Herding Cats: Keeping Rooms in the Housing Block
October 12, 2013
Tradeshow organizers are generally an easy-going group of folks. They are jovial, fun and even occasionally well-mannered. The massive exception here is when you are talking to them about things like attendance, labor rules, revenue and … I am whispering here … keeping rooms in the block. Yes, that latter topic will typically unleash a diatribe on human behavior theory and the decline of Western civilization. It’s like herding cats, they will tell you.
The good news is that attendee behavior can be influenced when it comes to keeping rooms in the block. I have found that there are two key elements to getting the attention of an attendee: Money and convenience.
Four broad ideas to consider:
• Offer special benefits for staying within the block, such as restaurant coupons, a free spa visit, airport shuttle pass, etc. (can all be provided by the hotel)
• Take steps to restrict shuttle bus access to those within the block by issuing special wrist bands or badges.
• Consider innovative offers such as three nights at $149 per night vs. one night at $199. Also, offer early bird room rates, just as you offer early bird registration rates.
• Combine Registration and Housing. Package the hotel room with event registration. For example, the registration fee is normally $400 but those staying in the block pay only $250.
Along these lines, doing the right thing and risk avoidance are also factors in human behavior. I am a fan of communicating the benefits of booking in the block to attendees and exhibitors. It’s important to know that by doing so, they are supporting the event and their industry.
Additionally, it is good to also inform travelers of the risks of booking out of the block, particularly with sites that might not offer changes or refunds and, that in the event a hotel is oversold they will likely be the first to get walked.
No rocket science here, just good business that’s good for our business.
Happy herding!
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
Add new comment