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…
Value-Based Selling and CEIR Research: The Key Combination
By Dan Cole | Senior Director of Exhibit Sales | AVIXA Originally published on CEIR.org I have had the privilege of working in the trade show industry for 25 years. My approach to selling sponsorships and exhibit space has been shaped by years of experience, challenges, and successes. Exhibition and sponsorship sales drive revenue growth Report 1: Planning, products, results, and future prospects Focuses on exhibition and sponsorship sales methods and provides valuable insights into industry trends. CEIR’s report highlights the importance of a consultative, value-based sales approach as the cornerstone of successful sales and business development efforts. Understanding your customers’ goals, pain points, and motivations is critical. By asking thought-provoking questions, we can tailor solutions that meet specific needs and provide a tangible return on investment. In fact, providing clients with a measurable ROI has moved from a nice-to-have to a must-have. The report highlights some of the more popular offerings currently available at trade shows for potential sponsors…
Event gifts they’ll use throughout the year
Originally posted by 4imprint Offline events play an important role for organizations in many industries—from technology to healthcare to entertainment. Nearly 76% of event organizers believe that offline gatherings will become increasingly important to the success of their organization in the coming years. Regardless of the industry, when companies gather at conferences, trade shows, and other events, they want to stand out. One way to attract attention is through the creative use of event giveaways. The first step is to identify promotional products that people not only want but are most likely to use. Research from the International Promotional Products Association shows that 49% of people keep promotional products for more than five years. The most common reason they do so is that the product is useful. With this in mind, we explored promotional products for events that recipients would keep returning to. Celebration Drinkware Treat event giveaways as souvenirs. Nearly 40% of people said they keep promotional items because…
Artificial Intelligence: Friend or Foe? – IAEE
By: Nicole Bowman, MBA, CEM-AP | Vice President of Marketing and Communications | IAEE Growing up, I heard about IBM Watson but never really understood what it was about. I watched Minority Report, I Robot, and other similar movies as a kid, and AI was always considered a doomsday technology that would take over the world and remove humans from the workforce. In the wrong hands, it would be very dangerous. Companies would use it to lay off employees. We are now at that point. Although AI has been around for decades, it is making waves in mainstream society. 2024 looks to be the year that AI is accepted into our lives, not to take over, but to enrich our lives. Enter the world of the modern marketer. I’m taking a stand right now. AI is my friend! Why? Because I’m a marketer. Because I have a small team that’s pulled in a million different directions every day. Because our…
IAEE Spotlights 2023 Chapter Merit Award Recipient Ray Baum
By Mary Tucker | Senior Communications and Content Manager | IAEE Ray Baum has served on the IAEE Dallas/Fort Worth Chapter Board of Directors since January 2019. His general attitude and willingness to move the industry forward is critical to the chapter’s success in hosting relevant, well-organized events and increasing sponsorship dollars. Ray's contributions include creating new programs and improving existing ones that directly engage new chapter members and provide learning opportunities; supporting the IAEE DFW Chapter's sponsorship program; and setting attendance records at several chapter events. In addition to serving on the IAEE DFW Board of Directors, he serves as the IAEE Southwest Chapter's Director of Marketing and Communications and a member of numerous IAEE education committees, including the Expo! Expo! Advisory Committee. Ray's commitment to his chapter's success earned him the IAEE Chapter Merit Award last year, which he received at Expo! IAEE's Annual Conference and Exhibition in Dallas, Texas, in December (click here to watch Ray's acceptance…
Top 10 cities by economic power in 2024
By Anthony Bernard-Sasges | Senior Economist, Cities and Regions | Oxford Economics Originally published by Oxford Economics We recently released our new Global Cities Index, which covers the world’s 1,000 largest cities and assesses their performance across five categories: economy, human capital, quality of life, environment, and governance. In Part 1 of our blog series, we covered the overall results of the Global Cities Index. Now, in Part 2, we’ll take a closer look at the best performing cities in the economic category. The important role of economics categories A city’s economy plays a critical role in its prosperity and attractiveness to residents, businesses, and investors. As a fundamental aspect of urban development, economic vitality is key to a city’s wealth creation, job creation, access to goods and services, and more. But while GDP growth is often the single metric most often looked at, the pace of a city’s economic expansion is not the only metric (and in many cases,…
Protect your business from deepfake threats
By Allen Blount | National Cyber & Technology Product Leader | Risk Strategy Originally Posted by Risk Strategy Deepfake technology blurs the line between reality and fiction. While deepfakes are sometimes used for entertainment purposes or as a novelty, they can be a dangerous tool for cybercriminals and can be used for scams, blackmail, and disinformation. Learn more about this threat so you can proactively prepare and protect your business. What are deepfakes? Deepfakes use artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to manipulate audio and video to convincingly replicate a person’s voice, image, expressions, and movements. This ability to forge another person’s likeness makes deepfakes a powerful tool for spreading false information, stealing data and money, and damaging reputations. Business Impact The threat posed by deepfakes goes far beyond personal privacy. They put companies at risk for financial fraud, reputational damage, and loss of public trust. For example, a finance officer was tricked into transferring $25 million to scammers who…
Dealing with Stress in Event Planning: Resetting Your Mindset
By Penny Zenker, aka The Focusologist Did you know this not-so-fun fact about event planning jobs? The 2023 World Scholarship Pool ranks event planning as the third most stressful job in the world, behind the military and home health aides and ahead of first responders, social workers and teachers. The pressure to ensure everything runs smoothly, the unpredictability of certain factors, and the constant need for creativity can overwhelm even the most experienced planners. Stress impairs your brain’s ability to think creatively and find solutions. Stress also triggers the fight-or-flight response, which limits your focus and keeps you focused on immediate survival rather than long-term problem solving. In event planning, these limitations can cause psychological blocks that can leave you feeling stuck and unable to move forward. So I’m here to tell you something that can help you relieve stress, regain control, and keep you focused on what’s really important: Reset. When you realize stress is taking over, you can…
The Power of Collaboration – IAEE
Editor’s Note: Originally published in the July 2024 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine. On behalf of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE), I would like to celebrate and congratulate Trade Show Executive (TSE) has been committed to faithfully serving professionals representing all facets of our industry for over 25 years. Over the years, IAEE has maintained a close relationship with TSE through various partnerships and reciprocal agreements. During this time, we have experienced extraordinary growth in our industry and supported each other in breaking new ground. Looking back at our decades of collaboration, I can't help but realize that this exemplifies the indelible benefits of collaboration between industry organizations. We are all committed to bringing people together, building connections and driving innovation. Collaboration plays a vital role in accelerating growth, increasing productivity and shaping the future of our industry. Bringing together diverse perspectives, expertise and resources enables the development of breakthrough ideas, solutions and experiences that push…
5 ways to use artificial intelligence to grow your business without any technical skills
By Noelle Russell | Leading AI Innovator and Practitioner | Founder and Chief AI Officer | AI Leadership Institute Originally published on CEIR.org In the fast-paced digital age, mastering artificial intelligence (AI) has become a cornerstone for businesses to maintain growth and leadership. However, for many leaders and entrepreneurs, the mere mention of AI brings to mind complex algorithms and difficult-to-understand coding languages, leading to tech stress. However, incorporating AI into your business strategy doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Here are five practical ways to leverage AI for business growth, tailored for those who want to explore the world of AI without getting bogged down in the technical details. 1. Start with “Why”: Define your business goals Start by clarifying what you hope to achieve with AI. Whether it’s enhancing customer experience, streamlining operations, or gaining new insights from data, a clear goal will guide your AI journey. Remember, AI is not just a tool, but a means…
Feel the love of IAEE! Part 3: You have someone
By Mary Tucker | Senior Communications and Content Manager | IAEE The real power of IAEE membership is its ability to connect the different communities of the exhibitions and events industry. Not only do IAEE members gain access to resources specific to their field, but they also join a large ecosystem where knowledge flows freely between communities. In part one of this series, we explored the professional development opportunities available through IAEE. Part two delved into how individual chapters serve as gateways between local connections and the extended national/international IAEE “family.” Here we will learn about the various communities IAEE serves and the channels that facilitate learning and collaboration among all groups. Consumer Activities IAEE's Consumer Events Community is a treasure trove of opportunities for business-to-consumer (B2C) show producers. Members can network with other B2C organizers, gain access to professional resources and guidance from IAEE's dedicated Consumer Events Committee, plus have the opportunity to participate in learning experiences specifically for…
CEM Spotlight Leah Racinskas Salinas, CEM
Leah Racinskas Salinas, CEM has over 20 years of experience in event planning and coordination, working with a wide variety of industries, formats, and audiences. She is currently the Show Operations Coordinator at Informa Connect, overseeing the logistics and execution of Fan Expo, a series of fan conventions celebrating pop culture, comics, gaming, and more, with up to 100,000 attendees. She is passionate about producing high-quality events that connect and educate people from all backgrounds and industries. In addition to being CEM qualified and Virtual Hybrid Live certified, Leah uses her contract negotiation, meeting planning and marketing skills to consistently exceed expectations. She is also a visual artist and beauty professional with a background in fashion, film, theatre and photography. Here, Leah shares how she has benefited from gaining the CEM qualification and how she enjoys learning new things and working with others who share her vision and passion. How has the CEM qualification helped you in your career? I…
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