How can the exhibitions and events industry help Los Angeles?
The IAEE celebrates a very successful and impactful expo! Expo! The IAEE Annual Meeting and Exhibition was held in Los Angeles last December. We are shocked by the tragic events and support all efforts to help the greater Los Angeles community rebuild. Please read this letter from Adam Burke, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Visitors and Convention Board.
8 tips for bridging the gap between marketing and sales
In today's dynamic business environment, the relationship between marketing and sales teams has never been more important, as successful organizations master the art of aligning these two important departments. Read on to learn eight valuable tips for creating a powerful marketing and sales alliance. Tip #1: Think in terms of partnership vs. support The traditional view of marketing as a sales enablement function is outdated. Instead, successful organizations recognize that marketing and sales form a continuum along the customer journey. Marketing builds awareness, generates interest, and develops pipeline, while sales converts and closes opportunities. This seamless handoff creates a cohesive experience for team members and customer. Tip #2: Create best collaboration practices Effective collaboration between marketing and sales requires deliberate effort and strategic planning. Success starts with establishing regular cross-functional meetings where teams can coordinate their goals and strategies. These meetings provide a platform for joint participation in the planning process and help eliminate the ego-driven territorial issues that often…
Industry speaks out about data-driven event planning
Driven by technological advances, exhibitions and events are undergoing a revolutionary change. The IAEE will delve into the direction of data-driven incident management in a January 15 webinar, From feelings to facts: The evolution of event datapresented by Annaji Sailer, CRFP, CEM, senior director of exhibitions and strategic partnerships for the Restaurant Facility Management Association, and Dr. Panos Moutafis, CEO and co-founder of Zenus, Inc. Annaji and Panos will explore the fundamental shift in event planning from gut-based decision-making to a more analytical approach. They will delve into the critical role of data in demonstrating event ROI to stakeholders, especially sponsors and exhibitors, and share practical strategies for leveraging metrics to optimize event results. This webinar will also demonstrate how forward-thinking event professionals can use data to not only measure success, but to create a comprehensive picture of team performance and its alignment with broader organizational goals. Here, Annaji and Panos preview the topics they’ll dive into during the webinar,…
CEM Spotlight Alana Beare, CEM
Alana Beare, CEM, has over 16 years of trade show management experience and 25 years of client-facing event management experience, specializing in creating impactful brand experiences in diverse industries including technology, education, government and travel. As Global Events Manager for Software AG, Alana oversees the calendar of corporate events, webinars, and sponsored conferences, while also supporting on-site marketing activities for regional conferences. Alana earned her Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication and Rhetorical Studies from Hofstra University. Here, she shares how she has benefited from earning her CEM designation. How has the CEM designation helped you in your career? Honestly, diving into the CEM course was like a great refresher and gained many new insights. Even after many years in event management, it was eye-opening to look at exhibition and event management from all angles—it helped me think more holistically about everything from strategy to detail. This definitely adds some fresh perspective to my approach! Why is it important to…
Thriving in 2025: Maximizing your IAEE membership benefits
Happy New Year! It’s that time of year when people create a slew of resolutions, goals, to-do lists, hopes and dreams – and the IAEE is no exception. Our number one priority (and it is every year really) is to provide the best possible service to our members that we can. Most importantly to us, we provide exhibition and event professionals with all the tools they need to thrive in their work and achieve their goals. With this in mind, IAEE’s leadership team wants to ensure you take full advantage of your membership benefits. Join them for a webinar on January 22nd, Unleashing the Full Potential of IAEE Membership: A Comprehensive Guide to Taking Advantage of Member Benefits in 2025as they dive into how you can apply the knowledge and strengths you gain from the IAEE’s broad range of offerings to make 2025 your best year yet! Here is an overview of the benefits they will explore: Professional development opportunities…
Cheers to our journey – IAEE
Editor's note: Originally published in the December 2024 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine. As my term as IAEE President draws to a close, I reflect on the remarkable growth our industry will experience in 2024. This year has been defined by our collective commitment to sustainability, advocacy, collaboration, technology innovation, and workforce development—pillars that will continue to shape our future. Sustainability has become at the forefront of our industry’s priorities. I see initiatives across the industry that reflect our determination to make positive changes in this area, such as the IAEE’s recently released How to direct a sustainable exhibition. This development demonstrates how implementing sustainable practices is not just about environmental stewardship but a strategic advantage that drives innovation, attracts young professionals and improves operational efficiency. This year’s advocacy efforts have been impactful, highlighted by ECA’s Legislative Action Day, which brought industry leaders face-to-face with U.S. policymakers. We continue to make significant progress on key issues, from pushing for…
CEM Spotlight Abby Nero, CEM
Abby Nero, CEM, is the Regional Vice President of Map Your Show, where she focuses on building strategic partnerships and maximizing revenue from business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) events. She is dedicated to enhancing the event experience and working to create value for exhibitors and attendees. Abby's approach is rooted in a commitment to client success, evidenced by cultivating impactful relationships and delivering exceptional client service. Here, she shares how she has benefited from earning the CEM designation. How has the CEM designation helped you in your career? The CEM designation was very beneficial to my career because I was able to learn a lot of new things and shake off the dust of what I had done or been responsible for in previous roles before joining the vendor. Not everything I learn will become part of my day-to-day activities, but most things are likely to be integral to the personas of the clients I work with, so it’s very…
Anytra D. Lowe shares what makes the Expo happen! Expo! “Must attend”
Anytra D. Lowe serves as Freeman's executive vice president of client solutions. She has been in the industry for 28 years and has extensive experience in sales and account management. Anytra has been with Freeman for 20 years and prides herself on developing short- and long-term strategic customer service plans based on products and supporting customer growth and innovation initiatives. Here, Anytra shares why she loves serving at the IAEE Expo! Expo! Advisory Board and what she is most looking forward to about the Expo! Expo! The IAEE 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition will be held December 16-19 in Los Angeles, California. What motivates you to attend the IAEE Expo! Expo! Advisory Board, what do you hope to accomplish through your service? Attend the IAEE Expo! Expo! The Advisory Board is driven by a deep passion for the events industry and a commitment to promoting innovation and excellence. At Freeman, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of well-planned events in…
Redefining the value of modern exhibitions and events
Expo! Expo! IAEE's 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, with six unique learning tracks offered by industry leader Tim Luepke, CMM, CMP, CTS, DES, MPI Academy Dean of Meeting Professionals International. Tim will chair the meeting, Participate in the equation. As professionals upskill themselves to embrace a new era of exhibitions and events, it’s more important than ever to reassess and update established value propositions that bring people together. If an exhibit/event is not about meeting subject matter experts, peers, community members, and/or customers, then what is its purpose? If this is the primary purpose of an event, then shouldn’t it be the lens through which we design experiences that matter to attendees, stakeholders, customers, and the organization? As we seek to connect people in meaningful ways, what techniques can be applied to our campaign elements to ensure those connections are designed and executed with purpose? Tim will explore these questions and…
Put artificial intelligence into practice to improve your exhibitions and events
Expo! Expo! The IAEE 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, with six unique learning tracks delivered by thought leader Rich Vallaster, CEM, DES, director of marketing and industry relations for Personify A2Z Events. He will introduce at the meeting, From Scenario to Strategy: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to Create Event Success. Artificial intelligence is developing rapidly and has a significant impact on businesses and society. Despite this potential, the exhibitions and events industry has been slow to embrace AI due to various challenges, such as the sheer number of available AI tools, limited personnel, and the demanding nature of the industry. It’s time to move from theory to action. Rich will demonstrate best-in-class tools (many low-cost or free) tailored specifically for industry professionals to enhance their capabilities in all aspects of organizing, data analysis, contracting, meeting planning, marketing, and more. Attendees will work with sample activity data and documentation to facilitate immediate, hands-on…
Capturing attention through neuromarketing – IAEE
Expo! Expo! The IAEE 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, offering six unique learning tracks from thought leaders such as Janet Sperstad, professor emeritus at Madison College and CMP fellow. She will introduce at the conference, How to Get Attention: Neuromarketing and Exhibitions. In this session, Janet explores the intersection of neuromarketing and exhibitions. Whether it’s an exhibition/event organizer, a supplier or an exhibitor, from registration to the show floor, everyone is vying for your customers’ attention. She will teach participants how to cut through cognitive “noise” and capture attention. You'll examine the key drivers of our decisions. What's a surprising factor that affects how people make decisions? How can organizers and/or exhibitors leverage this insight? The brain makes decisions faster than you or I can blink. It divides everything into two categories, what will hurt me and what will help me. Everything we do in life is based on the brain's…
Work/life balance and health promotion
Expo! Expo! IAEE's 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, with six unique learning tracks delivered by thought leader Holly Morphew, AFC®, financial coach, author and financial impact speaker. She will chair the meeting, Reiki: Harnessing Universal Life Force Energy to Manage Stress. Holly will explore how the demands of balancing a successful career and modern life can lead to serious health symptoms, such as feeling mentally stressed, physically exhausted and emotionally reactive. She will share with participants her four-step system for mobilizing their own resources to help them feel lighter, more present, and more focused. In this session, attendees will learn how to communicate clearly and get results. How can improved communication lead to measurable results? What strategies will you delve into during the session? The first step to effective communication is self-awareness. Learn about the concepts of "online" and "offline", how to operate with openness and curiosity and unleash your creativity,…
Innovative design strategies for tomorrow’s events
Expo! Expo! IAEE's 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, offering six unique learning tracks from thought leaders Beth Surmont, FASAE, CMP Fellow, CAE, Smithbucklin Vice President of Event Strategy and Design | 360 Live media. She will introduce at the conference, Shaping the future of exhibition design. It's one thing to keep up with trends, but it's another thing to stay ahead of the curve. In this unique session, Beth will explore what's coming to redefine the exhibition and event experience. Get ready to think big, challenge the status quo, and get actionable strategies to elevate your next trade show. This dynamic meeting will consist of three parts: Foresight: Use a forward-looking approach to imagine events in the near future. Interactive Solutions Session: Rapidly ideate and collaborate around possible solutions. Share results: Not only will participants learn from each other, but all ideas will be collected and published into a white paper,…
Everything in the expo is sparkling! Expo!
Editor's note: Originally published in the November 2024 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine. Only six weeks left until the Expo! Expo! The IAEE Annual Meeting and Exhibition in Los Angeles, as featured in this issue, is an ideal venue for those eager to end the year on a high note for professional development and valuable industry connections. We're excited to be back in Hollywood after ten years and love using fun Hollywood-themed language to detail what we have. However, please be assured that we take our commitment very seriously to delivering a great event that is worthy of attendees’ time and investment. That's because of the Expo! Expo! Embodies the highest ideals of the IAEE. As I've emphasized throughout the year, workforce development places a heavy burden on executive leaders because we are tasked with applying today's resources to the best of our ability to meet tomorrow's needs. Ensuring that our organizations and the team members we rely on…
Learn to say “no” and get over feeling overwhelmed
Expo! Expo! The IAEE 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, offering 6 unique learning tracks from thought leader Yvette Simpson, Esq., MBA, founder and CEO of Yvette Simpson LLC. She will introduce at the conference, The Power of Denial: Move from FOMO to JOMO to Overcome Stress. There are so many demands on our time: work, home, family, staying connected and capturing it all on social media – it can feel impossible to find time to take care of yourself. It’s easy to believe that we can do everything. We’ve been told for years to lean in and say “yes,” but many of us are exhausted, exhausted, overwhelmed, and tired of it. It’s easy to believe that you can achieve success and happiness through your own efforts, especially for high achievers. But “yes” comes at a price, and you often pay the price in overwhelm and even burnout. Yvette will teach participants…
Meagan Keller shares why we have Expos! Expo! at the top of her to-do list
Meagan Keller, CMP, CEM, DES, is the Director of Client Services and Operations at CM Event Solutions. She is a seasoned meeting planner with over 14 years in the meetings and trade show industry, specializing in creating seamless events that engage and inspire. She has a background in hospitality and association management and currently works for a third party organization, bringing a wealth of expertise to association client events. Meagan holds CEM and CMP qualifications and is passionate about travel and enjoys exploring new destinations while keeping up with industry trends. Here, Megan shares why she loves serving at the IAEE Expo! Expo! Advisory Board and what she is most looking forward to about the Expo! Expo! The IAEE 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition will be held December 16-19 in Los Angeles, California. What motivates you to attend the IAEE Expo! Expo! Advisory Board, what do you hope to accomplish through your service? Attend the CIIE! Expo! I have been…
Exhibition reception and customer service and its persistence
Expo! Expo! The IAEE 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, with six unique learning tracks delivered by thought leaders like Bob Pacanovsky, a professional speaker and chief hospitality officer at Black Tie Experience. Bob will chair the meeting, 5 Essential Rules of Exhibition Hospitality to Build Loyalty, Engagement, and Revenue. How often is your brand talked about? When people talk about your brand, they become its storytellers. Will they become storytellers because of the customer service you provide? perhaps. But you need more. Bob explains the "5 Basic Laws of Hospitality" for organizations and how they differ from customer service. While providing customer service is necessary to attract customers, hospitality can keep them coming back, increasing loyalty, retention, and revenue. Bob also details how to create “brand ambassadors” (customers who become storytellers for your organization) through impactful hospitality. Brand ambassadors become marketers for the organization because they can’t wait to tell others…
Master the Art of Sales Conversion
Expo! Expo! The IAEE 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events with six unique learning tracks from thought leaders like Sales UpRising Founder and CEO Katie Nelson. Katie will be chairing the meeting, Get a yes: Simplify. In today's competitive market, the art of selling is not just selling, but also understanding, engaging and converting. Katie helps sales professionals of all levels improve their closing skills and increase their success rates. She provides practical techniques and insights to streamline the sales process and effectively secure customer commitment. In the video below, Katie: Guide you through specific techniques/frameworks to quickly discover your customers' core needs, especially when the customers themselves may not be explicitly aware of these needs. Shares real-life examples of challenging objections she encountered and how her approach yielded positive results. Discover closing techniques for converting leads into sales and how they work. Talk about what fuels her passion for helping others…
Use audience feedback to enhance your program content
Expo! Expo! IAEE's 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, with six unique learning tracks delivered by thought leader Florence Torres, CEM, Informa Conference Manager. She will introduce at the conference, Improve the quality of audience feedback to facilitate future content development. Florence will discuss high-tech and low-tech tools to solicit feedback from the conference audience. She will explore: Set feedback expectations. What do you really want/need to know to help make change? Explore the different options/tools you can use to gain audience insights, including the pros and cons of each. How to make it fun to help train your audience to use these tools more easily. Identify low-hanging fruit that will change future programming, formats, and other experiences at the event. Participants are encouraged to submit questions and stories during this interactive session, as learning from each other is priceless! You'll share your opinions on how to consciously evaluate your audience feedback…
Unleash your potential through the power of personal branding
Expo! Expo! IAEE's 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, with six unique learning tracks delivered by thought leaders such as trainer and speaker Leanne Calderwood, CMP, who will moderate sessions, Personal brand for non-celebrities. Personal branding is no longer just for celebrities and entrepreneurs. Everyone should have a personal brand and use it as a way to build trust with your ideal audience! Yet we often have limited beliefs about whether we deserve a brand, or whether we have the time to build one, or whether we should do so while working for a larger organization. These beliefs often limit us from taking the first step in creating our own brand. Leanne will bust these misconceptions and provide professionals ready to take their careers to the next level with the tools they need to build an effective personal brand. In the video below, Leanne talks about: Common myths about personal branding and…
Danielle Foisy talks shaping the future of Expo events!
Danielle Foisy is Director of Business Development and Industry Relations for Transportation Management Services (TMS). With a background in hospitality and destination management, she has built her career working for CVBs, non-profits and Fortune 1000 companies. As a senior tourism and hospitality professional, she moved to Washington, D.C. in 2000 to join the Tourism Canada team. During her tenure, she contributed to establishing the country as a premier conference destination for U.S. organizations. Danielle found joining TMS eight years ago an exciting opportunity to explore a new side of the live events industry. She is responsible for helping TMS grow sales, strengthen and build relationships within the meetings and events industry, and increase awareness and recognition of TMS as a global leader in event transportation and mobility solutions. Danielle understands the importance of giving back to the industry she loves and volunteers with several organizations including IAEE, PCMA and ASAE. She grew up near Montreal, lived in Vancouver and Whistler,…
Harnessing the power of data to showcase exhibitions and events
Expo! Expo! IAEE's 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, offering six unique learning tracks from industry leaders such as Kyle Jordan, CAE, CEM-AP, CMP, DES, Informs (Operations Research Institute) Conference Director Research and Management Sciences). Kyle will chair the meeting, The importance of data in demonstrating the value of exhibitions and events. A challenge that exhibition and event organizers often face is how to effectively measure the success of their events while quantifying and communicating ROI (Return on Investment), ROO (Return on Objective) and ROE (Return on Event). Kyle will outline several strategies for measuring customer (i.e. member, participant, etc.) satisfaction, including Net Promoter Score (NPS), which provides a unique perspective on brand loyalty. He will also explain the importance of evaluation data and how organizers can demonstrate and leverage the true value of their events. You'll detail various ways to measure campaign success, including ROI, ROO, and ROE. What makes these…
Harnessing the power of data to showcase exhibitions and events
Expo! Expo! IAEE's 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, offering six unique learning tracks from industry leaders such as Kyle Jordan, CAE, CEM-AP, CMP, DES, Informs (Operations Research Institute) Conference Director Research and Management Sciences). Kyle will chair the meeting, The importance of data in demonstrating the value of exhibitions and events. A challenge that exhibition and event organizers often face is how to effectively measure the success of their events while quantifying and communicating ROI (Return on Investment), ROO (Return on Objective) and ROE (Return on Event). Kyle will outline several strategies for measuring customer (i.e. member, participant, etc.) satisfaction, including Net Promoter Score (NPS), which provides a unique perspective on brand loyalty. He will also explain the importance of evaluation data and how organizers can demonstrate and leverage the true value of their events. You'll detail various ways to measure campaign success, including ROI, ROO, and ROE. What makes these…
Transform financial fear into financial freedom
Expo! Expo! IAEE's 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, with six unique learning tracks delivered by thought leader Holly Morphew, AFC®, financial coach, author and financial impact speaker. At her meeting, Financial Wellness: Take Control of Your Money, Take Control of Your StressHolly will explain why financial problems cause stress, fear and anxiety and provide solutions. The lack of education about money and finances in our society affects many people’s sense of security, reducing their productivity, connection and happiness. In this session, Holly will share her methods for eliminating money-reactive behaviors that lead to feeling out of control and overwhelmed. Participants will also be inspired to explore new possibilities that come with taking control of financial worries. Attendees will learn to proactively manage their personal finances so they feel confident, secure and powerful. What are the most common obstacles people face when trying to move from passive to active financial management? When…
Lifelong learning is the key to success
Editor's note: Originally published in the October 2024 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine. Last month, I discussed how executive leaders can strengthen their organizations by investing in the professional development of their employees. This month, I want to turn my perspective to the value of personal and lifelong learning. The benefits professionals gain by actively pursuing learning ensure our industry continues to innovate, adapt and deliver exceptional experiences for years to come. This investment in continuous learning benefits not only individual career development but also our collective progress for several reasons. Technological advances, changing consumer preferences and global trends keep our industry on its toes. Professionals who prioritize continuous learning are better able to adapt to change because they can quickly master new concepts, techniques, and methods, allowing them to adjust their strategies and remain effective in their roles. Continuous learning also exposes professionals to diverse perspectives and innovative solutions from across the industry and beyond. This expanded knowledge…
Unleashing the power of collective sales intelligence
Expo! Expo! IAEE's 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition takes a deep dive into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, offering six unique learning tracks from thought leaders like Gary Hernbroth, chief motivation officer at Training for Winners and author of Training for Winners Author of the book twist the familiar. his meeting, Perfect your sales gameis a peer-to-peer dive into the world of collaborative selling success. Gary will lead participants through addressing several aspects of sales including best practices, tips for running a sales funnel smartly, helping people buy, negotiating, successful exhibitor lead generation/sales strategies in the booth, selling sponsorships, leveraging collective Wisdom drives sales growth. , and incorporate ROI/ROE into the equation. Whether participants are trade show organizers, suppliers, or exhibitors, much of what they do has an element of “selling.” In this hands-on session, Gary will have participants roll up their sleeves, discover and share ideas for sales success! Attendees will discover the key steps to running…
Prioritize Wellness: From Your Calendar and
Expo! Expo! The IAEE 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events with six unique learning tracks from thought leaders including Natasha “Coach Coco” Benitez, an executive performance coach and burnout prevention expert at Coach with Coco. What are your health priorities at work, at home and on the go? her meeting, Mindfulness for Executives, Managers, and Employees: The Curious Calendar Gamewill approach this question with compassionate curiosity, using insights from calendars and/or photos from your phone! Coco Coach will take attendees back in time and guide them in exploring their own health decisions, helping them understand their daily choices, habits and routines. This session will identify emotional, social and workplace wellness priorities so participants can commit to positive change. This session draws on health research and engaging storytelling to provide valuable strategies for prioritizing health so that participants can choose behaviors that are consistent with the happy, healthy, and fulfilled people they want…
Strategies for Sustainable Success – IAEE
Expo! Expo! The IAEE 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, offering six unique learning tracks from thought leaders such as Rachel Boehm, NBC-HWC, PhD. Rachel Boehm Candidate and CEO, Coaching & Consulting LLC. her meeting, Maximize Performance, Minimize Burnout: How to Thrive Under Pressurewill reveal the hidden secrets of sustainable success. In the adrenaline-fueled world of events, we are the commanders of chaos—juggling leadership demands, debating logistics and battling daily burnout. What if there was a way to thrive in this whirlwind without sacrificing your sanity? Rachel's class isn't your typical self-care talk—it's a revolution. From ninja-level productivity strategies to boundary-setting magic, she's flipping the script on burnout culture and rewriting the rules of the game. Participants will learn how to take back their power, unlock their potential, and become the unstoppable force they were meant to be. Rachel shares how to say goodbye to burnout and hello to a new level…
Enhance your LinkedIn™ profile for better business results
Expo! Expo! The IAEE 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, with six unique learning tracks delivered by thought leaders such as trainer and speaker Leanne Calderwood, CMP. her meeting, LinkedIn™ Labs: Build your professional imagewill teach professionals how to create and optimize their LinkedIn™ profiles. Through live demonstrations and hands-on activities, Leanne will show attendees how to create a compelling LinkedIn™ presence that attracts leads and opportunities. Whether participants are just starting out or looking to boost their profile, this interactive session will provide the tools and knowledge needed to make a lasting impression on LinkedIn™. Watch the video below where Leanne shares these insights: Create a healthy content balance on LinkedIn™. How a storytelling framework can help create posts that resonate with your audience. LinkedIn™'s most effective content format. What drives her passion for maximizing LinkedIn™ impact and why it's so important in today's business environment. Expo! Expo! is the place…
Jeff Davis looks to the future at the Expo! Expo!
Jeff Davis has been with Emerald X since January 2022, leading the sales function for Emerald's events portfolio. Prior to this role, Jeff led Emerald's outdoor and action sports portfolio for business-to-business (B2B) and consumer events. Jeff also spent 10 years at Informa in various leadership roles including sales, marketing and digital product development. A graduate of Baylor University, Jeff held digital and broadcast media roles at the Tribune, Gannett and AH Belo earlier in his career. He and his wife, Michelle, live in Dallas and have two children. Here, Jeff shares why he loves serving at the IAEE Expo! Expo! Advisory Board and what he is most looking forward to about the Expo! Expo! The IAEE 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition will be held December 16-19 in Los Angeles, California. What motivates you to attend the IAEE Expo! Expo! Advisory Board, what do you hope to accomplish through your service? In addition to my day-to-day job responsibilities, I have…
Achieve greater success in today’s new sales environment
Expo! Expo! IAEE's 2024 Annual Meeting and Exhibition delves into the inner workings of exhibitions and events, with six unique learning tracks delivered by thought leaders such as Peak Performance Leadership Services, Inc. President Rick Denley. Adaptive Growth Strategies for a Disrupted World: A True B2B Sales Strategy for the New Buying Processexplores how the world of sales has changed dramatically in a short period of time. More than 50% of buyers have completely changed the way they buy and revolutionized their buying process. The truth is, sales professionals are falling behind. These customers are more informed, empowered and demanding than ever before. They expect personalized, seamless and omnichannel experiences from the companies they buy from. Buyers also want to be challenged by vendors who can provide them with new insights and solutions that fit their specific needs and goals. In this session, Rick will discuss how sales leaders and professionals must adapt to thrive in this new business environment…
The Art of Exhibition Venue Design
In today's competitive business environment, exhibitions and events remain an important platform for building connections, showcasing products and driving industry growth. A key factor in the success of these events is the design of the exhibition space. Here we explore innovative strategies for creating engaging and effective exhibition venue layouts. Know your audience The foundation of any successful exhibition design lies in a deep understanding of the target audience. Whether you serve industry professionals, potential clients, or consumers, customizing your floor plan to meet their specific needs is critical. Conducting regular surveys and data analysis allows organizers to understand attendee preferences and goals. Innovative design solutions High assembly costs can be a significant challenge for organizers. Significant cost savings can be achieved by exploring alternative solutions such as floor attachments and aisle signs supported by floor structures. This approach not only reduces costs but also adds a unique visual element to the event. To truly engage attendees, consider incorporating interactive…
CEM focuses on Ding Yichun, CEM, DES
Yichun Ding, CEM, DES, is a distinguished professional with ten years of experience in the meetings, events and exhibitions industry, specializing in data analysis, project management and trade show management. She has successfully managed conferences, trade shows, and events for a variety of international organizations and scientific research nonprofits in the Washington, D.C., area. Yichun holds multiple designations, including Certified Digital Event Strategist (DES), Certified Exhibition Management® (CEM) and WSET Level 3 Award in Wines and Spirits. Throughout her career, she has consistently delivered high-impact global events and projects across diverse industries. A strategic thinker with an eye for detail, Yichun is committed to excellence in all aspects of her work and proudly identifies as a woman in STEM. Yichun holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business, Economics and International Development from Iowa State University and a Master of Tourism Administration (MTA) from The George Washington University. Yichun currently serves as Optica's Exhibition Operations Coordinator. Here, she shares how…
Explore the complex world of music licensing
As an exhibition/event organizer you have a million things on your plate. From coordinating vendors to managing attendee experience, every detail matters. But there's one crucial aspect that's often overlooked: music licensing. Whether it's background music in an exhibition hall, a speaker's catwalk song, or a live performance, proper licensing is not only important, but required by law. In the IAEE's recent webinar "Navigating the Music Licensing Process," Dan Spears, Vice President of Industry Relations and Licensing at Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI), demystified the complex world of exhibition and event music licensing. By delving into the nuances of copyright law and its interrelationship with public musical performances at exhibitions and events, he provides clarity and a deeper understanding of the complexities of this legal environment. Why music licensing is important You may be wondering: "Do I really need to worry about this?" The short answer is yes. Here’s why: Legal requirements: Almost all music played in public requires a license…
The rest of the puzzle
Editor’s Note: Originally published in the September 2024 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine. As I noted last month, new technologies are transforming our industry in ways that have our undivided attention. However, executives must focus on considerations beyond the shiny new thing, such as the ongoing pursuit of top talent. Over the past few years, executives have had countless discussions about attracting young professionals to our industry and, like puzzle pieces, how they can contribute to our greater success. Clearly, we need new perspectives and innovative thinking to stay ahead in today’s fast-changing business environment. The obvious solution is that new employees are eager to share their innovative ideas and visions for the future. There’s no doubt that we’re interested in them; the question is, how do we get them interested in us? Feedback from young professionals provides us with valuable insights into how organizations can engage their interests. Not surprisingly, scheduling flexibility is a significant factor. Many value…
CEM Spotlight on Austin Connors, CEM
Austin Connors, CEM, has been in the hospitality industry for over 15 years with leadership experience in convention centers and theaters as well as fundraising, restaurant, and nonprofit management. Currently, he serves as General Manager of the Cox Business Convention Center managed by Oak View Group in Tulsa, Oklahoma. During the pandemic, Austin earned his Master of Arts in Hospitality Management from Temple University’s School of Sport, Tourism, and Hospitality Management. Austin’s passion for the meetings and events industry stems from his youth in theatre performing and producing, which he continued in college with a degree in Classical Studies, focusing on the origins of Western civilization and the “bread and circuses” of Ancient Greece and Rome. Today, he is excited about the continued evolution of the meetings industry, focusing on localized, experiential engagement in facilities. Here, Austin shares how he has benefited from gaining the CEM qualification and how he applies the tools learned to his current industry role. How…
Michelle Metter explores how consumer activity is evolving
Michelle Metter is co-founder and partner of Fast Forward Event Productions, a dynamic portfolio of business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) trade shows, conferences, festivals and digital media brands serving the wine, beer, spirits, food and hospitality industries. Michelle has 25 years of business leadership experience as an owner/entrepreneur and also has worked within and for large national media companies (Peterson/EMAP) and trade association shows (Scuba Equipment and Marketing Association). Throughout her career, Michelle has touched all aspects of strategic event production, from concept to launch, business development, sales, marketing, digital media, and the long-term development of communities and events that meet their professional needs and passions. Michelle serves on the IAEE and SISO Board of Directors, the San Diego Tourism Board, and is a member of the Women’s Exhibition Network. Michelle co-founded Fast Forward Futures, a nonprofit organization that raises funds for the advancement of hospitality professionals by awarding scholarships and grants to promote continuing education based on individual career…
Erika Welling sees the potential that new technologies can bring to us
Erika Welling, CEM, DES, has decades of experience as an innovative and highly driven marketing and operations leader in the hospitality industry. Erica has served as a resource and mentor to many people throughout her career, including providing senior operations and marketing services to an international general service contractor in the exhibition and event industry. Prior to her work in general service contracting, Erica served as the Regional and International Director for themed restaurants and attractions, and as a Director for a prominent transportation and sightseeing company in Las Vegas. Erika has served on the Las Vegas Hospitality Association (LVHA) Board of Directors for over 18 years and has served on the IAEE’s CEM Committee and Community, Engagement and Belonging Committee. She currently serves on the CEM Faculty, Chapter Leadership Committee, and is the Past President of the Southwest Chapter of IAEE (SWIAEE). Throughout her career, she has served on the boards of tourism, professional education, and philanthropic associations. Erika…
The power of reset moments
By Penny Zenker, aka The Focusologist Celebrity wedding planner David Tutera famously said, “Live with your eyes open so you can embrace the unexpected moments, because you never know when inspiration will strike.” In the final post of my blog series, it’s these “unexpected moments” that I want to talk about. In the first two blogs, I told you about the reset mindset and the reset practice. Today, I’m going to go a step further and talk about reset moments. It’s in these moments that you instinctively activate your reset practice, and the repetition of this practice builds your reset mindset. Whether it’s dealing with last-minute changes or unexpected challenges during an event, mastering these reset moments can positively change the way you handle change and uncertainty in your work and ultimately your life. So how do you harness and create reset moments? What is the reset moment? Essentially, a reset moment is a purposeful pause for reflection, awareness, and…
Maximizing Attendee Engagement: Effective Booth Strategies
Originally published on CEIR.org CEIR’s latest report series, Maximizing Attendant and Exhibitor Engagement at Tradeshows, provides valuable benchmarks and insights for brand marketers and event organizers in the post-pandemic world. The data dives into the most effective attendee and exhibitor engagement strategies currently being used in the North American market, covering insights from exhibitors and organizers in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Part I: Exhibitor Booth Strategies: People, Product, Learning, and Other Strategies outlines a range of effective engagement strategies for exhibitors, including fostering meaningful interactions between attendees and booth staff, promoting peer-to-peer communication, and enhancing product engagement. The analysis extends to creating an environment that caters to attendees’ learning needs, employing digital strategies to increase engagement, and implementing emotional strategies to build lasting connections. This report also explores emerging trends in sustainability practices and diversity initiatives within the exhibition space, providing a comprehensive look at best practices for modern exhibitions. The power of human interaction One of the…
CEM Spotlight on Dianna Cardenas, CEM
Dianna Cardenas is the Event Sales Manager at the American Council on Clean Power (ACP). She is part of the business development team responsible for exhibit and sponsorship sales for the RECHARGE: Energy Storage, Siting and Permitting Conference. Dianna received her BA in International and Global Studies with a minor in Political Science from Saint Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas, and her MA in International and Global Studies with a concentration in Negotiation and Conflict Management from the University of Salamanca. Prior to joining ACP, Dianna served as a Membership and Marketing Assistant for the National Association of University Attorneys (NACUA) and worked with DARPA as a researcher for the New America's Natural Resource Security Program. When she's not working, Diane enjoys baking, trying new restaurants, and walking around her neighborhood. She's originally from San Antonio, Texas, but now lives in Washington, D.C. She loves exploring the East Coast without having to drive! Here, Diana shares how she benefited…
Louis Zheng is committed to technology and
Mr. Zheng is currently responsible for the business development of more than ten companies in EXPOTEC Group in Greater China. He is a doctoral student in Hotel and Tourism Management from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Shanghai Jiao Tong University. He has nearly 20 years of experience in the exhibition industry and holds a UFI Exhibition Management Degree (EMD). In addition to serving on the IAEE Events Technical Committee, Louis is also a member of the IAEE Awards Committee and the IAEE China Council. Louis became an instructor for the CEM Learning Program in China hosted by IAEE and CCPIT in 2018 and an instructor for the CIEP course in 2023. Here, Louis shares his thoughts on how technology fits into the evolving exhibitions and events business landscape. What inspired you to join this committee and how do you see your role in bridging…
The road less traveled in the digital landscape
Editor’s Note: Originally published in the August 2024 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine. "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I chose the road less traveled.And that has made a big difference.” Today, I find these lines from Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken” particularly moving. Written in 1915, I can’t help but think that if Frost could have addressed the issues of today’s digital world, these “roads less traveled” seem endless and are both exciting and confusing to the masses currently facing them. Technology is evolving at a rapid pace, and trade shows are at an exciting crossroads. Our options are shifting from enticing concepts to powerful tools that can reshape the way we conceive, plan, and execute events. Industry leaders must realize their potential and create exceptional attendee experiences that drive success. At the forefront of this digital revolution is artificial intelligence (AI), a force for change across industries. From smart chatbots and virtual assistants to predictive…
Enhance your exhibition strategy with data-driven
Originally published on CEIR.org In the fast-paced world of exhibitions, data isn’t just power—it’s your secret weapon. 2024 CEIR Index Reportyour trusted source for unbiased, actionable insights and industry trends to power your exhibition strategy. What is the 2024 CEIR Index Report? this 2024 CEIR Index Report It is a proven tool trusted by exhibition industry professionals. It is designed to represent the entire B2B trade show scene in North America and includes geometric means of four component values – Net Square Feet (NSF), Exhibitors, Attendance and Revenue, forecasts through 2026, and data tables that provide actual numbers for each metric in each sector. In addition, 14 further defined industry sectors allow organizers to compare their own exhibition data with other exhibitions in the same industry sector. Tourism Economics, a division of Oxford Economics, provided data analysis for the index. Industries represented in the index include: Business Services (BZ) Consumer Goods and Services (CG) Discretionary consumer goods and services (CS)…
Building a human wall: Strengthening cybersecurity
By Allen Blount | National Cyber & Technology Product Leader | Risk Strategy Originally posted by Risk Strategies Cyber threats continue to escalate. IBM reports that cyberattacks using stolen or compromised credentials increased 71% year-over-year in 2023, and 32% of cyber incidents involved data theft and leakage. This shows that people are turning to stealing and selling data instead of encrypting it for ransom. The human factor is often the weakest link in cybersecurity risk management. Creating a "human firewall" can significantly enhance your business's ability to defend against these threats. To better understand this concept, let's explore the human factor that plays a key role. The human factor in cybersecurity Research from Stanford University and Tessian shows that human error accounts for more than 80% of cyber incidents. Common human errors include: Social Engineering: Criminals trick employees into revealing confidential information. Click on the malicious link: These links, which often appear in phishing emails, can expose your systems to…
AI governance: The complex conversation we should be having
By Pankaj Goel | CEO and Co-founder | Opkey Originally published on Forbes.com When writing about artificial intelligence (AI) in software, it’s hard not to fall into some of the same old clichés we see so often. Yes, these radical innovations are changing everything from payroll to recruiting, but as we move forward, it’s important to examine another angle: responsibility and governance. “Adopting an AI governance platform is more than just a compliance issue; it is a strategic imperative for organizations that hope to thrive in the AI era,” explained Raghunandhan Kuppuswamy, research manager for AI software at IDC. His message is that we must do more than the minimum when it comes to AI regulation and compliance, and I agree. As providers and supporters of AI technology, corporate leadership teams have a responsibility to develop norms and rulebooks to ensure that the impact of AI is beneficial. I’ve experienced first-hand the issues that arise when implementing AI tools in…
Recommend gift ideas to keep the recommendations coming
Originally posted by 4imprint When it comes to attracting new customers, the value of referrals is unmatched. Across industries, referrals convert three times more than the average lead, making referrals even more valuable. It makes sense, too—wouldn’t you trust a friend’s recommendation of a product or service more than an advertisement? Businesses can achieve meaningful referrals by offering customers an incentive to spread the word. These five referral gift ideas can help you attract high-value customers. Share the link and get rewarded Getting referrals doesn't have to be complicated. When customers make an online purchase, offer them the option to share a unique link that takes people to a selection of exclusive offers. Customers can choose to share this special link with family or friends and on social media. When a new user clicks on that link, it triggers a reward for the referring customer. Offer tiered business referral gifts as a thank you. After their first referral, they receive…
Proud of fostering DEI
Editor’s Note: Originally published in the June 2024 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine. Pride Month reminds us of the importance of creating inclusive spaces within our organizations, where every team member feels valued and recognized. As we celebrate the LGBTQ+ community this month, we have the opportunity to reflect on how we can create a company culture that truly values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Diversity goes beyond the differences we see; it encompasses the myriad perspectives, experiences, and identities that make each of us unique. As executives, it is our responsibility to recognize, embrace, and build successful collaboration among team members despite these differences. By fostering a culture that not only recognizes but actively celebrates our differences, we empower our teams to bring their authentic selves to work and contribute to our shared success together. To build an inclusive corporate culture, executives must first understand the importance of leading by example. Our behaviors, actions, and policies should communicate our…
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