Experts & Opinions

Jul 12, 2015
Giving away handouts at trade shows is by no means a new concept. However, it is common to overlook the importance of giveaways and to undermine their potential for increasing customer retention. There should be a strategy behind your trade show literature handouts, yet all too often companies think as long as they have something to distribute, they are in the clear. If the process is well thought out in advance, the overall effectiveness of your efforts can be increased tremendously. So, where do you start? Here are five considerations to make sure you do it the right way! What does your… more
Jul 05, 2015
Tradeshows have in the past been known for their less than stellar environmental impact, but these days we all are thinking of ways to go greener right? The disposable nature of exhibiting at tradeshows is one of the primary reasons these events have such a large environmental footprint. With some careful planning and sourcing of the right materials, you can drastically reduce the environmental impact of your tradeshow. Here are five ways to exhibit greener and reduce your environmental impact. 5 Ways to Work In Green Practices When Exhibiting at a Tradeshow 1.     Use… more
Jul 05, 2015
More than ever, employees and customers want to work for and with a company with a strong social conscience. Developing a social conscience for your company not only impacts the greater good of society but it has a positive effect on employee morale and customer loyalty. Corporate Social Responsibility: “The continuing commitment by business to contribute to economic development while improving the quality of life of the workforce and their families as well as of the community and society at large." (Source: World Business Council for Sustainable Development) Do companies have a… more
Jun 20, 2015
A robust virtual workforce and rising travel costs are making online meetings the norm rather than the exception. But as easy as they are to arrange, a virtual meeting comes with its own idiosyncrasies and can be a counterproductive sinkhole if not planned properly. Here are a few tips to make sure your time is well spent. 1.) Watch the clock: Before the meeting starts, alert people to exactly how much time they have to talk. Everyone should prepare what they need to say ahead of time, and even email the meeting members a concise agenda of the points they plan to cover. Also build in… more
Jun 20, 2015
Until teleportation becomes the norm, frequent travel is simply a fact of life for leaders in the modern business world. As companies continue to grow more reliant on foreign markets, face-to-face meetings remain essential, especially when managing a global team. Tools like Skype have helped bridge global communication gaps, but no technology can supplant in-person interactions — with your team or with your family. In the meantime, you’ll have to find ways to maintain a healthy family-travel balance, which is no simple task. The Hardships of the Road Travel inflicts a number of stresses on… more
Jun 14, 2015
Whether you are running a small business or are part of a Fortune 500 company, trade shows can be extremely beneficial to the success of your business. Through this marketing medium, small businesses will be at an equal playing field with their more established, larger competitors; and in this game, it isn’t always about who spent the most money, but rather who was more prepared. If you are looking to get the name of your business into the minds of your potential customers, then here are 5 tips that will allow you to do so effectively, without spending a fortune. 1. Stay Local Traveling… more
Jun 09, 2015
There is an important behavioral shift underway, one that has huge implications for businesses, organizations and local communities. That change? The growing preference of experience. While digital marketing continues to grow, in parallel, there is an increased desire for experiences, seen across the board but particularly with Millennials and GenZ. Researchers at Ad Age identified this trend in a recent report, noting that overall promotion, events and experiential agency revenue is growing at a greater rate than advertising, PR, and media. Certainly, event… more
Jun 07, 2015
We all have considered having meeting and events in art and museum galleries, both of which provide a unique atmosphere and exposure to art and culture.  What has been most notable in recent years is the addition of art into the convention center.  This investment, which is rather substantial, is focused around the attendee experience of the destination while in the venue.  And there are a few convention centers that have done this remarkably well. Phoenix Convention Center:  With approximately $3 million in art installed, the Phoenix Convention Center uses art to help… more
Jun 07, 2015
Trade shows are in many ways unique to other conferences and events. The goals of attendees and exhibitors alike often revolve around lead generation, research and the sale of a product and service, while industry education and other event favorites are less a priority. Understanding the benefits of a mobile app from the unique viewpoint of a trade show helps everyone involved maximize an event’s potential.   Lead Generation Trade shows represent a prime resource for generating qualified leads from attendees who are willing to justify registration and travel costs for a chance to… more
May 31, 2015
Ever feel that reading a show service manual is like trying to find your way across the Atlantic Ocean without GPS?  Trade shows can be overwhelming to say the least. Managing a trade show display is like hosting a party that lasts several days for a thousand of your closest friends in the space of a small boat.  Although it may seem cliché, planning is the key to success.  This guide helps you decipher the secrets behind understanding and following your trade show service manual. It really is possible to successfully manage your booth setup by adhering to the rules and being… more
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.