Experts & Opinions
Dec 19, 2017
With all the detailed planning that goes into major trade shows, conferences and other large events, often overlooked is one segment of attendees that does need some special attention: individuals with disabilities.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 53 million adults in the U.S. have a disability. Their disabilities, however, don’t stop many of them from attending events. Event planners know this and are much more focused today on creating accessible events. Still, there’s more that can be done.
From the venue selection and preparation to the use of certain… more
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Dec 15, 2017
There are several benefits associated with investing your time and energy in expanding the marketability of your product via a trade show. Trade fairs are powerful marketing systems that can bring new customers to your roster while maintaining your current relationships with your brand loyalists. It’s one of the only times where there will be a concentrated presence of international buyers, sellers and investors in one place in such a short period of time.
In addition, trade shows provide an insight of the market and industry, introduce you to the latest innovations and trends of your… more
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Dec 13, 2017
If you are anything like me, you barely carry cash anymore. Credit and debit cards have become the main method of payment these days so cash isn’t necessary. Other advances in technology, such as PayPal and Apple Pay, have proven this to be true, too.
With cashless payments gaining momentum and technology being developed to cater to this trend, it’s time that the event industry catch-up. Attendees already have enough to remember and worry about at an event, so having a few bucks on them to purchase lunch is probably the last thing they are thinking about.
Make It Easier for Attendees
Our… more
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Dec 11, 2017
Reducing landfill waste is a major challenge for any trade show, and very often event organizers and venues face the difficult question of where to even start. In our experience, one of the most impactful strategies to address is directing a greater focus towards donation and reuse within the exhibit hall itself.
For some real-world inspiration on this front, the IMEX America exhibition for incentive travel, meetings and events, held annually each October at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas, features several innovative approaches towards exhibit hall donation and reuse which have… more
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Dec 06, 2017
There is a perception by some Event Managers that the best booth staffer is always the outgoing sales person who is outspoken and fun. While sales reps can be great staffers, there are other personality types and expertise characteristics that can be just as important to round out your perfect team. Below I outline some key roles for booth staffers candidates you can use to fill those roles at your next trade show.
Engager/Crowd Gatherer
It does not matter how wonderful your message and service is if you can’t find someone to talk to about it. That is where those people my colleague called… more
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Dec 01, 2017
One of the best things about our industry is that we’re not limited by geography or cultural boundaries. Because each country has its own exhibiting style, rules and practices, it’s important to acquaint yourself and your team with the differences so you don’t go into this process blindly.
During my career, I’ve had the opportunity to manage global brand activations for many clients and I’ve developed practices that provide the best opportunity for success.
Here are my top four that you need to know if you’re exhibiting internationally:
Understand Terminology and Practices: In the U.S.,… more
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Nov 28, 2017
Have you noticed how certain styles always come back? Retro trends eventually circle around and become a hot commodity once again – from vintage board games to mid-century architecture and even acid-wash jeans (yes, really). And while retro trends may start out in consumer spaces, sooner or later they translate to the business-to-business space as well.
What does this mean for event planning? That it’s essential for event organizers to skillfully weave classic elements with modern technology as part of a comprehensive strategy to create unforgettable experiences for target audiences.
But… more
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Nov 20, 2017
When planning for your next event, it can seem arduous thinking up all of the possible scenarios and options for getting all of the necessary materials to the actual show. Which option is cheaper? Does cheaper mean less reliable? How will I know everything will be safe?
Many have asked these kinds of questions, especially when it comes to the choice of shipping directly to the show or to use an Advance Shipment Warehouse instead. Below are the top five reasons why going the route of Advance Warehouse may save you some sweat as well as cents:
Peace of Mind
Given all of the logistics it… more
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Nov 16, 2017
Being at the correct trade show is one of the most opportunity-rich environments a company can participate in to secure face-to-face time with potential customers. In addition, trade shows provide the platform to highlight new products, special services and enhanced branding. Your team is also on-point to conduct demonstrations and proclaim the benefits of your company.
At a trade show, the number of attendances can range from a few hundred to many thousand. But what if you could provide your message from the trade show to millions of people, all of which are not at the exhibition? In… more
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Nov 14, 2017
As an exhibitor, you carefully select which shows to attend, invest time and money in these events and create the ideal booth. But have you invested time into developing a strategy for these events to maximize your ROI?
Achieving a successful show experience depends on having a strong presence at the show, driving customers and prospects to your booth, and converting those leads into sales. Here are four tips to help you achieve your goal:
Develop marketing and promotional plans
Create a marketing campaign: Clearly state or illustrate your message in all communications and materials… more
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Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.
At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:
Protecting Natural Resources
MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.
Committed to Community
Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.
MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.
Fostering Diversity & Inclusion
To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.
MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.