strategic events. We begin with a discovery session so key stakeholders can share their goals and vision. Event Company of the Year: Strategic Meetings &amp; Events\" width=\"465\" height=\"308\" />\r\n\r\nWhat do you do with this client request? \"We need a networking event and an ice breaker but we can\'t make it look as if we\'re doing an ice breaker or a team building event\".\r\n\r\nFor the SME team, the answer was taking the guests to a winery in Rome during their incentive trip to Italy. Once there, they met the woman who has been cooking in the winery\'s kitchen for more than 30 years. The plan was for her to show everyone how to make hand rolled pasta. The catch: she didn\'t speak a word of English and few of our attendees spoke Italian.\r\n\r\nThe guests watched as \'Nonna\' broke an egg into the farina flour and began to knead the mixture. They followed suit, some with more success than others. As Nonna walked \'round the table to inspect the guests\' handiwork she expressed her pleasure or dismay in one of two ways: a kiss on each cheek and a hearty, \'fa bene!\' was heard or she\'d pat you on the cheek. The fun part was that before she\'d pat your cheek she\'d put her hand on the table so it was covered in flour, and THEN give guests a friendly pat. Needless to say much laughter ensued whether you had to bend down to let this powerhouse of no more than 5\' either kiss you or cover you in flour.\r\n\r\nGuests were brought to a large, rustic dining room where they sampled literally dozens of Nonna\'s creations. The pasta course arrived and was devoured, just as everything else was.\r\n\r\nWine, merriment, great food and now good friends the team bonded and networked and were none the wiser.\r\n\r\nTo that we also issue a hearty; \'Fa bene!\'\r\n<h3>Event Showcase Two</h3>\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #99cc00;\">Dancing in the Dark</span></strong>\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone wp-image-4641\" title=\"Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces corporate events, worldwide. We partner with our clients to create goal driven, strategic events. We begin with a discovery session so key stakeholders can share their goals and vision. Event Company of the Year: Strategic Meetings &amp; Events\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/iluminate2w-300x169.jpg\" alt=\"Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces corporate events, worldwide. We partner with our clients to create goal driven, strategic events. We begin with a discovery session so key stakeholders can share their goals and vision. Event Company of the Year: Strategic Meetings &amp; Events\" width=\"505\" height=\"284\" />\r\n\r\nThe window we have to plan <a href=\"https://strategic.events/event-strategist/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategic</a> events is getting smaller with each passing year. What was once a twelve month <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-event-planning-profession/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planning</a> cycle has devolved into twelve weeks and in the instance of this program we had just about twelve days. I had the pleasure of picking up a new piece of business from a referral and it was the most challenging \'easy piece of business\' I\'ve had in a long time!\r\n\r\nThe client was hosting a medical team of approximately 75 people. They wanted entertainment that was something guests would likely have never seen before. It had to have a technology flavor and there was a very limited budget. The challenges were numerous; the client\'s style was unknown to me, their audience a bit hard to get details on and the event was in a space I\'d never seen and had no time to site.\r\n\r\nUltimately, a <a href=\"http://www.iluminate.com/\">dance group</a> that performed in the dark was selected so the quick turn preparations began. Tickets were booked from all parts of the country, housing needs had to be tended to, hospitality riders had to be fulfilled and diagrams drawn. And, oh, by the way, we needed to construct a black box and stage for the dancers as they needed a performance area that was devoid of all light for their act to be successful.\r\n\r\nMy production connection was a hero. His team built a stage with blackout sidewalls and ceilings, a Marley floor and a traveling curtain. We created the setup in 1/3 of a small ballroom and it was done in two hours total as the talent had to practice and they couldn\'t take the stage until they had practiced, in the dark, in the space we created for them. The room became ours at 2:30 and dinner started just after 6:00. No pressure at all.....\r\n\r\nThe dancers arrived, and understandably, wanted to rehearse in complete darkness to get a feel of the stage. It was a smaller footprint than their standard build so it was essential they got the layout memorized before the guests arrived. Were we not also loading furniture, linens, florals and décor into the room and installing lighting around the space, turning off the lights would have been an easy request. So we had two groups of people working at top speed, one which needed lights, one which needed complete darkness and the clock was ticking.\r\n\r\nWe had the dancers rehearse with the lights on for as long as possible and then the rest of the crew had to stop so they could do run throughs in the dark. It was amazing to see them choreograph with the lights on. When we saw the performance in the dark, it was a level of excellence I\'ve never before seen.\r\n\r\nWhen the <a href=\"https://strategic.events/event-industry-plan-future/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">time</a> came, the lights went down, the music was turned up and the dancers took flight, outlined in neon, costumes pulsing to the music. The act was a complete hit. The audience was entertained, the client was happy and ten minutes after the last guest left, the stage was gone, leaving nothing but the memory of a job very well done, albeit in the dark and in record time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Strategic Meetings &amp; Events, Strategic Events, Strategic Planners, Event Planning, Event Planners, Events, Meetings, Corporate Events, Corporate Meetings, Strategic Events, Catersource</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.catersource.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-4642\" title=\"Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces corporate events, worldwide. We partner with our clients to create goal driven, strategic events.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/download.png\" alt=\"Strategic Meetings &amp; Events produces corporate events, worldwide. We partner with our clients to create goal driven, strategic events.\" width=\"169\" height=\"96\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Event Company of the Year: Strategic Meetings & Events','','inherit','closed','closed','','4639-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 22:15:18','2018-02-06 22:15:18','',4639,'https://strategic.events/4639-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10123,3,'2018-02-06 22:18:35','2018-02-06 22:18:35','<h2>Asking Strategic Questions</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\n<div>\r\n<div class=\"wsite-multicol\">\r\n<p class=\"wsite-multicol-table-wrap\">• 25 strategic questions to ask CVBs\r\n• Gaining knowledge to accurately choose a destination for your meeting or event</p>\r\n<a href=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/question-mark-cool.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-3813\" title=\"Strategic questions event planners frequently ask\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/question-mark-cool-300x169.jpg\" alt=\"Strategic questions event planners frequently ask\" width=\"315\" height=\"178\" /></a>No one can think of everything, but with this handy list, you’re well on your way to a productive conversation with a CVB. Remember, the goal of the CVB is to share area expertise and to earn your business, so make sure you utilize their wealth of knowledge to the fullest.\r\n<h3>Strategic Questions</h3>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n<p class=\"paragraph\"><strong>1.</strong> Are there any incentives being offered by the City to bring an event? If so, what are the parameters?\r\n<strong>2.</strong> Do you have a site visit program?\r\n<strong>3.</strong> If my group/event is large enough, would you consider hosting the client’s airfare to do a site visit?\r\n<strong>4.</strong> Are there any city-wide events going on the week of, the week prior to, or the week after my proposed dates?\r\n<strong>5.</strong> Are you aware of any new hotels coming online that are not yet open but will be when we are hosting our event?\r\n<strong>6.</strong> Are any of the current hotels planning renovations?\r\n<strong>7.</strong> What is the largest event the City hosts? How many people attend?\r\n<strong>8. </strong>Are there any local events taking place over my dates that I could consider for my group?\r\n<strong>9.</strong> What is your City best known for? What food is your city famous for?\r\n<strong>10.</strong> Do you offer maps or collateral we can hand out at our registration desk?\r\n<strong>11.</strong> What apps/links can you provide to help us promote the City?\r\n<strong>12.</strong> Do you offer a custom landing page we can use?\r\n<strong>13.</strong> Why is your City the best place to take our event?\r\n<strong>14.</strong> What corporations consistently host events here? May I have a contact name?\r\n<strong>15.</strong> Is there any major construction or repair work scheduled for your airports, mass transit, roadways, bridges, and tunnels of which you are aware?\r\n<strong>16.</strong> Is there a city-wide labor union contract that is due to expire/be negotiated between now and my event?\r\n<strong>17.</strong> What taxes and fees are imposed by the City on meeting rooms, sleeping rooms, etc.? Is there a motion to have these fees increased between now and our event? If so, by how much?\r\n<strong>18.</strong> Are our event dates during your high or low season?\r\n<strong>19.</strong> Is there a weather pattern that falls over the timeframe we intend to come of which I should be aware?\r\n<strong>20.</strong> What DMC consistently gets the best feedback from clients?\r\n<strong>21.</strong> Is Uber allowed at the airports?\r\n<strong>22.</strong> What is the airport proximity to your desired location? Is public transportation available? What is the approximate drive time during rush hours?\r\n<strong>23.</strong> Do you have a list of direct flights per day for your local airport that you can share?\r\n<strong>24.</strong> What independent (non-chain) hotels are available?\r\n<strong>25.</strong> What locations within your destination can accommodate my group and its needs?\r\n<strong>26.</strong> <u>Bonus question</u>: What did I forget to ask that I should know or that you want to tell me?</p>\r\n<p class=\"paragraph\"><em>Tags: Asking Strategic Questions, Strategic Questions, CVB, CVBs, City, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Midwest Meetings</em></p>\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.midwestmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-1348 size-full\" title=\"Midwest Meetings\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Midwest-Meetings-logo-swoosh.jpg\" alt=\"Midwest Meetings\" width=\"170\" height=\"58\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Asking Strategic Questions','','inherit','closed','closed','','3807-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 22:18:35','2018-02-06 22:18:35','',3807,'https://strategic.events/3807-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10124,3,'2018-02-06 22:36:28','2018-02-06 22:36:28','<h2>Asking Strategic Questions</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\n<div>\r\n<div class=\"wsite-multicol\">\r\n<p class=\"wsite-multicol-table-wrap\">• 25 strategic questions to ask CVBs\r\n• Gaining knowledge to accurately choose a destination for your meeting or event</p>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-3813\" title=\"No one can think of everything, but with this handy list, you’re well on your way to a productive conversation with a CVB. Remember, the goal of the CVB is to share area expertise and to earn your business, so make sure you utilize their wealth of knowledge to the fullest. Asking Strategic Questions\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/question-mark-cool-300x169.jpg\" alt=\"No one can think of everything, but with this handy list, you’re well on your way to a productive conversation with a CVB. Remember, the goal of the CVB is to share area expertise and to earn your business, so make sure you utilize their wealth of knowledge to the fullest. Asking Strategic Questions\" width=\"315\" height=\"178\" />No one can think of everything, but with this handy list, you’re well on your way to a productive conversation with a CVB. Remember, the goal of the CVB is to share area expertise and to earn your business, so make sure you utilize their wealth of knowledge to the fullest.\r\n<h3>Strategic Questions</h3>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n<p class=\"paragraph\"><strong>1.</strong> Are there any incentives being offered by the City to bring an event? If so, what are the parameters?\r\n<strong>2.</strong> Do you have a site visit program?\r\n<strong>3.</strong> If my group/event is large enough, would you consider hosting the client’s airfare to do a site visit?\r\n<strong>4.</strong> Are there any city-wide events going on the week of, the week prior to, or the week after my proposed dates?\r\n<strong>5.</strong> Are you aware of any new hotels coming online that are not yet open but will be when we are hosting our event?\r\n<strong>6.</strong> Are any of the current hotels planning renovations?\r\n<strong>7.</strong> What is the largest event the City hosts? How many people attend?\r\n<strong>8. </strong>Are there any local events taking place over my dates that I could consider for my group?\r\n<strong>9.</strong> What is your City best known for? What food is your city famous for?\r\n<strong>10.</strong> Do you offer maps or collateral we can hand out at our registration desk?\r\n<strong>11.</strong> What apps/links can you provide to help us promote the City?\r\n<strong>12.</strong> Do you offer a custom landing page we can use?\r\n<strong>13.</strong> Why is your City the best place to take our event?\r\n<strong>14.</strong> What corporations consistently host events here? May I have a contact name?\r\n<strong>15.</strong> Is there any major construction or repair work scheduled for your airports, mass transit, roadways, bridges, and tunnels of which you are aware?\r\n<strong>16.</strong> Is there a city-wide labor union contract that is due to expire/be negotiated between now and my event?\r\n<strong>17.</strong> What taxes and fees are imposed by the City on meeting rooms, sleeping rooms, etc.? Is there a motion to have these fees increased between now and our event? If so, by how much?\r\n<strong>18.</strong> Are our event dates during your high or low season?\r\n<strong>19.</strong> Is there a weather pattern that falls over the timeframe we intend to come of which I should be aware?\r\n<strong>20.</strong> What DMC consistently gets the best feedback from clients?\r\n<strong>21.</strong> Is Uber allowed at the airports?\r\n<strong>22.</strong> What is the airport proximity to your desired location? Is public transportation available? What is the approximate drive time during rush hours?\r\n<strong>23.</strong> Do you have a list of direct flights per day for your local airport that you can share?\r\n<strong>24.</strong> What independent (non-chain) hotels are available?\r\n<strong>25.</strong> What locations within your destination can accommodate my group and its needs?\r\n<strong>26.</strong> <u>Bonus question</u>: What did I forget to ask that I should know or that you want to tell me?</p>\r\n<p class=\"paragraph\"><em>Tags: Asking Strategic Questions, Strategic Questions, CVB, CVBs, City, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events, Midwest Meetings</em></p>\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.midwestmeetings.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-1348 size-full\" title=\"Midwest Meetings\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Midwest-Meetings-logo-swoosh.jpg\" alt=\"Midwest Meetings\" width=\"170\" height=\"58\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Asking Strategic Questions','','inherit','closed','closed','','3807-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 22:36:28','2018-02-06 22:36:28','',3807,'https://strategic.events/3807-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10125,3,'2018-02-06 22:39:48','2018-02-06 22:39:48','<h2>Fostering Great Supplier Relationships</h2>\r\n<h3>By Mark Rowh</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-4206\" title=\"Planners need suppliers. Vendors need business from planners. But is mutual dependence enough to make for solid relationships? In answering such a question, a study by the Incentive Research Foundation may be revealing. Fostering Great Supplier Relationships\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/IFMM-2017-0102JanFeb-Supplier_Planner_Relationships-860x418-300x146.jpg\" alt=\"Planners need suppliers. Vendors need business from planners. But is mutual dependence enough to make for solid relationships? In answering such a question, a study by the Incentive Research Foundation may be revealing. Fostering Great Supplier Relationships\" width=\"543\" height=\"265\" />\r\n\r\nPlanners need suppliers. Vendors need business from planners. But is mutual dependence enough to make for solid relationships?\r\n\r\nIn answering such a question, a study by the Incentive Research Foundation may be revealing. Results of the study, announced in November, were based on a survey of 126 hotel sales representatives and 160 meeting and incentive travel planners about the present state of the hotelier-planner relationship.\r\n\r\nOn the plus side, the majority of both planners and hoteliers indicated they viewed their relationship with the other party as either collaborative or supportive. But at the same time, depending on the hotel role in question (national sales, property sales, or convention services manager) just 11 to 22 percent of planners rated the relationship as one of full trust or friendship.\r\n\r\n<strong>“Without our vendors, we cannot be of service to our clients,” she says. “We cannot be masters of all tasks so it is essential for strategic planners to have a network of trusted partners with whom they work.”</strong>\r\n<strong> — Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</strong>\r\n\r\nThe study identified several other challenges, with rising costs and space/date availability seen as particularly pressing issues, along with the eRFP process. Another concern was the increasingly transactional and technological nature of these relationships.\r\n\r\nSo how can planners make the most of relationships with suppliers? Christy Lamagna, founder of New Jersey-based <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Strategic</a> Meetings &amp; Events, says an important first step is to recognize just how important vendors are to successful meetings.\r\n\r\n“Without our vendors, we cannot be of service to our clients,” she says. “We cannot be masters of all tasks so it is essential for strategic planners to have a network of trusted partners with whom they work.”\r\n<h2>Treat With Respect</h2>\r\nIn fact vendors should be extensions of your team, she argues.\r\n\r\n“They are the backbone on which your business functions and should be treated with tremendous respect,” she says. How someone treats their vendors is usually indicative of how they treat employees, she adds. If employees are unhappy that shows in their work product or in potential turnover mid-program.\r\n\r\nFor the optimum working relationship, suppliers need to demonstrate that they share your values and work ethic and echo your work style, Lamagna notes. Once that has been established, consistently professional treatment should go both ways.\r\n\r\n“By channeling all appropriate spend to vetted vendors you can leverage spend, receive preferred treatment and deliver more to your clients while simultaneously bringing them business,” she says. “In return for their service, their invoices should be paid within 14 days of receipt.”\r\n\r\nLamagna recalls an incident that taught her an early lesson in how exceptional treatment can lead to productive long-term relationships. In her first communication with The Westin St. Francis in San Francisco, she was faced with the daunting task of explaining that a staff member had bought out their hotel by mistake due to a catastrophic math error. In fact the same mistake had been made with a total of four hotels, and 18,000 room nights had been booked instead of 1,800.\r\n\r\n“I had to reverse-engineer contracts with multiple hotels,” she says, but three of the four hotels held the company to the contract as signed.”\r\n\r\nThe St. Francis representative told her that he felt terrible for the situation she was put in and then brainstormed on ways to create a win-win.\r\n\r\n“That by far is the best customer service I have ever received, and that happened 17 years ago,” she says. “To this day I tell that story and work with him whenever I can.”\r\n\r\nEven if relationships are not warm and fuzzy, it’s important to keep them on the positive side, according to Greg Palomino, CMP, CSEP, CEO of CRE8AD8 Event &amp; Travel Management in San Antonio, Texas.\r\n\r\n“Building and retaining relationships with vendors is like keeping in touch with family or your boss,” he says. “You may not always need or want to talk to them, but when you need them, they’ll be there. And the more you keep in touch, the less awkward it will feel asking for help or discounts.”\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft wp-image-4209\" title=\"Planners need suppliers. Vendors need business from planners. But is mutual dependence enough to make for solid relationships? In answering such a question, a study by the Incentive Research Foundation may be revealing. Fostering Great Supplier Relationships\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/VXGTRTVD1M-300x215.jpg\" alt=\"Planners need suppliers. Vendors need business from planners. But is mutual dependence enough to make for solid relationships? In answering such a question, a study by the Incentive Research Foundation may be revealing. Fostering Great Supplier Relationships\" width=\"356\" height=\"255\" />Palomino says while vendors realize they’re on the sales side of events, they appreciate being treated as more than just suppliers.\r\n\r\n“They know you need them, and they want to sell you something, but treating them as such will never get you in good graces for the cool, new, trendy and available concessions if you can’t be friendly and approachable,” he says. “Spending time with your vendors, getting to know them and treating them like part of the team is important,” he says. He notes that keeping vendors in your social media loop is a good way to keep in touch without spending the time to talk with them frequently.\r\n\r\n“You’d be surprised how many of our vendors we may only talk with once every quarter, but they know about my life, kids and hobbies,” Palomino says.\r\n\r\nOf course not every partnership experience can be positive, but even less successful experiences may inform future operations, especially when there are multiple options from which to choose.\r\n<h2></h2>\r\n<h2>Communication Is Key</h2>\r\n“The benefit of us as an event management company is that we’ve produced so many <a href=\"https://strategic.events/event-strategist/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">events</a> that we’ve weeded out the vendors that are just not a good fit for us or our clients,” Palomino says. He finds prompt communication a must. If it takes more than a day to connect with a vendor, other than during a holiday period, he feels that the vendor is not a good choice for his firm.\r\n\r\n“If they’re too busy for us, then they’re never going to get us answers for our client in a timely manner either,” he says.\r\n\r\nKeeping an open mind is also well-advised, Palomino says. “Be friendly and be open to ideas, because the majority of the time, you don’t know what’s out there and what it costs,” he says. “Be open to paying more for things you want and cut things that don’t make sense.”\r\n\r\nBarbara Myers, CAE, is CEO at Arlington, Virginia-based IMN Solutions, and works with clients in the insurance and financial industries. She says it pays to discuss your vision of the relationship.\r\n\r\n“Outsourced relationships that are the most successful are ones where the provider is an integral part of your in-house team,” she says. “Be candid and establish open lines of communication, be clear about your expectations and share details of the project’s progress, challenges, internal conflicts or changes that need to be made.”\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-4210\" title=\"Planners need suppliers. Vendors need business from planners. But is mutual dependence enough to make for solid relationships? In answering such a question, a study by the Incentive Research Foundation may be revealing. Fostering Great Supplier Relationships\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Z1TKDI29FZ-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"Planners need suppliers. Vendors need business from planners. But is mutual dependence enough to make for solid relationships? In answering such a question, a study by the Incentive Research Foundation may be revealing. Fostering Great Supplier Relationships\" width=\"389\" height=\"260\" />Myers says accepting feedback is also a key.\r\n\r\n“One benefit of outsourcing is that vendors have experience with many other organizations doing similar work and can offer recommendations for improvements or changes,” she says. To this end, managers should communicate the firm’s vision of the outsourced relationship to all staff, clearly identify who is responsible for each part of the project and clarify relevant time lines.\r\n\r\nA major area where relationships become especially important is in contract negotiations, according to Marla Harr, business professional development consultant with Business Etiquette International and who also teaches meeting management at Arizona State University.\r\n\r\n“It goes back to the old saying that people do business with people they know, like and trust, and it takes time to develop a relationship that reflects that saying,” she says. “Once you do, it makes the contract process so much easier.”\r\n\r\nWith a hotel contract, for example, a positive relationship may make it more likely to gain concessions such as discounts on food and beverages, audio-visual equipment and staff room rates, even for a conference that is not a real revenue generator for the hotel.\r\n\r\n“In real estate, it’s location, location, location,” Harr says. “I believe in the event world it really is relationship, relationship, relationship.”\r\n\r\nShe says that even with a smaller conference there can be a host of suppliers such as the hotel, AV company, ground transportation, florist, provider of give-a-way items and speakers. “You need a good relationship with all of them to ensure a smooth event,” she says. “The trick is to make them feel a part of the team and the event.”\r\n\r\nShe recalls a proposed hotel contract where the in-house AV company wanted to charge about $30,000 for three days of internet service.\r\n\r\n“Needless to say it was way over my budget and really ridiculous pricing,” she says. “It was a deal breaker, but my hotel sales person got it down to where we could afford the internet and use that hotel. Relationships were the key.”\r\n\r\nHarr adds that holding an event in another country brings a whole new ball game in building relationships.\r\n\r\n“It takes time, research and understanding as to how that country does business based on their customs and cultural differences to the way we do business,” he says. “If a planner hasn’t done due diligence before planning an event in a foreign country, they are in for many surprises that could cost money, time and the success of the event.”\r\n<h2>Trusted Advisor</h2>\r\nAnil Punyapu, vice president of sales at Cvent, an enterprise event management company based in Tysons Corner, Virginia, echoes the importance of the trust factor.\r\n\r\nA good relationship among meeting planners and suppliers and other partners is similar to a “trusted advisor” relationship that requires effort from both sides, he says. “Suppliers should focus on gaining industry insights so that they may apply these insights to aid their client, while planners — through having access to a lot of data and <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategically-building-your-information-pipeline/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">information</a> on the web — should expect and trust the direct market insights of the supplier.”\r\n\r\nHe notes that in developing a good relationship with a supplier, meeting planners should focus on understanding the motivations and long-term goals of the supplier. At the same time, meeting planners should understand the supplier’s profit margins and apply reasonable numbers to them.\r\n\r\nA mistake, he adds, is to focus too much on minor cost savings.\r\n\r\n“Planners too often mistakenly commoditize the relationship with the suppliers to try to save a few dollars,” Punyapu says. “This can backfire and result in losing supplier loyalty during tough times.”\r\n\r\nNegotiate in Good Faith and Keep Communication Open\r\n\r\nJeff Kear, founder of event management software provider Planning Pod, in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, emphasizes the importance of professionalism with the financial side of event management.\r\n\r\n“Negotiate with suppliers in good faith and pay on time,” he says. “Nothing will get you blacklisted faster by a supplier than if you pay them late or repeatedly beat them up on pricing to the point that they barely make a profit.” He says that every supplier involved in an event deserves a fair profit, and if assuring that poses problems, planners should look to additional sources of funding for the event in question. The alternative is to end up working with low-cost providers who may cut corners and provide inferior service, irreparably harming events in the process.\r\n\r\nKear also suggests promoting suppliers and partners whenever possible and sending referrals their way.\r\n\r\n“The best way to have your partners go above and beyond for you with your events is to spread your love for them ahead of time,” he says. “This includes shouting out about them consistently on social media and recommending them to your industry peers when they have a need for the partner’s services.” In making referrals, he adds, the best way to make sure suppliers realize where the referral came from is to provide an introduction via email.\r\n\r\nTaking the broad view is also advisable, according to Andrew Schrage, co-owner of Denver-based Money Crashers Personal Finance, who says the reasons for building relationships with suppliers go beyond any single meeting.\r\n\r\n“If one were just planning a one-off event, it might not be necessary,” he says. “But these relationships are essential moving forward so you can get possible discounts for repeat business, better and faster customer service, and last-minute orders fulfilled when necessary.”\r\n\r\nTo foster such relationships, he suggests staying in touch on a continual basis.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft wp-image-4214\" title=\"Planners need suppliers. Vendors need business from planners. But is mutual dependence enough to make for solid relationships? In answering such a question, a study by the Incentive Research Foundation may be revealing. Fostering Great Supplier Relationships\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Fotolia_Handshake-e1317007202200-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"Planners need suppliers. Vendors need business from planners. But is mutual dependence enough to make for solid relationships? In answering such a question, a study by the Incentive Research Foundation may be revealing. Fostering Great Supplier Relationships\" width=\"356\" height=\"239\" />“Even if you don’t need an order or other service, it never hurts to check in once in a while,” he says. “Connect with your vendors on your social media accounts. It’s another great way to keep in touch and stay abreast of current events and trends.”\r\n\r\nBeing considerate with deadlines also will be appreciated.\r\n\r\n“Give them as much lead time as possible when planning your events,” Schrage says. “Last-minute stuff will probably pop up from time to time, but try to keep that as minimal as possible.”\r\n\r\nAnother step is simply offering praise. “Give a shout out or mention of the vendors and suppliers at your event,” he says. “They’ll appreciate the free advertising, and it also will further foster the relationship.”\r\n\r\nIn any transaction, all parties concerned should remember that relationships go both ways reminds Kim Harvey, sales manager at Doral Arrowwood in White Plains, New York. In her work with planners, she has learned to meet high expectations.\r\n\r\n“Financial and insurance meeting planning professionals are typically very seasoned and knowledgeable of their hospitality industry partners, capabilities and services,” Harvey says. “I feel it is necessary to approach meeting planners in this market on a consultative basis. It’s key to provide them with open, honest and strong communications.”\r\n\r\nShe says that to be successful and foster strong relationships with clients in this market, she and her team must understand who they are and what their needs are by asking key <a href=\"https://strategic.events/asking-strategic-questions-cvb/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">questions</a>: what division, what level of group, why they have a need for the offsite meeting, what is important to the host, what are the organization’s goals?\r\n\r\n“The more we understand a client’s needs the better we understand if we are truly the best location for the meeting or if we should recommend another property in our portfolio or elsewhere,” she says. This necessitates clearly understanding the meeting planner’s needs, the attendees’ needs and the overall corporate goal.\r\n\r\n“Clients are looking for a quality experience at the best possible value,” Harvey says. “This industry, like many others, is doing more with less, and we need to support our clients in this market more than ever.”\r\n<h2>The Bottom Line</h2>\r\nIn any setting, <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-event-planning-profession/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planners</a> will do well to make a conscious and consistent effort to foster great relationships. Lamagna advises keeping in mind that dealing with a vendor makes for a reciprocating relationship. “Vendors can be a pipeline for new clients, advise you when you need creative solutions related to their areas of expertise, and are often relied upon when a client needs an impossible ask in an improbable time frame,” she says. “Vendors are there to fill in your gaps be it knowledge or manpower. You need them to want to help you shine.”\r\n\r\nFor that to happen of course, vendors must feel that you are treating them well.\r\n\r\n“Nothing inspires loyalty as much as respect and kindness,” Lamagna says. So behavior that reflects those values is a must.\r\n\r\n“Bottom line: your vendors are walking billboards for your organization,” she says. “It’s your choice as to what they’re saying about you.”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: Fostering Great Supplier Relationships, Supplier Relationships, Insurance &amp; Financial Meetings Management, The Meeting Magazines, Event Planning, Strategic Planners, Corporate Meetings, Corporate Events</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"http://www.themeetingmagazines.com/ifmm/fostering-great-supplier-relationships/?post_type=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-4207 size-medium\" title=\"The Meeting Magazines\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/logo-insurance-300x95.jpg\" alt=\"The Meeting Magazines\" width=\"300\" height=\"95\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','Fostering Great Supplier Relationships','','inherit','closed','closed','','4205-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 22:39:48','2018-02-06 22:39:48','',4205,'https://strategic.events/4205-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10127,3,'2018-02-06 22:48:08','2018-02-06 22:48:08','<h2>The Strategic Life - Insightful Thinking and Asserting Planner Value</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\n• Insightful thinking and strategic life strategies • Planning for changes in the meeting and event industry • Asserting <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planner</a> value\r\n\r\nMy close friend is a bespoke tailor. He is always impeccably dressed. It’s a natural byproduct of what he does for a living and he realizes he is a walking billboard for his services. Another friend is a designer of kitchenware and is married to an architect. You should see the remodel they just completed on their kitchen. Everyone who visits wants to hire them, and rightly so. My girlfriend who owns a salon never has a hair out of place and is a walking ad for what a great stylist can do to enhance your looks.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"wp-image-7667 alignright\" title=\"Insightful thinking and strategies, planning for changes in the meeting and event industry, and, asserting planner value all involve the strategic life.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/slide6-1024x576.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"419\" height=\"235\" />Most people apply the talent, trade, or skill they have pursued professionally to benefit their own lives. If you’re great at something, why wouldn’t you be a beneficiary of that ability? Granted, there are exceptions; many chefs don’t always cook when at home but it’s their conscious choice to avoid a stove when not at work.\r\n\r\nEvent planners are another exception to the ‘benefit from your own skills’ rule but in our instance, it’s not by conscious choice. It’s commonplace for our days to have no clearly defined end time. Our work-weeks often spill into weekends. Many of us accomplish more before lunch than most do in a day. Add to that that every friend we have calls us when they need something planned and you have a description of 85% of planners in the industry.\r\n\r\nHow is it that we, the meticulously organized, hyper-energetic, and over achieving miracle workers are simultaneously underpaid, profoundly misunderstood, and undervalued professionals? Because we direct our talent almost exclusively outward. We don’t apply our planning skills to enhancing our careers. And we are hurting ourselves in the process.\r\n\r\nGranted, many of us have a career path and goals. I’m referring to applying our skills to fix an industry-wide epidemic of misconceptions about what we do both by our organizations and by the public, a concrete plan to add our voices to executive level meetings, and subsequently, illuminating the undeniable value <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-event-planning-profession/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategically planned meetings</a> bring to organizations’ bottom lines.\r\n\r\nIf we want to experience the respect our actions and work product merits, it is imperative we band together as an industry, create consensus around an overarching professional goal, and develop and become fluent in a shared, strategic vocabulary, which we’ll use to create a universal understanding of the exponential value we deliver every time we deploy our talents. Simply put: we need a plan.\r\n\r\nMy goal is for our industry to take flight and soar to new heights. I’m dedicating a sizable portion of my time to assisting the transformation and creating a long overdue change to incorrect, but long standing, <a href=\"https://strategic.events/party-planner-event-strategist/\">assumptions</a> about what planners do for a living. Because, if someone tells me one more time that, “I’m so lucky I get to travel for a living,” I can’t be responsible for my reaction. (Good news; a future column provides multiple solutions on combating that challenge without violence or yelling.)\r\n\r\n“The Strategic Life” series has been designed in conjunction with Midwest Meetings® to hand you the tools necessary to define, defend, and demonstrate your positions’ value, the vocabulary needed to eloquently articulate your points, and credible data to back up your statements. It will also spotlight those who are already speaking up and taking the industry to new heights. By sharing their insightful thinking and strategies you’ll be able to implement them in your own programs.\r\n\r\nIf you want to get involved start focusing your energy inward. You can start by sharing this column with every industry professional you know and commit to becoming part of the <a href=\"https://strategic.events/time-event-industry-plan-future/\">solution</a>. Introduce me to people who should be featured so they can tell their story. Share this article via social media and start thinking about how much there is to gain and how uniquely equipped we are to create a plan to achieve our goal. It’s exciting.\r\n\r\nI admittedly used to admire my friend the tailor’s clothes and my hairstylist’s great looks. By committing to put my talents to use in my own career and serve as my own billboard I can now afford to hire them both with a lot more frequency. A little targeted effort can yield fantastic results. And few things look as great on a person as success.\r\n\r\nThe time to achieve a new level of success and a professional image that is tailor-made to the value we bring is long overdue. Continue the conversation and add your voice. Find me at: <a href=\"mailto:Christy.Lamagna@Strategic.Events\">Christy.Lamagna@Strategic.Events</a>, <a href=\"http://www.MidwestMeetings.com/Christylamagna\">www.MidwestMeetings.com/Christylamagna</a>, and <a href=\"https://twitter.com/SMEChristy\">@SMEChristy</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: The Strategic Life, Strategic Events, Strategic Planners, Planner Value, Strategic Life, Christy Lamagna, Event Planning, Success, Corporate Events, Corporate Meetings, Midwest Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Midwest-Meetings-logo-swoosh.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-1348 size-full\" title=\"http://www.midwestmeetings.com/\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Midwest-Meetings-logo-swoosh.jpg\" alt=\"http://www.midwestmeetings.com/\" width=\"170\" height=\"58\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]aw_js]','The Strategic Life - Insightful Thinking and Asserting Planner Value','','inherit','closed','closed','','4234-autosave-v1','','','2018-02-06 22:48:08','2018-02-06 22:48:08','',4234,'https://strategic.events/4234-autosave-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10128,3,'2018-02-06 22:52:46','2018-02-06 22:52:46','<h2>The Strategic Life - Insightful Thinking and Asserting Planner Value</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\n• Insightful thinking and strategic life strategies\r\n• Planning for changes in the meeting and event industry\r\n• Asserting <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planner</a> value\r\n\r\nMy close friend is a bespoke tailor. He is always impeccably dressed. It’s a natural byproduct of what he does for a living and he realizes he is a walking billboard for his services. Another friend is a designer of kitchenware and is married to an architect. You should see the remodel they just completed on their kitchen. Everyone who visits wants to hire them, and rightly so. My girlfriend who owns a salon never has a hair out of place and is a walking ad for what a great stylist can do to enhance your looks.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"wp-image-7667 alignright\" title=\"Insightful thinking and strategies, planning for changes in the meeting and event industry, and, asserting planner value all involve the strategic life.\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/slide6-1024x576.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"419\" height=\"235\" />Most people apply the talent, trade, or skill they have pursued professionally to benefit their own lives. If you’re great at something, why wouldn’t you be a beneficiary of that ability? Granted, there are exceptions; many chefs don’t always cook when at home but it’s their conscious choice to avoid a stove when not at work.\r\n\r\nEvent planners are another exception to the ‘benefit from your own skills’ rule but in our instance, it’s not by conscious choice. It’s commonplace for our days to have no clearly defined end time. Our work-weeks often spill into weekends. Many of us accomplish more before lunch than most do in a day. Add to that that every friend we have calls us when they need something planned and you have a description of 85% of planners in the industry.\r\n\r\nHow is it that we, the meticulously organized, hyper-energetic, and overachieving miracle workers are simultaneously underpaid, profoundly misunderstood, and undervalued professionals? Because we direct our talent almost exclusively outward. We don’t apply our planning skills to enhancing our careers. And we are hurting ourselves in the process.\r\n\r\nGranted, many of us have a career path and goals. I’m referring to applying our skills to fix an industry-wide epidemic of misconceptions about what we do both by our organizations and by the public, a concrete plan to add our voices to executive level meetings, and subsequently, illuminating the undeniable value <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-event-planning-profession/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategically planned meetings</a> bring to organizations’ bottom lines.\r\n\r\nIf we want to experience the respect our actions and work product merits, it is imperative we band together as an industry, create consensus around an overarching professional goal, and develop and become fluent in a shared, strategic vocabulary, which we’ll use to create a universal understanding of the exponential value we deliver every time we deploy our talents. Simply put: we need a plan.\r\n\r\nMy goal is for our industry to take flight and soar to new heights. I’m dedicating a sizable portion of my time to assisting the transformation and creating a long overdue change to incorrect, but long standing, <a href=\"https://strategic.events/party-planner-event-strategist/\">assumptions</a> about what planners do for a living. Because, if someone tells me one more time that, “I’m so lucky I get to travel for a living,” I can’t be responsible for my reaction. (Good news; a future column provides multiple solutions on combating that challenge without violence or yelling.)\r\n\r\n“The Strategic Life” series has been designed in conjunction with Midwest Meetings® to hand you the tools necessary to define, defend, and demonstrate your positions’ value, the vocabulary needed to eloquently articulate your points, and credible data to back up your statements. It will also spotlight those who are already speaking up and taking the industry to new heights. By sharing their insightful thinking and strategies you’ll be able to implement them in your own programs.\r\n\r\nIf you want to get involved start focusing your energy inward. You can start by sharing this column with every industry professional you know and commit to becoming part of the <a href=\"https://strategic.events/time-event-industry-plan-future/\">solution</a>. Introduce me to people who should be featured so they can tell their story. Share this article via social media and start thinking about how much there is to gain and how uniquely equipped we are to create a plan to achieve our goal. It’s exciting.\r\n\r\nI admittedly used to admire my friend the tailor’s clothes and my hairstylist’s great looks. By committing to put my talents to use in my own career and serve as my own billboard I can now afford to hire them both with a lot more frequency. A little-targeted effort can yield fantastic results. And few things look as great on a person as success.\r\n\r\nThe time to achieve a new level of success and a professional image that is tailor-made to the value we bring is long overdue. Continue the conversation and add your voice. Find me at: <a href=\"mailto:Christy.Lamagna@Strategic.Events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Christy.Lamagna@Strategic.Events</a>, <a href=\"http://www.MidwestMeetings.com/Christylamagna\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.MidwestMeetings.com/Christylamagna</a>, and <a href=\"https://twitter.com/SMEChristy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@SMEChristy</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: The Strategic Life, Strategic Events, Strategic Planners, Planner Value, Strategic Life, Christy Lamagna, Event Planning, Success, Corporate Events, Corporate Meetings, Midwest Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Midwest-Meetings-logo-swoosh.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-1348 size-full\" title=\"http://www.midwestmeetings.com/\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Midwest-Meetings-logo-swoosh.jpg\" alt=\"http://www.midwestmeetings.com/\" width=\"170\" height=\"58\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','The Strategic Life - Insightful Thinking and Asserting Planner Value','','inherit','closed','closed','','4234-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 22:52:46','2018-02-06 22:52:46','',4234,'https://strategic.events/4234-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10129,3,'2018-02-06 23:01:45','2018-02-06 23:01:45','<h2>The Strategic Life - Insightful Thinking and Asserting Planner Value</h2>\r\n<h3>By Christy Lamagna, CMP, CMM, CTSM</h3>\r\n• Insightful thinking and strategic life strategies\r\n• Planning for changes in the meeting and event industry\r\n• Asserting <a href=\"https://strategic.events/become-strategic-planner/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">planner</a> value\r\n\r\nMy close friend is a bespoke tailor. He is always impeccably dressed. It’s a natural byproduct of what he does for a living and he realizes he is a walking billboard for his services. Another friend is a designer of kitchenware and is married to an architect. You should see the remodel they just completed on their kitchen. Everyone who visits wants to hire them, and rightly so. My girlfriend who owns a salon never has a hair out of place and is a walking ad for what a great stylist can do to enhance your looks.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-7667\" title=\"How is it that we, the organized, energetic, and overachieving miracle workers are underpaid, misunderstood, and undervalued professionals? We direct our talent almost exclusively outward. We don’t apply our planning skills to enhancing our careers. The Strategic Life - Insightful Thinking and Asserting Planner Value\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/slide6-1024x576.png\" alt=\"How is it that we, the organized, energetic, and overachieving miracle workers are underpaid, misunderstood, and undervalued professionals? We direct our talent almost exclusively outward. We don’t apply our planning skills to enhancing our careers. The Strategic Life - Insightful Thinking and Asserting Planner Value\" width=\"419\" height=\"235\" />Most people apply the talent, trade, or skill they have pursued professionally to benefit their own lives. If you’re great at something, why wouldn’t you be a beneficiary of that ability? Granted, there are exceptions; many chefs don’t always cook when at home but it’s their conscious choice to avoid a stove when not at work.\r\n\r\nEvent planners are another exception to the ‘benefit from your own skills’ rule but in our instance, it’s not by conscious choice. It’s commonplace for our days to have no clearly defined end time. Our work-weeks often spill into weekends. Many of us accomplish more before lunch than most do in a day. Add to that that every friend we have calls us when they need something planned and you have a description of 85% of planners in the industry.\r\n\r\nHow is it that we, the meticulously organized, hyper-energetic, and overachieving miracle workers are simultaneously underpaid, profoundly misunderstood, and undervalued professionals? Because we direct our talent almost exclusively outward. We don’t apply our planning skills to enhancing our careers. And we are hurting ourselves in the process.\r\n\r\nGranted, many of us have a career path and goals. I’m referring to applying our skills to fix an industry-wide epidemic of misconceptions about what we do both by our organizations and by the public, a concrete plan to add our voices to executive level meetings, and subsequently, illuminating the undeniable value <a href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-event-planning-profession/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">strategically planned meetings</a> bring to organizations’ bottom lines.\r\n\r\nIf we want to experience the respect our actions and work product merits, it is imperative we band together as an industry, create consensus around an overarching professional goal, and develop and become fluent in a shared, strategic vocabulary, which we’ll use to create a universal understanding of the exponential value we deliver every time we deploy our talents. Simply put: we need a plan.\r\n\r\nMy goal is for our industry to take flight and soar to new heights. I’m dedicating a sizable portion of my time to assisting the transformation and creating a long overdue change to incorrect, but long standing, <a href=\"https://strategic.events/party-planner-event-strategist/\">assumptions</a> about what planners do for a living. Because, if someone tells me one more time that, “I’m so lucky I get to travel for a living,” I can’t be responsible for my reaction. (Good news; a future column provides multiple solutions on combating that challenge without violence or yelling.)\r\n\r\n“The Strategic Life” series has been designed in conjunction with Midwest Meetings® to hand you the tools necessary to define, defend, and demonstrate your positions’ value, the vocabulary needed to eloquently articulate your points, and credible data to back up your statements. It will also spotlight those who are already speaking up and taking the industry to new heights. By sharing their insightful thinking and strategies you’ll be able to implement them in your own programs.\r\n\r\nIf you want to get involved start focusing your energy inward. You can start by sharing this column with every industry professional you know and commit to becoming part of the <a href=\"https://strategic.events/time-event-industry-plan-future/\">solution</a>. Introduce me to people who should be featured so they can tell their story. Share this article via social media and start thinking about how much there is to gain and how uniquely equipped we are to create a plan to achieve our goal. It’s exciting.\r\n\r\nI admittedly used to admire my friend the tailor’s clothes and my hairstylist’s great looks. By committing to put my talents to use in my own career and serve as my own billboard I can now afford to hire them both with a lot more frequency. A little-targeted effort can yield fantastic results. And few things look as great on a person as success.\r\n\r\nThe time to achieve a new level of success and a professional image that is tailor-made to the value we bring is long overdue. Continue the conversation and add your voice. Find me at: <a href=\"mailto:Christy.Lamagna@Strategic.Events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Christy.Lamagna@Strategic.Events</a>, <a href=\"http://www.MidwestMeetings.com/Christylamagna\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.MidwestMeetings.com/Christylamagna</a>, and <a href=\"https://twitter.com/SMEChristy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@SMEChristy</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<em>Tags: The Strategic Life, Strategic Events, Strategic Planners, Planner Value, Strategic Life, Christy Lamagna, Event Planning, Success, Corporate Events, Corporate Meetings, Midwest Meetings</em>\r\n\r\n[mk_mini_callout]<a href=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Midwest-Meetings-logo-swoosh.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-1348 size-full\" title=\"http://www.midwestmeetings.com/\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Midwest-Meetings-logo-swoosh.jpg\" alt=\"http://www.midwestmeetings.com/\" width=\"170\" height=\"58\" /></a>[/mk_mini_callout]','The Strategic Life - Insightful Thinking and Asserting Planner Value','','inherit','closed','closed','','4234-revision-v1','','','2018-02-06 23:01:45','2018-02-06 23:01:45','',4234,'https://strategic.events/4234-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(10130,3,'2018-02-07 15:39:50','2018-02-07 15:39:50','','Strategic Planning Movement - The Path to a Brighter Future','','inherit','open','closed','','strategic-planning-movement-cover-image','','','2018-02-10 01:48:47','2018-02-10 01:48:47','',0,'https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/strategic-planning-movement-cover-image.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(10131,3,'2018-02-07 15:40:09','2018-02-07 15:40:09','<!-- OP_SEARCH_GENERATED --><div style=\'background-image:url(https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/comfortable-1.png);background-repeat:no-repeat;background-size:cover;background-attachment:fixed;background-position:50% 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class=\"element-settings\" href=\"#settings\">Edit Element</a><a class=\"element-clone\" href=\"#clone-element\">Clone Element</a><a class=\"element-advanced\" href=\"#op-le-advanced\">Advanced Element Options</a><a class=\"element-move\" href=\"#move\">Move</a><a class=\"element-delete\" href=\"#delete\">Remove Element</a></div>\n                <div class=\"op-hidden op-waiting\">\n                    <img class=\"op-bsw-waiting op-show-waiting\" alt=\"\" src=\"images/wpspin_light.gif\" />\n                </div><div class=\"element\"> <h2 style=\'font-size:40px;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#000080;text-align:center;\'>Our Mission</h2> </div><div class=\"op-hidden\"><textarea class=\"op-le-shortcode\" name=\"shortcode[]\">[headline style=&quot;1&quot; font_size=&quot;40&quot; font_style=&quot;normal&quot; font_color=&quot;%23000080&quot; font_shadow=&quot;none&quot; align=&quot;center&quot; headline_tag=&quot;h2&quot;]Our Mission[/headline]</textarea></div></div><div class=\"element-container cf\" data-style=\"\" id=\"le_body_row_2_col_1_el_4\"><div class=\"op-element-links\"><a class=\"element-settings\" href=\"#settings\">Edit Element</a><a class=\"element-clone\" href=\"#clone-element\">Clone Element</a><a class=\"element-advanced\" href=\"#op-le-advanced\">Advanced Element Options</a><a class=\"element-move\" href=\"#move\">Move</a><a class=\"element-delete\" href=\"#delete\">Remove Element</a></div>\n                <div class=\"op-hidden op-waiting\">\n                    <img class=\"op-bsw-waiting op-show-waiting\" alt=\"\" src=\"images/wpspin_light.gif\" />\n                </div><div class=\"element\"> [text_block style=\"style_1.png\" align=\"left\"]<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #1d1848;\">The Strategic Planning Movement\'s goal is to help the event industry and its dedicated professionals to evolve into a more sophisticated form of planner; specifically, strategic planners. </span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #1d1848;\">Without this change, we will continue to combat rampant misconceptions around what we do, why events are held and the skills we bring to the table. By banding together and becoming strategic in our professional vision, brand and goals, we will set the stage to change the way we are perceived, meetings are held and the role we play in their creation.</span></p>[/text_block] </div><div class=\"op-hidden\"><textarea class=\"op-le-shortcode\" name=\"shortcode[]\">[text_block style=&quot;style_1.png&quot; align=&quot;left&quot;]&lt;p style=&quot;text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;color: #1d1848;&quot;&gt;The Strategic Planning Movement&#039;s goal is to help the event industry and its dedicated professionals to evolve into a more sophisticated form of planner; specifically, strategic planners. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;\n&lt;p style=&quot;text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;color: #1d1848;&quot;&gt;Without this change, we will continue to combat rampant misconceptions around what we do, why events are held and the skills we bring to the table. By banding together and becoming strategic in our professional vision, brand and goals, we will set the stage to change the way we are perceived, meetings are held and the role we play in their creation.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;[/text_block]</textarea></div></div><div class=\"element-container sort-disabled\"></div>\n                            <div class=\"add-element-container\"><a href=\"#one-half\" class=\"split-column\"></a><a href=\"#add_element\" class=\"add-new-element\"><span>Add Element</span></a>\n                            </div></div><div class=\"one-half column cols\" id=\"le_body_row_2_col_2\"><div class=\"element-container cf\" data-style=\"\" id=\"le_body_row_2_col_2_el_1\"><div class=\"op-element-links\"><a class=\"element-settings\" href=\"#settings\">Edit Element</a><a class=\"element-clone\" href=\"#clone-element\">Clone Element</a><a class=\"element-advanced\" href=\"#op-le-advanced\">Advanced Element Options</a><a class=\"element-move\" href=\"#move\">Move</a><a class=\"element-delete\" href=\"#delete\">Remove Element</a></div>\n                <div class=\"op-hidden op-waiting\">\n                    <img class=\"op-bsw-waiting op-show-waiting\" alt=\"\" src=\"images/wpspin_light.gif\" />\n                </div><div class=\"element\"> <h2 style=\'font-size:16px;color:#000080;text-align:center;margin-bottom:20px;\'><h2><span style=\"color: #000080;\">Sign up now to help drive the Strategic Planning Movement</span></h2></h2> </div><div class=\"op-hidden\"><textarea class=\"op-le-shortcode\" name=\"shortcode[]\">[headline style=&quot;1&quot; font_size=&quot;16&quot; font_color=&quot;%23000080&quot; align=&quot;center&quot; bottom_margin=&quot;20&quot;]&lt;h2&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;color: #000080;&quot;&gt;Sign up now to help drive the Strategic Planning Movement&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;[/headline]</textarea></div></div><div class=\"element-container cf\" data-style=\"\" id=\"le_body_row_2_col_2_el_2\"><div class=\"op-element-links\"><a class=\"element-settings\" href=\"#settings\">Edit Element</a><a class=\"element-clone\" href=\"#clone-element\">Clone Element</a><a class=\"element-advanced\" href=\"#op-le-advanced\">Advanced Element Options</a><a class=\"element-move\" href=\"#move\">Move</a><a class=\"element-delete\" href=\"#delete\">Remove Element</a></div>\n                <div class=\"op-hidden op-waiting\">\n                    <img class=\"op-bsw-waiting op-show-waiting\" alt=\"\" src=\"images/wpspin_light.gif\" />\n                </div><div class=\"element\"> \n<div id=\"5a65fd2c43228\" class=\"optin-box optin-box-24\" style=\" margin-top: 5px;margin-right: auto;margin-left: auto;\">\n    <form action=\"https://strategic.events/process-optin-form/\" method=\"post\" class=\"cf op-optin-validation\"><div style=\"display:none\"><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"provider\" value=\"mailchimp\" /><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"redirect_url\" value=\"https://strategic.events/success-strategic-meetings-events/\" /><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"list\" value=\"c19bb892bd\" /><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"double_optin\" value=\"N\" /><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"welcome_email\" value=\"N\" /></div><input type=\"email\" name=\"email\" placeholder=\"Enter your email address\" value=\"\" /><input type=\"text\" name=\"MERGE1\" placeholder=\"Enter your first name\" value=\"\" /><div class=\"text-box\"><input type=\"text\" name=\"MERGE2\" placeholder=\"Enter your last name\" value=\"\" /></div><div class=\"text-box\"><input type=\"text\" name=\"MERGE3\" placeholder=\"What is your biggest obstacle in planning?\" value=\"\" /></div><div style=\"text-align:center\"><style type=\"text/css\">#btn_1_422d39a8d05d97321043f0fb826a0626 .text {font-size:32px;font-family:\"Myriad Pro\", Myriad, 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class=\"hover\"></span><span class=\"active\"></span></button></div>    <input type=\"hidden\" id=\"op_optin_nonce\" name=\"op_optin_nonce\" value=\"30e6b1fd6b\" /><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"_wp_http_referer\" value=\"/wp-admin/admin-ajax.php\" /></form>\n    </div>\n </div><div class=\"op-hidden\"><textarea class=\"op-le-shortcode\" name=\"shortcode[]\">[optin_box style=&quot;24&quot; margin_top=&quot;5&quot; alignment=&quot;center&quot; email_field=&quot;email&quot; email_default=&quot;Enter your email address&quot; email_order=&quot;0&quot; integration_type=&quot;mailchimp&quot; thank_you_page=&quot;https://strategic.events/success-strategic-meetings-events/&quot; list=&quot;c19bb892bd&quot; name_field=&quot;MERGE1&quot; name_default=&quot;Enter your first name&quot; name_order=&quot;1&quot; name_required=&quot;N&quot; extra_field_1_name=&quot;MERGE2&quot; extra_field_1_order=&quot;2&quot; extra_field_1_required=&quot;Y&quot; extra_field_1_hidden=&quot;N&quot; extra_field_1_title=&quot;Enter your last name&quot; extra_field_2_name=&quot;MERGE3&quot; extra_field_2_order=&quot;3&quot; extra_field_2_required=&quot;N&quot; extra_field_2_hidden=&quot;N&quot; extra_field_2_title=&quot;What is your biggest obstacle in planning?&quot; opm_packages=&quot;&quot;][optin_box_field name=&quot;headline&quot;][/optin_box_field][optin_box_field name=&quot;paragraph&quot;]LsKK3poqbMK6Z2jClsKK7IuWwqZ61ajCnsecwrXqrq3Cp2LCpiscwop4HsKWK0PConfCnMK96Ke6dyfConlacumuunfCp2rYrHLCicKmwqHDmg==[/optin_box_field][optin_box_field name=&quot;privacy&quot;][/optin_box_field][optin_box_field name=&quot;top_color&quot;]undefined[/optin_box_field][optin_box_button type=&quot;1&quot; text=&quot;Get Strategic&quot; text_size=&quot;32&quot; text_font=&quot;Myriad Pro;default&quot; text_bold=&quot;Y&quot; text_letter_spacing=&quot;0&quot; text_shadow_panel=&quot;Y&quot; text_shadow_vertical=&quot;2&quot; text_shadow_horizontal=&quot;0&quot; text_shadow_color=&quot;#000000&quot; text_shadow_blur=&quot;0&quot; styling_width=&quot;40&quot; styling_height=&quot;30&quot; styling_border_color=&quot;#132971&quot; styling_border_size=&quot;1&quot; styling_border_radius=&quot;6&quot; styling_border_opacity=&quot;100&quot; styling_gradient_start_color=&quot;#132971&quot; drop_shadow_panel=&quot;N&quot; inset_shadow_panel=&quot;N&quot; location=&quot;optin_box_style_24&quot; button_below=&quot;Y&quot;]Get Strategic[/optin_box_button] [/optin_box]</textarea></div></div><div class=\"element-container cf\" data-style=\"\" id=\"le_body_row_2_col_2_el_3\"><div class=\"op-element-links\"><a class=\"element-settings\" href=\"#settings\">Edit Element</a><a class=\"element-clone\" href=\"#clone-element\">Clone Element</a><a class=\"element-advanced\" href=\"#op-le-advanced\">Advanced Element Options</a><a class=\"element-move\" href=\"#move\">Move</a><a class=\"element-delete\" href=\"#delete\">Remove Element</a></div>\n                <div class=\"op-hidden op-waiting\">\n                    <img class=\"op-bsw-waiting op-show-waiting\" alt=\"\" src=\"images/wpspin_light.gif\" />\n                </div><div class=\"element\"> <div style=\"height:20px\"> -- SPACER -- </div> </div><div class=\"op-hidden\"><textarea class=\"op-le-shortcode\" name=\"shortcode[]\">[vertical_spacing height=&quot;20&quot;]</textarea></div></div><div class=\"element-container cf\" data-style=\"\" id=\"le_body_row_2_col_2_el_4\"><div class=\"op-element-links\"><a class=\"element-settings\" href=\"#settings\">Edit Element</a><a class=\"element-clone\" href=\"#clone-element\">Clone Element</a><a class=\"element-advanced\" href=\"#op-le-advanced\">Advanced Element Options</a><a class=\"element-move\" href=\"#move\">Move</a><a class=\"element-delete\" href=\"#delete\">Remove Element</a></div>\n                <div class=\"op-hidden op-waiting\">\n                    <img class=\"op-bsw-waiting op-show-waiting\" alt=\"\" src=\"images/wpspin_light.gif\" />\n                </div><div class=\"element\"> <ul class=\"bullet-list size-16\"  style=\"width:400px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;\"><li style=\'background-image:url(\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/sme-Symbol-3-150x150.png\");background-repeat:no-repeat;background-size:16px 16px;\'>Receive free planning tools, guides, and resources </li><li style=\'background-image:url(\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/sme-Symbol-3-150x150.png\");background-repeat:no-repeat;background-size:16px 16px;\'>Stay updated on latest strategic planning insights</li><li style=\'background-image:url(\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/sme-Symbol-3-150x150.png\");background-repeat:no-repeat;background-size:16px 16px;\'>Learn about upcoming webinars and events</li><li style=\'background-image:url(\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/sme-Symbol-3-150x150.png\");background-repeat:no-repeat;background-size:16px 16px;\'>Contribute your voice, ideas, and expertise</li><li style=\'background-image:url(\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/sme-Symbol-3-150x150.png\");background-repeat:no-repeat;background-size:16px 16px;\'>Elevate your career and the event profession</li></ul> </div><div class=\"op-hidden\"><textarea class=\"op-le-shortcode\" name=\"shortcode[]\">[bullet_block upload_icon=&quot;https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/sme-Symbol-3-150x150.png&quot; style=&quot;size-16&quot; small_icon=&quot;1.png&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; alignment=&quot;center&quot;]&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Receive free planning tools, guides, and resources &lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Stay updated on latest strategic planning insights&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Learn about upcoming webinars and events&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Contribute your voice, ideas, and expertise&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Elevate your career and the event profession&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;[/bullet_block]</textarea></div></div><div class=\"element-container sort-disabled\"></div>\n                            <div class=\"add-element-container\"><a href=\"#one-half\" class=\"split-column\"></a><a href=\"#add_element\" class=\"add-new-element\"><span>Add Element</span></a>\n                            </div></div></div></div><div style=\'background-image:url(https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/comfortable-1.png);background-repeat:no-repeat;background-size:cover;background-attachment:fixed;background-position:50% 0;padding-bottom:20px;border-top-width:px;border-top-style:solid;border-top-color:;border-bottom-width:px;border-bottom-style:solid;border-bottom-color:;\'  class=\"row one-column cf ui-sortable section  bg-parallax-5a297e5f1754d  bg-parallax-5a29b0e92eb9c  bg-parallax-5a2ea743d6447  bg-parallax-5a2ee9ddee7c2  bg-parallax-5a317f06e541f  bg-parallax-5a354d6b19ff7  bg-parallax-5a4d4f2190677  bg-parallax-5a4d57fe15673  bg-parallax-5a4d623dbf5f5  bg-parallax-5a4e41eddd8ef  bg-parallax-5a4e44bab1007  bg-parallax-5a4fbdabc49ec  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class=\"copy-row\"></a>\n                            <a title=\"Edit Row Options\" href=\"#options\" class=\"edit-row\" id=\"row_options\"></a>\n                            <a title=\"Clone Row\" href=\"#clone-row\" class=\"clone-row\"></a>\n                            <a href=\"#add-new-row\" class=\"add-new-row\"><span>Add New Row</span></a>\n                            <a title=\"Move Row\" href=\"#move\" class=\"move-row\"></a>\n                            <a title=\"Paste Row\" href=\"#paste-row\" class=\"paste-row\"></a>\n                            <a title=\"Delete Row\" href=\"#delete-row\" class=\"delete-row\"></a>\n                        </div>\n                    </div><div class=\"one-column column cols\" id=\"le_body_row_3_col_1\"><div class=\"element-container cf\" data-style=\"\" id=\"le_body_row_3_col_1_el_1\"><div class=\"op-element-links\"><a class=\"element-settings\" href=\"#settings\">Edit Element</a><a class=\"element-clone\" href=\"#clone-element\">Clone Element</a><a class=\"element-advanced\" href=\"#op-le-advanced\">Advanced Element Options</a><a class=\"element-move\" href=\"#move\">Move</a><a class=\"element-delete\" href=\"#delete\">Remove Element</a></div>\n                <div class=\"op-hidden op-waiting\">\n                    <img class=\"op-bsw-waiting op-show-waiting\" alt=\"\" src=\"images/wpspin_light.gif\" />\n                </div><div class=\"element\"> <div style=\"height:750px\"> -- SPACER -- </div> </div><div class=\"op-hidden\"><textarea class=\"op-le-shortcode\" name=\"shortcode[]\">[vertical_spacing height=&quot;750&quot;]</textarea></div></div><div class=\"element-container sort-disabled\"></div>\n                            <div class=\"add-element-container\"><a href=\"#add_element\" class=\"add-new-element\"><span>Add Element</span></a>\n                            </div></div></div></div><div style=\'border-top-width:px;border-top-style:solid;border-top-color:;border-bottom-width:px;border-bottom-style:solid;border-bottom-color:;\'  class=\"row one-column cf ui-sortable   \" id=\"le_body_row_4\" data-style=\"eyJlbGVtZW50SWQiOiJsZV9ib2R5X3Jvd180IiwiYm9yZGVyVG9wV2lkdGgiOiIiLCJib3JkZXJUb3BDb2xvciI6IiIsImJvcmRlckJvdHRvbVdpZHRoIjoiIiwiYm9yZGVyQm90dG9tQ29sb3IiOiIiLCJzZWN0aW9uU2VwYXJhdG9yVHlwZSI6Im5vbmUiLCJzZWN0aW9uU2VwYXJhdG9yU3R5bGUiOiIiLCJleHRyYXMiOnsiYW5pbWF0aW9uRWZmZWN0IjoiIiwiYW5pbWF0aW9uRGVsYXkiOiIifSwicm93U2Nyb2xsRml4ZWRQb3NpdGlvbiI6Im5vbmUiLCJyb3dTY3JvbGxGaXhlZE1vYmlsZSI6ZmFsc2UsImFkZG9uIjp7fX0=\"><div class=\"fixed-width\"><div class=\"op-row-links\">\n                        <div class=\"op-row-links-content\">\n                            <a title=\"Copy Row\" href=\"#copy-row\" class=\"copy-row\"></a>\n                            <a title=\"Edit Row Options\" href=\"#options\" class=\"edit-row\" id=\"row_options\"></a>\n                            <a title=\"Clone Row\" href=\"#clone-row\" class=\"clone-row\"></a>\n                            <a href=\"#add-new-row\" class=\"add-new-row\"><span>Add New Row</span></a>\n                            <a title=\"Move Row\" href=\"#move\" class=\"move-row\"></a>\n                            <a title=\"Paste Row\" href=\"#paste-row\" class=\"paste-row\"></a>\n                            <a title=\"Delete Row\" href=\"#delete-row\" class=\"delete-row\"></a>\n                        </div>\n                    </div><div class=\"one-column column cols\" id=\"le_body_row_4_col_1\"><div class=\"element-container cf\" data-style=\"e30=\" id=\"le_body_row_4_col_1_el_1\"><div class=\"op-element-links\"><a class=\"element-settings\" href=\"#settings\">Edit Element</a><a class=\"element-clone\" href=\"#clone-element\">Clone Element</a><a class=\"element-advanced\" href=\"#op-le-advanced\">Advanced Element Options</a><a class=\"element-move\" href=\"#move\">Move</a><a class=\"element-delete\" href=\"#delete\">Remove Element</a></div>\n                <div class=\"op-hidden op-waiting\">\n                    <img class=\"op-bsw-waiting op-show-waiting\" alt=\"\" src=\"images/wpspin_light.gif\" />\n                </div><div class=\"element\">\n                        <table class=\"headline-style-16\" style=\'font-size:50px;font-family:\"Myriad Pro\", Myriad, sans-serif;font-weight:bold;text-align:center;margin-bottom:20px;\'>\n                            <tr>\n                                <td class=\"stroke\">\n                                    <div></div>\n                                </td>\n                                <td class=\"headline\">\n                                    <h2><h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #000080;\"> It’s time for the event industry to<br />\n#GetStrategic<br />\n</span></h3><h2>\n                                </td>\n                                <td class=\"stroke\">\n                                    <div></div>\n                                </td>\n                            </tr>\n                        </table>\n                    </div><div class=\"op-hidden\"><textarea class=\"op-le-shortcode\" name=\"shortcode[]\">[headline style=&quot;17&quot; font_size=&quot;50&quot; font_font=&quot;Myriad%20Pro&quot; font_style=&quot;bold&quot; align=&quot;center&quot; headline_tag=&quot;h3&quot; bottom_margin=&quot;20&quot;]&lt;h3 style=&quot;text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;color: #000080;&quot;&gt; It’s time for the event industry to\n#GetStrategic\n&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;[/headline]</textarea></div></div><div class=\"element-container cf\" data-style=\"\" id=\"le_body_row_4_col_1_el_2\"><div class=\"op-element-links\"><a class=\"element-settings\" href=\"#settings\">Edit Element</a><a class=\"element-clone\" href=\"#clone-element\">Clone Element</a><a class=\"element-advanced\" href=\"#op-le-advanced\">Advanced Element Options</a><a class=\"element-move\" href=\"#move\">Move</a><a class=\"element-delete\" href=\"#delete\">Remove Element</a></div>\n                <div class=\"op-hidden op-waiting\">\n                    <img class=\"op-bsw-waiting op-show-waiting\" alt=\"\" src=\"images/wpspin_light.gif\" />\n                </div><div class=\"element\"> <ul class=\"feature-block feature-block-style-2 feature-block-three-col cf\">\n                    <li><a class=\"feature-block-link\" href=\"https://strategic.events/key-strategic-poe/\" style=\'font-size:18px;font-family:Georgia, serif;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#1d1848;\'><div>\n                                <span class=\"feature-block-2-img-container\"><img class=\"feature-block-2\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/document-edit-256.png\"  /></span><h2 style=\'font-size:31px;font-family:Georgia, serif;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#1d1848;letter-spacing:1px;\'>Free Resource: The Strategic POE</h2><p style=\'font-size:18px;font-family:Georgia, serif;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#1d1848;\'>Whether you are just starting to develop your own POE style, or are looking for new tips and tricks, this sample should add some useful elements to the forms you create.</p>\n\n                            </div></a></li>\n                 \n                    <li><a class=\"feature-block-link\" href=\"https://strategic.events/strategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management/strategic-event-planning-resources/\" style=\'font-size:18px;font-family:Georgia, serif;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#1d1848;\'><div>\n                                <span class=\"feature-block-2-img-container\"><img class=\"feature-block-2\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/sme-Symbol-4-300x300.png\"  /></span><h2 style=\'font-size:31px;font-family:Georgia, serif;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#1d1848;letter-spacing:1px;\'>Strategic Planning Resources</h2><p style=\'font-size:18px;font-family:Georgia, serif;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#1d1848;\'>View our strategic planning resources page to access articles, videos, podcasts, and more to learn how to become an Event Strategist.</p>\n\n                            </div></a></li>\n                 \n                    <li><a class=\"feature-block-link\" href=\"https://strategic.events/sme-social-media-connect/\" style=\'font-size:18px;font-family:Georgia, serif;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#1d1848;\'><div>\n                                <span class=\"feature-block-2-img-container\"><img class=\"feature-block-2\" src=\"https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/people-256.png\"  /></span><h2 style=\'font-size:31px;font-family:Georgia, serif;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#1d1848;letter-spacing:1px;\'>Join the Conversation</h2><p style=\'font-size:18px;font-family:Georgia, serif;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#1d1848;\'>Connect with us on social media for content that is both relevant and useful and for updates on the movement. Tag us and join the conversation using #GetStrategic!</p>\n\n                            </div></a></li>\n                 </ul> </div><div class=\"op-hidden\"><textarea class=\"op-le-shortcode\" name=\"shortcode[]\">[feature_block style=&quot;icon&quot;  overall_style=&quot;image&quot; columns=&quot;3&quot; icon_style=&quot;2&quot; font_size=&quot;31&quot; font_font=&quot;Georgia&quot; font_style=&quot;normal&quot; font_color=&quot;#1d1848&quot; font_spacing=&quot;1&quot; font_shadow=&quot;none&quot; content_font_size=&quot;18&quot; content_font_font=&quot;Georgia&quot; content_font_style=&quot;normal&quot; content_font_color=&quot;#1d1848&quot; content_font_shadow=&quot;none&quot;][feature title=&quot;Free%20Resource%3A%20The%20Strategic%20POE&quot; icon=&quot;359.png&quot; upload_icon=&quot;https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/document-edit-256.png&quot; bg_color=&quot;&quot; href=&quot;https%3A%2F%2Fstrategic.events%2Fkey-strategic-poe%2F&quot;]&lt;h4 style=&quot;text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;color: #1d1848;&quot;&gt;Whether you are just starting to develop your own POE style, or are looking for new tips and tricks, this sample should add some useful elements to the forms you create.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h4&gt;[/feature] [feature title=&quot;Strategic%20Planning%20Resources&quot; icon=&quot;398.png&quot; upload_icon=&quot;https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/sme-Symbol-4-300x300.png&quot; bg_color=&quot;&quot; href=&quot;https%3A%2F%2Fstrategic.events%2Fstrategic-meetings-events-global-corporate-event-management%2Fstrategic-event-planning-resources%2F&quot;]&lt;h4&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;color: #1d1848;&quot;&gt;View our strategic planning resources page to access articles, videos, podcasts, and more to learn how to become an Event Strategist.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h4&gt;[/feature] [feature title=&quot;Join%20the%20Conversation&quot; icon=&quot;440.png&quot; upload_icon=&quot;https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/people-256.png&quot; bg_color=&quot;&quot; href=&quot;https%3A%2F%2Fstrategic.events%2Fsme-social-media-connect%2F&quot;]&lt;h4&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;color: #1d1848;&quot;&gt;Connect with us on social media for content that is both relevant and useful and for updates on the movement. Tag us and join the conversation using #GetStrategic!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h4&gt;[/feature] [/feature_block]</textarea></div></div><div class=\"element-container cf\" data-style=\"\" id=\"le_body_row_4_col_1_el_3\"><div class=\"op-element-links\"><a class=\"element-settings\" href=\"#settings\">Edit Element</a><a class=\"element-clone\" href=\"#clone-element\">Clone Element</a><a class=\"element-advanced\" href=\"#op-le-advanced\">Advanced Element Options</a><a class=\"element-move\" href=\"#move\">Move</a><a class=\"element-delete\" href=\"#delete\">Remove Element</a></div>\n                <div class=\"op-hidden op-waiting\">\n                    <img class=\"op-bsw-waiting op-show-waiting\" alt=\"\" src=\"images/wpspin_light.gif\" />\n                </div><div class=\"element\"> <div style=\"height:50px\"> -- SPACER -- </div> </div><div class=\"op-hidden\"><textarea class=\"op-le-shortcode\" name=\"shortcode[]\">[vertical_spacing height=&quot;50&quot;]</textarea></div></div><div class=\"element-container sort-disabled\"></div>\n                            <div class=\"add-element-container\"><a href=\"#add_element\" class=\"add-new-element\"><span>Add Element</span></a>\n                            </div></div></div></div><div style=\'background-image:url(https://strategic.events/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/new.png);background-repeat:no-repeat;background-size:cover;background-attachment:;border-top-width:px;border-top-style:solid;border-top-color:;border-bottom-width:px;border-bottom-style:solid;border-bottom-color:;\'  class=\"row one-column cf ui-sortable   \" id=\"le_body_row_5\" data-style=\"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\"><div style=\'opacity:0.0;background:;\'  class=\"op-row-image-color-overlay\"></div><div class=\"fixed-width\"><div class=\"op-row-links\">\n                        <div class=\"op-row-links-content\">\n                            <a title=\"Copy Row\" href=\"#copy-row\" class=\"copy-row\"></a>\n                            <a title=\"Edit Row Options\" href=\"#options\" class=\"edit-row\" id=\"row_options\"></a>\n                            <a title=\"Clone Row\" href=\"#clone-row\" class=\"clone-row\"></a>\n                            <a href=\"#add-new-row\" class=\"add-new-row\"><span>Add New Row</span></a>\n                            <a title=\"Move Row\" href=\"#move\" class=\"move-row\"></a>\n                            <a title=\"Paste Row\" href=\"#paste-row\" class=\"paste-row\"></a>\n                            <a title=\"Delete Row\" href=\"#delete-row\" class=\"delete-row\"></a>\n                        </div>\n                    </div><div class=\"one-column column cols\" id=\"le_body_row_5_col_1\"><div class=\"element-container cf\" data-style=\"\" id=\"le_body_row_5_col_1_el_1\"><div class=\"op-element-links\"><a class=\"element-settings\" href=\"#settings\">Edit Element</a><a class=\"element-clone\" href=\"#clone-element\">Clone Element</a><a class=\"element-advanced\" href=\"#op-le-advanced\">Advanced Element Options</a><a class=\"element-move\" href=\"#move\">Move</a><a class=\"element-delete\" href=\"#delete\">Remove Element</a></div>\n                <div class=\"op-hidden op-waiting\">\n                    <img class=\"op-bsw-waiting op-show-waiting\" alt=\"\" src=\"images/wpspin_light.gif\" />\n                </div><div class=\"element\"> <div style=\"height:100px\"> -- SPACER -- </div> </div><div class=\"op-hidden\"><textarea class=\"op-le-shortcode\" name=\"shortcode[]\">[vertical_spacing height=&quot;100&quot;]</textarea></div></div><div class=\"element-container sort-disabled\"></div>\n                            <div class=\"add-element-container\"><a href=\"#add_element\" class=\"add-new-element\"><span>Add Element</span></a>\n                            </div></div></div></div>','Strategic Planning Movement','','inherit','closed','closed','','8435-revision-v1','','','2018-02-07 15:40:09','2018-02-07 15:40:09','',8435,'https://strategic.events/8435-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),