Issue Contents
|
Ray Bloom |
Christopher Perrins |
Piggyback research opportunity Johanna Fischer, tmf GmbH |
Fostering positive understanding Pat Durocher, Global Cynergies |
|
IMEX Women's Forum |
Innovation and creativity |
Driving grass roots change |
Response for challenging times Edgar Hirt, AIPC and Congress Center Hamburg |
In control in Turkey |
|
|
Titta Rossval-Puplett, DMAI European Office |
|
Creativity, quality and ROI rule in 2009 Martin Sirk, ICCA |
New green workshops |
Zone out with Leading Spas |
Wild Card winners! |
Innovation unleashed |
Brenda Anderson, Site |
Global Data Exchange relaunches |
Creative and practical solutions at the Tech Tap |
The Briefing interview |
|
|
Nikki Williams |
Linked in at Association Day |
Live marketing expert leads seminar line-up Lutz P. Vogt, GCB German Convention Bureau |
Is it a bird or is it a crane? Paul Flackett |
|
|
Downlo
ads
Download a pdf version of the IMEX Newsletter Briefing
Download a pdf version of the special edition Future Leaders Forum insert
Business opportunities
Business opportunities at IMEX 2009 are set to grow due to a further increase in the number of hosted buyers attending from across the world; an increase in the length of time they will spend on the show floor and an expansion in the numbers attending from the vitally important German outbound meetings market.
These outcomes are the result of IMEX’s long-term strategy to build and extend our network of global and European intermediary partners who invite hosted buyers to the show. New buyer groups are due to travel from Asia, the US, Australia, Russia, Chile, Dubai, Europe and South Africa. Consequently, we confidently expect more than 3,700 hosted buyers to attend from almost 60 world markets.
Last year more than 12% of all buyers attending IMEX represented the powerful association market. This sector remains one of the least affected by the global economic outlook and, as our latest Association Research shows, planners on the whole are confident about the future, expressing a range of “positives” including belief in their own expertise, trouble-shooting skills and negotiating ability, plus expanding membership and programmes.
Once again, the IMEX Association Day and Evening will deliver an outstanding educational programme and an opportunity for exhibitors to network with hundreds of association buyers prior to the opening of the show.
I am also delighted to announce the signing of a new Global Partnership agreement between MPI and IMEX.
|
Ray Bloom, Chairman, IMEX |
Together we will be building on the success of our Future Leader Forums which continue to expand worldwide; as well as new scholarship schemes which will be launched next year. We are looking forward to working together to use our combined experience, resources and drive to generate fresh ideas and innovation for the benefit of the industry at large.
New intuitive website
After considerable research with users of the IMEX website, as well as anecdotal feedback, improved portals have been designed to provide an easy-to-use intuitive process for exhibitors and hosted buyers to manage their participation online.
Any complicated navigation processes have been removed, a breadcrumb trail has been introduced and the portals are laid out in a simple, clear format, with descriptive icons on a white background and the most immediate tasks at the top of the page. Most importantly the major improvements have been focussed on providing more business opportunities to buyers and exhibitors - helping both to maximise their time on the show floor.
“results match exactly those the buyer wants to see”
New features for this year include:
Updated Exhibitor Directory Search
Many exhibition websites allow buyers to search for exhibitors using only products and countries. This can be a cumbersome exercise, as a buyer looking for a destination management company in Italy can be presented with hundreds of results. IMEX now uses an intelligent keyword search function, allowing buyers to locate exhibitors in the directory using a combination of words that search the entire exhibitor record. For example, you can now locate a destination management company in Milan or a conference centre in Durban by simply using these keywords in the search. The exhibitors in the results match exactly those the buyer wants to see. |
|
New Online Diary Messaging Service
Communication between buyers and exhibitors before IMEX is crucial to the success of appointments at the exhibition. Buyers and exhibitors will now be able to communicate with each other using the new Online Diary Messaging Service, ensuring that both parties are prepared for their meeting in Frankfurt.
Updated Online Diary
Two new features are being developed to improve the Online Diary, with the emphasis on getting buyers to meet the right exhibitor at IMEX. Buyers will be able to send a document (e.g. a Request for Proposal) to an exhibitor when making an appointment. This will allow the exhibitor to have all the necessary information for the appointment. In addition, exhibitors will be able to allocate the appointment to a registered member of staff on their stand, as well as indicate where on the stand the buyer needs to go. When a buyer prints their diary, they can see all this information, and know exactly who they are seeing, and where to locate this person on the stand. |
|
Exhibition Buyers Guide
The Exhibition Buyers Guide allows exhibitors to download selections of buyers based on the
buyers’ product and country information. This year exhibitors will be able to download a pre-
|
Christopher Perrins, Marketing Technology Manager, IMEX |
selected list of buyers. This feature provides a list of buyers who match exactly the exhibitors’ products and location. For
example, an exhibitor who is a destination management company in Europe will be able to automatically select all buyers looking for a destination management company in Europe. This exact-match service will allow exhibitors to target the right buyers for the exhibition.
Piggyback research opportunity
The MICE destination marketing specialist tmf – Travel Marketing Factory GmbH is preparing for the next edition of the MMM – MICE Market Monitor, due to be issued in spring 2009. This sought-after study is conducted every year in co-operation with IMEX. It aims to provide detailed insight and year on year trend comparisons within and between the German-speaking outbound MICE markets.
The survey also provides interested parties with the opportunity to “piggyback” specific questions into the study, which last year provided important data and feedback on work flow, budgets and other key factors from nearly 500 MICE agency and corporate planners.
The tmf 2009 report is expected to provide another excellent set of data and valuable information which can then be
 |
Johanna Fischer, Managing Director, tmf GmbH |
applied in planning marketing and sales strategies to ensure they are based on sound market intelligence.
Tourist offices and convention bureaus wanting to take advantage of this opportunity to carry out a “piggyback” study should contact tmf GmbH.
Fostering positive understanding
The meetings industry is one of the most dynamic and diverse in the world, delivering millions, even billions, in revenue to local and global economies. To attract business in 2008, suppliers have had to review their overall strategies to survive and many have made innovative changes. As a result of these changes the meetings industry continues to provide immense opportunities for the best and the brightest.
“huge need for talented individuals”
In addition, as more emerging destinations such as the Gulf, Asia, and Eastern Europe continue to develop their travel infrastructures and convention centres, there will be a huge need for talented individuals to fill hundreds of thousands of jobs.
While one obvious “perk” of joining this segment is the opportunity to see the world, others include experiencing numerous cultures in a single place, developing relationships, even friendships, around the world and sharing information with those who come from different backgrounds.
From a global perspective one of the most important outcomes of this exchange is the opportunity to effect positive changes and foster a better understanding of how we all do business. Remember, the conference services person you work with today may someday be the Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing for a global brand tomorrow!
|
Pat Durocher, CEO and Founder, Global Cynergies www.globalcynergies.com |
Pat Durocher is CEO and Founder of Global Cynergies, LLC. A venue selection company based in Scottsdale, Arizona, which anticipates bringing 20+ hosted buyers to IMEX 2009. For more information contact Judy Henrich, Director, Recruitment and Industry Relations at jhenrich@globalcynergies.com.
Proving your worth
Tyra W. Hilliard Esq., CMP, an attorney, consultant and educator providing legal counsel and services to meeting and event professionals in corporate, non-profit, and association settings, will lead two Women's Forum seminars at IMEX.
The first seminar ‘How to present yourself both in interviews and on the job’ will look at job sharing, telecommuting, time sharing and satellite offices. You will be shown how to ensure you are an integral part of a team, how to keep a team together and how to prove your worth.
The second will see a panel of managers discussing ‘How to hire and retain an effective team’. Past management structures will be analysed to see how we can learn from past successes and failures.
See www.imex-frankfurt.com/whatson.html to check times and locations for all events at IMEX including the Women’s Forum seminars.
www.imex-frankfurt.com/women.html
Innovation and creativity
Innovation and creativity will be the over-riding themes of IMEX’s professional education next May. Starting with Association Day on Monday 25th where internationally recognised futurist Elliott Masie will be talking about the latest thinking on adult education (p.11) and running through to the last day of the show when Maarten Vanneste, Author of ‘Meeting Architecture’ and President and CEO of Abbit Meeting Support, will present his theories on how to effectively design the substance of a meeting.
The seminar themes – in both English and German – are carefully structured to help drive your business over the coming year. A top line up of both industry and non-industry professionals will be on-hand to advise and provide practical business models to help you make the most of your meetings, conferences and events in terms of their content, best practice, budget management and measurement techniques.
Highlights of the programme include Holger Scholz, IAF Certified Professional Facilitator, Kommunikationslotsen, who will talk about ‘Unconferencing - facilitating meetings that really matter’, in both German and English on each day of the show. He will demonstrate how to take a different approach to meetings using facilitation techniques such as open space, world café, visual facilitation, appreciative inquiry and whole scale change. On Tuesday morning, a panel of ICCA's expert event organisers and suppliers from around the world will discuss what creativity actually means in the context of running successful international meetings. ‘Creativity - the quest for our industry's Holy Grail’, will be a provocative and stimulating early morning debate, make sure you are there to add your own creative comments!
Richard John, Managing Director, RJA (GB) Ltd, meanwhile will deliver his popular exhibitor marketing session the day prior to the opening of the show. As well as two very different sessions on Thursday - ‘Why your conferences are probably boring – and what you should do about them’ in which he will explain the many common mistakes that conference organisers make and how to rectify them; as well as ‘The ROI challenge – if you can’t measure it, can you manage it? Exploring value and measurement in the world of events,’ which will present the case for looking at more effective measurements for both commercial and NFP organisations.
And don’t miss Rohit Talwar’s sessions which will look at innovation and the future forces shaping our industry.
www.imex-frankfurt.com/whatson.html
Driving grass routes change
The last issue of Briefing was all about influence and the importance of representing the meetings industry at the highest levels of government. By demonstrating the value – economic, social and legacy – that meetings and events can bring to destination we raise both our industry profile and standing.
Held under the auspices of the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) and co-organised with European Cities Marketing (ECM), the IMEX Politicians Forum gives the industry a chance to speak to policy makers from across the world and be heard with one consistent voice. In 2008 a record number of 25 politicians, representing local and regional government in Europe, Africa, Australia and Canada, attended IMEX and saw for themselves the scale and importance of our sector.
This year we will be showing politicians how meetings and events can influence the well-being of their destination as a major driver of economic development across a range of industries. Make your voice heard by inviting your local politician to attend the IMEX 2009 Politicians Forum, which will take place on Tuesday 26 May. For more information please contact Debbie Woodbridge DWoodbridge@imex-frankfurt.com. For a full report on the 2008 Forum see: www.imex-frankfurt.com/politforum.html
Response for challenging times
AIPC’s newest programme offerings are providing very timely support to members in three areas identified as among the most critical concerns in the industry today.
The AIPC Academy, an annual professional development programme, now entering its third year, is geared to providing an in-depth industry overview both for new manager orientation and for existing managers who need to broaden their industry perspective before taking on more senior roles.
“facilitates rapid development of international networks”
The Academy directly addresses the growing challenge of attracting competent, experienced staff at a time of growing labour shortages. It aims to advance their qualifications and also provides an incentive for staff to stay within the organisation. The Academy also facilitates the rapid development of international networks, as each Academy session brings together participants from centres all over the world.
Also new and extremely timely is AIPC’s new Quality Standards programme. These standards, and the audit process that accompanies them, enable AIPC member centres to distinguish their performance in an increasingly competitive market as well as enabling CEOs to assess achievement in key areas. The result is not only greater marketability but also potential advancements in operating efficiency and staff satisfaction.
 |
Edgar Hirt, President, AIPC and Managing Director, Congress Center Hamburg www.aipc.org |
Finally, the AIPC Sales and Marketing Summit will be staged at IMEX. It has created a forum for both identifying new market challenges and also developing skills and strategies to address them. In a time of rapid change, this kind of opportunity to share experiences and ideas with colleagues has become invaluable for everyone.
In control in Turkey
INCON will hold its first meetings of 2009 in Istanbul, the country of INCON partner Mustafa Gurbuz of SERENAS.
First of all, board members will discuss plans for the coming year. Members are aware of the impact the current economic climate could mean for their clients, although association meetings tend to remain stable whatever the over-riding trend. Nevertheless, INCON will focus on lowering any impact on our corporate and association client base.
“continues the INCON tradition of investing in staff and management education”
Following the board meeting, an INCON launch will be attended by members of the industry in Turkey, government officials and international press. INCON will give a series of talks on the industry from its viewpoint as the leading consortium of professional conference organisers in the world.
The third meeting will be the INCON University with the theme of ‘Sponsorship and Exhibitions’. This will be delivered through an excellent programme devised by Dean Roslyn McLeod. The University will be attended by senior staff from our international partner base around the world and continues the INCON tradition of investing in staff and management education.
Following the successful launch of the ‘We Put You in Control” marketing strategy at last year’s IMEX, INCON also plans to expand on this theme at IMEX come May.
MPI and IMEX – global partnership confirmed
Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and IMEX have signed a new Integrated Partnership Agreement which outlines a series of joint initiatives in Europe, plus a Global Partnership Agreement which formalises a number of worldwide projects. Together the partnership covers the continued development and expansion of the Future Leaders Programme, a new sponsorship programme to be launched in 2009, plus joint working and research through the MPI Foundation.
“MPI is experiencing rapid growth in Europe”
This enhanced integrated partnership builds on a very strong relationship between the two organisations that have co-operated on the creation of key industry projects such as the Women’s Leadership Initiative in Europe, the Future Leaders Forum programme and the CultureActive tool.
Although the MPI community is based predominantly in North America, MPI is experiencing rapid growth in Europe and has become the largest association on the continent with over 2,400 members with a combined buying power exceeding € 1,600,000,000. European Chapters and clubs are active in Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France-Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, the Netherlands, Norway and the UK, with new chapters soon to be underway in the Czech Republic and Greece. The organisation also recently chartered its first chapter in Asia (Korea) and in Latin America (Brazil).
The new agreements allow IMEX to continue strengthening its presence in the meetings industry while gaining further exposure to MPI’s 24,000 meeting professionals around the globe. For MPI, the partnership will assist with its ongoing efforts to bolster and increase professional development and networking opportunities for its membership base.
DMCs as local experts
Today’s young professionals are technologically savvy, connected 24/7, optimistic, comfortably self-reliant, lifestyle-centred, entrepreneurial and well travelled. However, when entering the meetings industry, these young professionals can soon discover there’s still a need for local experts – DMCs!
The term “Destination Management Company” (DMC), was coined in 1982 by Euromic’s Swedish member, Tom Risbecker, to distinguish the function of its members from those of ground service operators. By this definition, a DMC specifically aimed to serve the meetings industry.
First and foremost, a DMC provides solutions by exercising local knowledge providing neutral information about the existence and characteristics of products, reducing exposure to risk, balancing sometimes competing needs and reducing costs. Each DMC also provides unbiased evaluation and quality control of relevant venues, as well as needs assessment and product matching services.
“even if rice and fish aren’t hard to find, the market hasn’t eliminated the sushi chefs”
The DMC role is obviously emphasised if the programme requires innovation and tailor-made services. The coordination role played by DMCs in this exchange process is actually a multifaceted set of functions, which are unlikely to be seriously affected by any online service. Remember too, that it is, in fact, the DMC who will be on site to make sure that everything is in place and that this quality control is often what makes the difference between success and disaster at the final event.
Through their experience with the location and the suppliers, a DMC can spot potential problems or disasters within services, often before they materialise, so participants need never even know. This factor, perhaps above all, is probably the greatest added value a DMC can deliver.
|
Christophe Verstraete, Executive Director, Euromic www.euromic.com |
This added value is nicely summarised in a metaphor: “Even if rice and fish aren’t hard to find, the market hasn’t eliminated the sushi chefs, because of their expertise with the knife & the roll…”
All credit to Lille
DMAI (Destination Marketing Association International) has announced the first European DMO, Lille Convention Bureau, to receive the prestigious seal of Destination Marketing Accreditation Programme (DMAP).
“extremely rewarding for the whole city of Lille”
Developed by DMAI, the industry-wide accreditation programme is designed to recognise organisations that meet or exceed industry standards.
"Being the first accredited European DMO is extremely rewarding for the whole city of Lille, as well as our whole team, as they worked very hard for this," says Charles-Eric Vilain XIIII, Managing Director of the Lille Convention Bureau.
"The entire process was extremely interesting and useful. We discovered many industry resources, such as DMAI's various measurement tools. The process also solidified the need to be exceptionally professional in our approach toward our clients, as well as toward our stakeholders and partners." Lille Convention Bureau, along with 12 other DMOs, attained the accreditation status for 2008-2012. Today there are 68 accredited worldwide.
Important dates for DMAI’s European members this year include two levels of Destination Sales Training, a programme which is designed for entry to mid-level DMO professionals, at Woodland Grange in the UK between 3rd and 6th March plus
 |
Titta Rossval-Puplett, Managing Director, DMAI European Office www.destinationmarketing.org |
similar sessions in Belgrade, Serbia from 22nd September. The DMAI Leadership Forum will also take place in Glasgow from 14th October. This interactive forum for CEOs, presidents, and executive directors of CVBs will help them acquire vital knowledge on crucial issues affecting the meetings industry and global tourism, as well as practical solutions for attracting new business.
Creativity, quality and ROI rule in 2009
ICCA's 850 member companies around the world are entering 2009 in a cautious mind-set: a survey carried out in October 2008 indicated that most were expecting the year to end ahead of, or in line with, the record-breaking results of 2007. However, there were clear concerns about future prospects for 2009 and beyond. Nevertheless, less than one fifth were planning to cut their marketing budgets, and only 12% anticipated staff cuts or job vacancies left unfilled.
“it’s going to be a global buyers’ market for the first time in years”
The mood at the ICCA Congress in Victoria, Canada, in November reflected this positivity. The international association market was widely recognised as a key, stable market segment in economically turbulent times, and ICCA's strategy of increasing investment in research, sales and marketing to these reliable clients was widely endorsed.
However, ICCA members were clear that 2009 is going to be more competitive than ever. If companies and destinations are going to be successful they will have to deliver greater creativity, higher quality, and clearly demonstrate return on investment. Equally, the shift suggests it’s going to be a global buyers' market for the first time in years, so suppliers are going to have to think carefully about how flexible their contracts are and what added value they can offer within standard packages. For larger events it will become even more critical to understand client objectives and to truly act as a business partner in helping to deliver meetings in an efficient and creative manner.
|
Martin Sirk, CEO, ICCA www.iccaworld.com |
ICCA will be running its biggest ever programme at IMEX in 2009, and we are confident that the show's clear focus on delivering top quality clients and programmes will be a recipe for success.
New green workshops
For the first time the Corporate Responsibility Centre will be offering green workshops at IMEX. Led by Tamara Kennedy, Executive Director, Green Meeting Industry Council and Fiona Pelham, Founder Member, Positive Impact, the twice-daily workshops will focus on “Steps to sustainability - how to get green”. Covering the latest ways in which the events industry is positively influencing the global environment, local community and business economics, the workshops will benefit you whether you are starting your CSR journey or leading the way with the implementation of CSR.
Also on offer are expert advice, tool kits and case studies and the opportunity to discuss your particular CSR programme, understand how to develop one from scratch, or simply pick up tips for improvements.
IMEX partners with the Green Meeting Industry Council (GMIC) to bring the Corporate Responsibility Centre to the show. GMIC also jointly run the IMEX Green Awards - the Commitment to the Community Award, the Green Exhibitor Award, the Green Supplier Award and the Green Meetings Award. See www.imex-frankfurt.com/theawards.html for more information including how to apply.
www.imex-frankfurt.com/crc.html
Zone out with Leading Spas
The popular Pampering Zone will be back at IMEX on the Leading Hotels of the World stand.
Spa specialists from Hotel Nassauer Hof Wiesbaden – a Leading Spa, will offer visitors pampering treats including facials, massages and make up refreshers.
Leading Spas of the World is the first global evaluation and internationally recognised certification programme for the spa and hotel industry.
www.imex-frankfurt.com/pamperingzone.html
Wild Card winners!
The Wild Card winners for 2009 are:
| The Cook Islands - One of the world’s last truly unspoiled places, this extraordinary chain of Pacific islands is situated right in the heart of Polynesia. Amongst their treasures are stretches of dazzlingly white, coral sand beachfront, palm fringed lagoons and mountainous forested interiors. |  |
| Novi Sad, Serbia – Located on the Danube in the autonomous Serbian province of Vojvodina, Novi Sad is Serbia’s second largest city offering both urban sophistication and bohemian relaxation amongst the beautiful ornate architecture. |  |
| Tianjin Economic Technological Development Area (TEDA), China – Tianjin is a modern city with 600 years of history known for its unique architecture and cuisine. TEDA is a well-built industrial zone with comprehensive infrastructure within easy reach of Beijing in northern China. |  |
Masurian Conference Centre Zamek Ryn, Poland – Located in the Ryn Castle hotel in the Great Masurian Lakes region, the Conference Centre offers up-to-date facilities for both small and large conferences and meetings, and banquets. |
 |
For 2009 the Wild Card programme was extended to allow not only destinations but also new convention and conference centres (those currently in development or which have been open for three years or less) from new and emerging destinations to apply.
Also exhibiting on the German stand as part of the GCB German Convention Bureau’s own Wild Card programme are SwarmWork Ltd and City Management und Tourismus Chemnitz GmbH.
Each winner will receive free of charge space at the show together with a marketing and organisational support package.
www.imex-frankfurt.com/wildcard.html
Innovation unleashed
More industry innovators have been confirmed for the Professional Development and Innovation Pavilion including Maarten Vanneste, author of ‘Meeting Architecture’, and President and CEO of Abbit Meeting Support; personality types expert Ann Holmes CMM, Annfacil Meetings and Management, and Rohit Talwar, CEO of Fast Future Events. They join a line up which includes Holger Scholz, Professional Facilitator, Kommunikationsloten and Johanna Fischer, Managing Director, tmf – Travel Marketing Factory GmbH.
They will be on hand to offer their expertise and advice in one to one sessions and group seminars, giving delegatesthechance to discuss how to develop their careers and their businesses with the most forward thinking people in the industry.
The Pavilion will be sponsored by the Convention Industry Council (CIC).
www.imex-frankfurt.com/pdp.html
Wired, weird or wasted?
Rohit Talwar, global futurist and CEO of Fast Future Events, travels the world meeting the people and organisations shaping the future and specialises in the future of meetings, travel and the association market. Rohit's recent book, ‘Designing Your Future’ provides a practical roadmap for organisations wanting to prepare themselves for an uncertain future.
Rohit will lead two sessions at IMEX:
Innovation unleashed - delivering world class events on a low budget
For event owners, venues and suppliers alike, the pressure is on to inform, provide practical solutions and deliver increasing return on investment for participants, whilst keeping costs down and budgeting for smaller audiences. An effective solution requires genuine innovation - but the fear is that innovation costs and the budgets are not there to fund new ideas. In this idea packed session, Rohit will present the results of his latest research on who in the events industry is winning in downturn and how they are doing it. The following issues will be addressed:
- Refilling the tank - how to keep staff motivated in a world of bad news with zero budgets
- Free marketing - how to exploit a range of free 'high impact' online and offline marketing solutions
- Mobilising the audience - how to engage and mobilise attendees to help design, market and deliver your events
- Innovating the experience - how to use highly participative events to achieve high levels of engagement and great outcomes with limited budget
- Working the professionals - rethinking the speaker and supplier experience
- Venue 2.0 - what are the next generation of 'low or no cost services' venues can provide to transform the experience for their customers
- The innovation edge - how to engage the providers of innovative event technologies when you don't have the funds to do it
Meeting 2020 - wired, weird or wasted?
A 'perfect storm' of economic, social, technological and environmental factors are forcing leaders in the industry to stand back and think about the future shape of the industry and how to ensure a viable sector in a world that could be both very different and much the same as today. In this thought provoking session, Rohit will share the latest findings from Fast Future Events’ ongoing research into how the industry might develop. This fast paced session will cover a range of topics including:
- Driving forces shaping the future of the industry
- How might technology change every aspect of meetings from design to
delivery - Scenarios for the future of meetings
- Implications for key sectors in the industry
- Key questions for how you design your business
- What now - insights and ideas that you can act on tomorrow
Invest for success
In today’s digital world face-to-face interactions still reign as the most meaningful way to connect with colleaguesand customers. Events provide the ability to engage a significant number of people in a small amount of time. This makes tradeshows, conferences and education summits a high return on energy (ROE). Attending industry activities also provides a sense of what happens in the marketplace in real time, and being part of these events is being part of the pulse of the industry.
“Make your plans and work your plans for success”
In a year where many may feel financial pressures, Site urges you not to cut short on industry participation. Events like IMEX deliver vital education and the opportunity to acquire best practices and gain competitive insight. They clearly extend the industry’s professional network and they allow every participant to accomplish a great deal of business in a concise time.
So as everyone looks forward and prepares their schedule for the rest of 2009, remember to include IMEX in May and Site’s International Conference in Aruba at the end of October (30 Oct – 2 Nov). And if your organisation has orchestrated a world-class motivational programme, then we urge you
|
Brenda Anderson, CEO, Site www.site-intl.org |
to plan to enter the Crystal Award competition in June.
The year ahead can hold more good than you can possibly imagine if you follow the simple saying: Make your plans and work your plans and you will have success.
Global Data Exchange relaunches
In response to growing visitor traffic and increased demand for fast access, up-to-date industry research, IMEX has redesigned its free online research library - the Global Data Exchange.
Originally established in 2004 as a showcase for occasional industry surveys, the IMEX Global Data Exchange is now one of the most frequently visited and widely used resources on the IMEX website. It comprises specially commissioned regional, global and market specific research, including surveys conducted with industry partners.
“up-to-the-minute opinions, trends and analysis from across the globe”
The online Exchange also includes IMEX’s “bellwether” reports - the Quarterly Barometer of Confidence and the annual IMEX Meetings Industry Outlook. The IMEX reports are largely snapshot surveys conducted amongst an international cross-section of IMEX hosted buyers, suppliers and visitors and are intended to give up-to-the-minute opinions, trends and analysis from across the globe. 
IMEX’s most recent research study – the 2008 Q3 Quarterly Barometer of Confidence - showed that over half of its 150 respondents expect the number of meetings they are planning to increase against a strong 2008, with only 5% expecting budgets to be reduced. This apparent optimism is supported by a recent ICCA (International Congress and Convention Association) survey which received almost 250 responses – 30% of their membership. In their October survey, only 8.5% of respondents indicated that they have suffered a significant downturn as a result of the economic environment, whilst 44% reported no impact whatsoever and 48% reported a slight impact on their business.
Several of the IMEX research reports offer separate, detailed analysis of the German market, reflecting its importance as the largest outbound market in Europe. Other regular surveys are designed to reinforce and complement IMEX’s New Vision projects, which aim to positively influence attitudes and behaviour within the industry. These include association trends, green meetings, multi-cultural trends, professional education, incentive travel and emerging markets.
Forthcoming IMEX surveys will address the impact and importance of political lobbying within the meetings industry, the rapid growth of emerging markets plus association meetings forecasts for 2009.
IMEX welcomes innovative and relevant research proposals from partner organisations who are invited to contact Marketing and Operations Director, Carina Bauer, with a brief outline – CBauer@imex-frankfurt.com.
www.imex-frankfurt.com/dataexchange.html
Creative and practical solutions at the Tech Tap
The Tech Tap 2009 will provide a quick and easy technology update for meeting planners at the show. Supported and co-ordinated by the Meeting Support Institute the Tech Tap showcases the most innovative technology solutions for the industry including both creative and practical solutions for planning and promoting meetings, presenting, educating and networking.
Maarten Vanneste, author of ‘Meeting Architecture’, will be on hand to discuss solutions for your business, and Meeting Support Institute staff will be available to guide you through the products and services presented.
www.imex-frankfurt.com/techtap.html
Briefing interview
Briefing caught up with Brenda Anderson at the Site conference in Montreux in December.
Briefing: Like IMEX, Site conducts regular research on industry trends. What does your research reveal about incentive trends over the next five years? Brenda: Based on the economic volatility of recent months it wouldn’t be prudent to look forward more than the next year. In our last webinar at the conference, 73% of respondents indicated that they have experienced cancellations for 2009. Right now we are witnessing a fear based, knee jerk reaction in the marketplace particularly around the perceived value of motivational events. The irony is that properly implemented motivational programmes are the solution to an economy that is contracting and will deliver business growth and results. Therefore, this is not the time to be cutting back. Briefing: What’s your advice to planners about how to navigate and plan ahead given the current market outlook? Brenda: From our industry’s perspective, take a look at your mix of business sectors and try to be as nimble and diverse as possible. The financial services and automotive industry have been hit hard. Pharma and IT are still booking solid business for ’09. If you are passive and hope that the market volatility disappears, you will be left behind. Create a plan to meet with your suppliers and partners to talk about ways to creatively meet their needs. Identify what success looks like and how to prove the ROI of each phase of the programme. It has been a sellers market for so long so take advantage of that shifting trend - without alienating your partners. |
|
“take a look at your mix of business sectors and try to be as nimble and diverse as possible”
Briefing: You’ve spoken a lot recently about the war on talent and the constant need for Site members to recruit and retain good people. How are your members reacting to this challenge?
Brenda: It’s important for brands, not just Site members during these times to retain and motivate great people. With unemployment on the rise, turn over is less likely. But in an ever changing global business world the most prized asset remains constant: excellent performance. A motivated, skilled workforce is invaluable to corporations seeking creative ways to unlock human potential. One of the most powerful tools at their disposal is the motivational experience which rewards a job well done and offers a way to grow.
“see the value in the triple bottom line: people, profits and planet”
Briefing: Our most recent research (IMEX Agency Agenda 2008) suggests that incentive travel agencies now find that clients are increasingly aware of the environment and are making certain ‘green’ demands as standard. What’s your view on green issues and their long-term impact?
Brenda: It is evident that being green is fast becoming a best practice and is fully inculcated in to how we all go to market. IMEX has been a true leader in this area through recognition, education and awareness. Both the corporate and association sectors continue to see the value in the triple bottom line: people, profits and planet. You can no longer achieve one at the expense of the other.
Maximising the ‘IMEX effect’
The line-up for IMEX 2009 will include a host of new exhibitors, together with some names from the past that we are delighted to welcome back. Greater Boston CVB will be back and we also welcome Anchorage for the first time, solidifying the strong US presence. Kenya and MeetingMatrix will also return, while Tiara Hotels, Portugal; ITC Welcom Group, India and Welcome Swiss are all new. Turismo Valencia CVB and TA DMC, Portugal and Spain will both be taking their own stands for the first time.
“new online and live training courses”
New exhibitors will be joining established names, many of whom have already confirmed increases in their stand space, including Croatia; the Czech Tourist Authority; Accor Hotels; Prestige Hotels of the World; Norway; Romania; Texas Tourism, Golden Tulip Hotels, Discovery (Jordan) and Serbia.
In order to help all our exhibitors, whether experienced or novice, we are offering new online and live training courses. These ‘master classes’ will distil all that we know about getting the best return out of IMEX, with step-by-step tips and guidance.
|
Heather Gough, Sales Director, IMEX |
Last year IMEX became the first meetings industry exhibition to use hydroelectric power and the first to
commission fully compostable, recyclable badges. We will again be encouraging any exhibitors that want to “reduce, reuse and recycle” as part of our Green Exhibitor Award programme. Previous winners include Visit London, Malta Tourist Authority and the Sri Lankan Convention Bureau. See www.imex-frankfurt.com/greenexhaward.html for more information.
More buyers in 2009
Following high demand from buyers across the world, we are looking forward to welcoming a number of additional hosted buyer groups to Frankfurt.
“a new instant messaging service will allow buyers to communicate directly with exhibitors”
As well as further increasing the buyers from Europe, new partnerships have been developed with intermediary organisations in Asia, the US, South America and the Middle East, with new groups attending with Marriott Asia and Australia, NH Hoteles Chile, Capella Hotels Russia, Al Rostamani UAE, MCI South America and Strategic Membership Solutions in Australia. We are also delighted that HelmsBriscoe will again be attending with their largest ever number of associates at a tradeshow and a new partnership with George P Johnson will deliver new buyers from the UK.
Our efforts to reduce IMEX’s carbon footprint will also see German buyers travelling exclusively by first class train and an expansion of train options for buyers in neighbouring countries.
All buyers are encouraged to make use of new online services including a new instant messaging service which will allow buyers to communicate directly with exhibitors; a new RFP facility which will allow buyers to attach documents to their appointments as
|
Nikki Williams, Director of Hosted Buyer Programmes, IMEX |
well as enhanced search functionality within the Virtual Exhibition. The changes have been made to ensure that every buyer arrives at IMEX with a tailor-made itinerary full of useful, productive business appointments.
Linked in at Association Day
Association buyers can look forward to a packed programme at Association Day. The panel sessions include ‘how to give your congress delegates the best networking experience’, and ‘communication and PR when times are tough’; plus German sessions focussed on recent changes to European Union law and ‘Philanthropic fundraising – how to win more donors
Internationally recognised futurist, analyst, researcher and humourist, Elliott Masie is now confirmed as a keynote speaker leading the session ‘adult education and the modern meeting’. Masie heads up The MASIE Center think tank and also leads the Learning Consortium, a coalition of 240 Fortune 500 companies that co-operate on the evolution of learning strategies.
Delegates also have over 20 roundtable discussion topics to choose from including how to identify the right sponsors for a conference; how to manage and motivate volunteers; using social networking tools such as Linked In and Facebook and how to manage conflicts.
The event will close with what has become the unofficial opening night party for IMEX – Association Evening – attended by both buyers and exhibitors who are members of the organising trade associations.
More information is available here – www.imex-frankfurt.com/assc-day.html
Live marketing expert leads seminar line-up
The GCB German Convention Bureau will again offer its popular and topical seminars for IMEX visitors in 2009. This year’s programme will feature 16 seminars in total - 15 in German and one in English. Seminar topics, which have been selected for their topicality and long-term relevance include: Small budget - big effect; new catering concepts; CSR in marketing: creativity and innovation and the influence of current trends on live marketing.
An excellent speaker line-up includes Petra Kimmig of Sanofi-Aventis; Joachim Böttcher of the German Society for Creativity and Colja Dams of Vok Dams.
“concrete solutions from real life examples”
This year’s GCB keynote trends seminar will be “The influence of current trends on live-marketing”. Keynote speaker, Colja Dams, Managing Director of Vok Dams, the leading events agency in Germany, will examine and discuss those social trends that particularly influence corporate communications. He will highlight their specific impact on the events sector and outline a set of concrete solutions drawn from real life examples.
Dams’ analysis will address ecology in society and what it means both for live marketing and for companies; the significance of the individual on the internet including interaction with web 2.0 consumers, plus leisure-time as the consumer’s sacred cow. He will also highlight how brands need to embrace the concept, “I feel, therefore I am” and will reveal news from the world of neuro-economics.
 |
Lutz P. Vogt, Managing Director, GCB German Convention Bureau |
"It is essential to be aware of upcoming trends in order to be successful – even if you decide to ignore them. In
uncertain times it is crucial to know your target group and how to address them effectively," says Dams.
The full seminar programme can be viewed at www.imex-frankfurt.de.
Is it a bird, or is it a crane?
It is interesting to note that in a period of global “credit crunch” my recent travels have shown a continuing growth in the development of hotels, convention centres and airport terminals. The crane is surely the world’s most popular bird at the moment and there are no visible signs of the process slowing.
From Reykjavik to Melbourne there is a perceived need to grow opportunities for bringing meetings and incentive businessto destinations - the strong get stronger and the wise, it seems, have no limits. Smarter destinations are already planning to make the most of their assets, concentrating on core business and looking for cautious growth rather than stretching themselves too far.
“for many destinations there has never been such an opportune time for promotion”
It would seem that environmental impacts also continue to play a leading role in meetings industry business acquisition, with a very definite emphasis on social responsibility programmes and eco-friendly facilities. Buyers are now specifically asking destinations to provide information on their environmental stances and making selection decisions based upon the answers.
I suspect that there is still a long way to go before this current financial crisis is resolved but it is heartening to see
|
Paul Flackett, Managing Director, IMEX |
destinations such as Bulgaria, Croatia and Taiwan developing their green credentials as they go forward in search of the meetings and incentive travel business that can have such an impact on their facilities, growth and financial stability. For many destinations there has never been such an opportune time for them to promote themselves and the global cranes only serve to emphasise this.
Future Leaders Forum special edition
Encouraging tomorrow’s leaders
“I can honestly say that the Future Leaders Forum was the best experience that I think any student can have.” Sydney Osmun, MPI student member of the Utah Chapter
The lack of professionals deciding to follow a meeting planning career path is a current hot topic of debate within the industry. Some blame a lack of mentoring and educational opportunities, while others mention the perceived low pay and heavy workload. Another issue is the downturn in the global economy, with established planners having to work harder for the same returns – meaning less time devoted to training and mentoring. At the same time meetings industry employers have high level expectations of entry level meeting planners. All this has added up to a real battle for talent.
Developed and organised by IMEX and MPI, the Future Leaders Forum programme aims to address this issue by encouraging the best and brightest students to enter the meetings and incentive travel industry.
The concept is simple – leading members of the industry are invited to talk about industry trends, their careers and experiences at Future Leaders Forums around the world, encouraging attendees to consider the industry as an exciting, interesting and very worthwhile career. With 80% of Forum graduates saying they are more likely to enter the industry as a result, this objective is being realised.
Typically the Forums give students the opportunity to - hear established meeting planners explain how and why they entered the industry; explore the career opportunities open to them; find out what employers are looking for during interview and selection; discover how to operate in a multicultural community and learn about the key meetings industry trends that will affect them.
19 Forums have taken place since the programme’s launch at IMEX in Frankfurt in 2003. Over 2,250 students have been through the programme and there is an active communications network and mentoring programme for Forum graduates allowing them to keep in touch with peers around the world and receive further career guidance.
Global support for programme
Since its small beginnings at IMEX in Frankfurt in 2003, the IMEX-MPI Future Leaders Forum programme has seen Forums take place in Montreal, Warsaw, Shanghai, Vancouver, Las Vegas, Sao Paulo, Bangkok, Rome and Turkey.
The programme is supported by organisations such as AIESEC, the world’s largest student organisation, who run Forums at their annual conferences, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau and Thailand Incentive and Convention Association who support the Forums that take place at IT&CMA in Bangkok; Warsaw Convention Bureau where Krysztof Celuch, a Future Leaders graduate himself, helps to organise annual Polish Forums; as well as the Green Meeting
Industry Council, BTC Rome and IT&CM Shanghai who all support Forums as part of their annual events.
Recognising that the Future Leaders Forum students represent a pool of potential future talent, Starwood Hotels and Resorts support the Forum at IMEX as part of their graduate programme – Vita Futura (see www.starwoodvitafutura.com).
Wendy Chan, IT&CMA, who plays a huge part in the organisation of the IMEX-MPI-IT&CMA Future Leaders Forum in Thailand, explains her involvement – “supporting the Future Leaders Forum is an ideal way to raise Thailand’s meetings industry service standards”.
“A life-changing experience"
Sydney Osmun attended the IMEX-MPI Future Leaders Forum at MPI’s World Education Congress in Las Vegas in 2008 after being chosen for a student scholarship.
She describes what it meant to her, “The experience was life-changing for me. I've always wanted to be an event planner and the Forum has made my passion skyrocket. I am so eager to jump into the workplace.
When I came home from the Forum I changed my résumé and my new business cards say MPI on them. Everything I learned on how to "sell myself" I did. I decided to get a part-time job with a well-known hotel and I was given the job before anyone else was interviewed. I know that my knowledge of the industry helped me get the job.
I learned so much about how to reach my goal of becoming a respected event planner, including how to design a sustainable event and some great little tips on money saving ideas. For my generation, I know that those tips are going to be key criteria for becoming a successful planner.
I am going to do everything I can to be the best planner I can. I want to be well known in this industry, because I want to give back to future planners. The sky is the limit for me, and some day I just might be the President of MPI. So watch out MPI here I come!!”
Route to dream job
Roger Simons CMP, Manager of Events EMEA, MPI attended the first Forum at IMEX in Frankfurt in 2003. He says, “The Forum really confirmed that this was the industry I wanted to be in. Listening to distinguished speakers from the meetings industry and learning about the opportunities this vibrant sector has to offer the undergraduate energised me.
Of course, alongside the great educational content of the Forum itself, it was fantastic to gain access to the show floor and feel the “buzz” of the industry. The Forum is a fabulous starting point for familiarising yourself with the key players and allowed me to make and cultivate lasting relationships which have been vital in my career and will be important long into my future.”
During his final year at university, Roger used his contacts from the Forum to apply for and successfully acquire a dream job as a meeting planner for ICCA, “I made the connection for my first job through the Future Leaders Forum at IMEX, since then I’ve never looked back! Thanks IMEX!”
“Crucial for entry into industry”
Lara Poething, Abstract Manager, MCI Geneva, graduated from the Future Leaders Forum programme in 2004 when she was an event management student at the University of Applied Sciences in Osnabrück.
“My attendance at the Forum was crucial for my entry into the meetings industry. During the networking reception I had the chance to talk to Jurriaen Sleijster from MCI. The outcome was an internship in the MCI Lyon office two months later. After finishing my thesis on “Procurement processes in the MICE industry”, I joined MCI in Geneva to manage the abstract unit within the MCI Group and have since worked on meetings with between 300 to 13,000 participants.”
Lara returned to the IMEX-MPI Future Leaders Forum in Frankfurt in 2008, this time as a speaker. When commenting on the evolution of the Forum over the years Lara says, “The format of the Forum has changed in a positive way. It is now much more interactive and varied. The most valuable aspect for me still remains the opportunity to get in touch with industry leaders and to create a network of valuable contacts that will be of use during your entire working life. Without the networking reception at the Future Leaders Forum I would never have been given the opportunity to work at MCI Geneva.”
A way to give back
Not only is the IMEX-MPI Future Leaders Forum programme a great platform for students to launch themselves into the meetings industry, it also benefits the mentors and speakers involved.
Hans H. Friis, Executive Director, Brähler ICS Konferenztechnik explains “Having been a hopeful young student myself, not entirely sure which direction to take in my professional life, I saw this (becoming a mentor) as a great opportunity to give back to the community. I just wish we had been fortunate enough to have such a great Forum set up when I was a student.”
Mentor and speaker Jurriaen Sleijster, Executive Vice President, MCI, gives his reasons, “I have been speaking every year since the programme started and I always enjoy standing in front of a group of energetic and inquisitive young people. Their questions keep me grounded in today's reality of what the new generation of employees is looking for, how our industry is perceived and how it compares to other careers.
On many occasions I have had Future Leaders apply for a job within our company and often we have been able to place them. It's a wonderful Forum for attracting real talent and for building a network.”
Mentor Christian Mutschlechner, Director, Vienna Convention Bureau agrees, “Meeting young people means you are sometimes confronted with quite surprising questions; it always gives you a fresh and alternative take on what you do on a daily basis.”
A growing community
Graduates of the Future Leaders programme are encouraged to join the Future Leaders Network, which offers access to mentors, online Facebook and MPI student communities plus information on job opportunities and industry events.
The Network allows graduates to keep in touch with friends and contacts made at the Forum and to share their experiences with graduates of other Future Leaders Forums around the world. Also much appreciated by students is the opportunity to contact industry mentors. Christie Keller, Student, California State University, Chico, USA explains, “Mentoring from current industry professionals is one of the most valuable experiences. They understand my background and have helped me strategise to find a professional internship.”
One very happy intern!
Future Leaders Forum graduate Megan Lehn, explains the events which led to her current internship, “I met Leticia Lucero, San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau Sales Manager, at the MPI’s World Education Congress after the Future Leaders Forum, and asked about internship openings in their office.
When I got back from Las Vegas, I contacted her and she put me in touch with the San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau human resources director. After sending in my résumé I was contacted for an interview and a week later I was offered an internship in Convention Services!
Now I have just found out that I will be the new sales and marketing intern at the W Hotel San Francisco after meeting the General Manager, Michael Pace at a San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau event. I am incredibly excited!"
Megan’s advice for other students is, “Do not be afraid to approach people and ask for their business card. Send thank you cards - it really shows people that you are interested and will go out of your way to show it!”
University challenge
Universities from around the world are being invited to compete against each other in an international challenge that will climax at the Future Leaders Forum at IMEX in Frankfurt. Students will be judged on presentations given at the Forums. The nominated team leader from the winning team in each location will travel, courtesy of the MPI Foundation, to Frankfurt for the final.
Finalists will attend the IMEX gala dinner where the winner will receive the MPI Foundation Student Scholarship Award. The Award includes an invitation to attend an MPI conference in either Singapore, North America, Europe or the Middle East, with flights and accommodation paid for by the MPI Foundation.
Malaysia beckons European Future Leaders
The Future Leaders programme provides a unique opportunity every year for two very lucky European graduates of the Forum at IMEX to complete a three month internship in Malaysia with AOS (Asian Overland Services) Conventions & Events, working both at the head office in Kuala Lumpur and at the Fragipani Resort and Spa on Langkawi.
Past intern, Szilvia Csóka now organises medical congresses and educational courses for the European Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine and Biology. She applied for the internship after her graduation from the University of Applied Sciences in Krems, Austria.
Szilvia says, “The internship clearly showed me the differences between a European and an Asian mentality and way of working. It also helped me to narrow down my fields of interest, so that when back in Austria, I had a clear idea of which jobs I would like to apply for. In Malaysia I gained experience of congress management and I am now organising medical congresses for up to 1,300.”
Anthony Wong, Group Managing Director, AOS gives his view, “Exposing the students to different best practices and giving them an opportunity to work in the industry and learn from current industry leaders benefits them tremendously.”
“Pinch me, I’m dreaming”
“The Future Leaders Forum and the World Education Congress were those ‘pinch me I am dreaming’ type of moments. I met so many inspirational individuals who have really led the way in their field.”
Lindsay Moss, Association Meeting & Conference Planner, Virginia Tech/PCACAC, USA
“Now I am working at N.C.C. Management & Development Co., a venue management company in Thailand. It is because of the Forum that I had the chance to get to know this industry and my experiences enabled me to enter into (my current role in) venue management.”
Nattaanong Tipakrapan, Marketing Executive, N.C.C. Management & Development Co. Ltd, Thailand
“After the Forum in Frankfurt I got my first job at Göteburg Convention Bureau. I also got elected to the Swedish board of MPI as VP Education and Students. My attendance at the Forum changed my career totally.”
Jonas Eklund, Junior Event Manager, Nordic Event, Sweden
“Jon Bradshaw (IMEX Senior Sales Manager and Forum speaker) made my future clear for me. It is half a year after his presentation and I still want to do what he does.”
Paul Majewski, Student, Warsaw Future Leaders Forum
IMEX-MPI Future Leaders Forum Programme 2009
See us at:
• Abu Dhabi, 10 February
• GMIC Conference, Pittsburgh, 23 February
• MPI European Meetings & Events Conference, Turin, 1 March
• COCAL, Costa Rica, 11 March
• MPI Gulf Meetings & Events Conference, Abu Dhabi, 28 March
• Warsaw, 3-4 April
• IT&CM, Shanghai, 15-17 April
• IMEX, Frankfurt, 27-28 May
• MPI World Education Conference, Salt Lake City, 11-14 July
• IT&CMA, Bangkok, 6-8 October
• BTC, Rome, 5-6 November
Internship
Two students from the Frankfurt Forum in May will be invited to take up the Future Leaders Forum internship with AOS Conventions & Events in Malaysia.
Sponsorship
30 European students will be invited to attend the MPI European Meetings & Events Conference and Future Leaders Forum in Turin, and will then be hosted at IMEX in Frankfurt by IMEX. A further 30 North American students will be invited to attend the MPI World Education Conference and Future Leaders Forum in Salt Lake City. Travel and accommodation in Salt Lake City will be sponsored by IMEX.
IMEX also sponsors the PATA Face of the Future Award; AOS Executive Masterclass; the AACB Vin Barron IMEX Prize; plus a challenge at the IMEX-MPI-IT&CMA Forum. All sponsored young professionals are invited to attend IMEX and experience the industry first-hand.
