Saturday, January 29, 2011

The ABC's of Trade Shows and Conferences - C is for Catalyst

C is for Catalyst

Business events can appear to be the same old thing. Different cities, different hotel ball room, but otherwise too similar.

When you experience a spectacular and unique conference, trade show, convention, seminar or other gathering you remember it for a long, long time. Meeting planners and conference organizers all strive to make a lasting impression on attendees, as that means they will come back again, and bring their friends and co-workers. The future of meetings depends on more than more of the same.

In my role as "The Conference Catalyst" I have seen how events can be transformed from routine into meaningful gatherings that have real impact. This often has to do with how engaged the people are in all aspects of the gathering, and how the human engagement creates an atmosphere commonly understood objectives. When everyone is in the same "zone", you can feel the energy.

If the meeting you are attending has not hired a "Chief Engagement Officer" or "Conference Catalyst", that does not mean that the vibe has to be stale. Anyone can be the catalyst that ignites the spark and sets the tone for even just a few people. Buzz from a small group can bleed into the whole conference society.

When you are attending a convention, look for ways to influence the success of other people. Ask them what they need to happen and then actively connect the dots to allow them to find what they seek. Some people want specific learning, others want to network, and some only want to have fun. Their purpose does not matter, what makes a difference is you taking charge to embrace their needs from the event, not just your own.

Anyone can be a catalyst for the greater good. When everyone waits for the event to engage them, they all can wait a long time. Be the person who takes charge and creates positive energy at business events.

Remember, it takes only one leader to influence a sea of followers.

Have A Great Day.

thom

Thom Singer is known as "The Conference Catalyst". He works with meeting planners and conference organizers to set the tone for a meeting. His presentations educate, inspire and motivate attendees to engage deeper in the event and make meaningful connections. http://www.conferencecatalyst.com

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