Putting together all the pieces of a perfect meeting isn’t easy, but professional meeting planners know to rely on the expertise of the conference center staff to assist. Here are six key items to consider.
1. Choose the right location. It should be far enough away from the office so that the attendees won’t be distracted by interruptions and messages. It also should have the following features.
* Experienced and knowledgeable conference service managers (CSM)
* Comfortable, ergonomic furnishings
* Individual room temperature and lighting controls
* The latest in meetings and communications technology
* A skilled technical staff to assist you with presentations
* Excellent food and beverage service
* High-quality overnight accommodations
2. Plan. Tell the CSM what you hope to accomplish with the meeting. Often , he or she will be able to enhance the focus of the meeting to help you reach your goals.
3. Organize. The CSM can help you arrange all the events and can even provide you with a checklist of things to be completed, beginning as far out as one year before the conference or event.
4. Take care of details. Using the checklist and working closely with the CSM will make this part go smoothly.
5. Budget appropriately. Cheap and good quality usually don’t correlate. Don’t spend foolishly, but be prepared to invest enough for good results. Often, the CSM can help you stretch your budget while maintaining the quality that you desire.
6. Keep a sense of humor. Be prepared for contingencies and learn to laugh when mishaps occur to keep a sane perspective on life.
Source: Shisler Conference Center, (330) 287-1486 or www.shislercenter.com.
