The 12 Days of Conference - Day One

As we prepare for 2013 I am hosting a series of blog posts called "The 12 Days of Conference".  Each day a different expert from the meeting, convention planning, speaking and hotel industries will add their single best idea on how to create better events or other tips for how to improve the "Conference Attendee Experience" in the new year.

I will kick it off (because it is my blog).

A Speaker Should Do More Than Talk At A Conference

By Thom Singer

Speakers set the tone for meetings, but many speakers are not serving as partners to the event planner before, during and after the event.  If you want those who present at your meeting to be more involved with your community of attendees you should begin by talking with them about the role you want them to play in your event.

Some planners would prefer speakers stay longer than just the hour they are on stage.  If you want your presenters to do more that talk and then dash for the airport you should start the conversation with your expectations for their level of involvement from the very first inquiry.

Too often the only question about availability is only focused on the time slot on the agenda, but if you want them involved creating pre-event videos, participating in your social events / networking breaks / meals, and hosting online chats weeks after the event, these expectations need to be made clear before negotiations about fees and times begin.

I believe a speaker should do more than talk at the conference.  When I attend events (and I have been to many conferences, trade shows, conventions, seminars, etc...) I appreciate the opportunity to interact with the speakers during the happy hours, networking breaks, meals and in the hallways.  Even if I do not speak with them, seeing them engaged as part of the "mini-society" of the conference is a positive.

Content presented from the stage is only a small part of the learning experience that takes place at an event.  The whole human-to-human engagement and ongoing conversations are what help most people retain the messages delivered.  Speakers need to embrace their responsibility in the success ecosystem of the meetings business and be available for more than a stage appearance (of course if you are booking big-time celebrities like Bill Clinton, there are reasons why this level of engagement is not possible).

If a planner desires to have a speaker more involved, in most cases they need to let this be known upfront when they are selecting speakers.  Waiting until the week of the event to invite the speaker to stay for the happy hour will not fly, as speakers have busy schedules and some do not like the social side of a conference in the first place.  Knowing expectations on both sides will eliminate any surprises.

I think speakers should always look for ways to provide extra value, and thus asking the organizer up front of their expectations can also help create the sense of partnership.  There are cases when the planners do not care if the speaker stays, or due to confidentiality issues of the meeting, they do not want the speaker to participate beyond their talk.  When this is the case, everyone needs to know this, too!

Speakers are an uncommon vendor when it comes to the meetings industry, as their product is unique and personal.  They also have can have an unparalleled impact on the vibe of the event -- speakers can create a buzz of excitement or suck the energy out of the room.  Plus what makes "good speaker" can be subjective (think art, some do not like Jackson Pollock, while others do!).  This is not a commodity purchase ... thus you must look beyond the data when selecting the correct partner who will positively impact the whole event.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

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 

www.ConferenceCatalyst.com

Is Sponsoring a Trade Show Worth It????

I was excited to be quoted in the January issue of Success Magazine.  The article (by Emma Johnson on page 30) talks about how to build business by exhibiting at trade shows.

(I would post a link, but while the magazine is available on newsstands, the December issue is still showing as the current issue at the time I write this post.  But below I am not going to quote the article, but instead give more insite into my feelings about getting more from trade shows)

As an active member of the Meetings and Convention Industry, I am more than a speaker.  I have become and advocate for the power of meetings and I work hard to help organizers, attendees and exhibitors find ways to maximize their investment of time and money to participate in conferences, trade shows, conventions, etc...  I firmly believe that trade shows (and other events) are a great way to build your business and brand, but it will never happen by accident.

Many times there is a disconnect between the attendees and the sponsors.  Too many people avoid visiting the trade show booths, which can cause those vendors to complain to the organizers.  This disconnect however is often the fault of the sponsors, as they do not engage in being part of the whole event.  Organizers do all they can to create traffic into the show, but if there is a disconnect in everyone feeling hey are part of the same "min-society", then the event can miss its potential.

Sponsors must do more than buy booth space, they need to be strategics in how they approach the event before, during and after.  People want to connect when they attend a business gathering, and if they are not connecting with you or your team, the blame may lie with how you approach the human side of the conference . Before complaining about the organizers.... you should first do an honest diagnostic of how your people actively execute the booth, keynotes, social events, and other places where people come together for live conversations.

CEO's and VP's of Sales always .... that is ALWAYS... tell me their team is great at trade shows.  Yet when asked about others who exhibit, they always point out a laundry list of mistakes.  The disconnect is that every executive says his people are good, and it is the others who suck.  Do you see what the issue is here.... maybe they are giving too much credit to their own employees!!!

I believe every company could benefit from paying more attention to how they maximize their trade show participation.  Yes, being a sponsor is a great way to build business, but too many companies are not taking advantage of the opportunities they get from being part of the show.

What are you observations about sponsoring trade shows?

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

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 

Cool Things My Friends Do: Paul Grabowski - Named A Top Ranked CMO

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their work and personal lives. 

My friend Paul Grabowski is the CMO for Bracewell & Giuliani LLP.  He was just named to the ExecRank 2012 Top Private CMO's list.

He is #187

The article goes on to list 250 Chief Marketing Officers from companies in a variety of industries (including other law firms), but states that there are over 50,000 CMO's and Senior Marketing Executives in the United States.  Wow, that is a big number, and very cool that Paul was recognized in the top 200.

Congratulations to Paul.  He does a great job and is very worthy of being on this list.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Hey Austin - DONATE NOW to JB and Sandy's "Bikes for Kids"

Last night I ran into my friend JB Hager (and his delightful wife Erin) at a holiday party.  JB is one half of Austin's very popular JB and Sandy Morning Show on Austin's Mix 94.7 radio station.

I have known JB for several years, and always enjoy chatting with him.  He is a nice guy who is always willing to help others.

16 years ago he and his co-host launched a charity project with the idea that every child should experience the joy of getting a brand new bike on Christmas morning. What started as a grass roots effort, has continued to grow. To date, more than one million dollars has been raised and more than 10,000 bikes, locks and helmets have been given to children who would otherwise go without. The children who receive these bikes are nominated by Mix 94.7 listeners.

The program is now called Bikes for Kids, and it is fantastic!!!

There are only 8 days left until their annual bike give-away, and they still need to raise more money to ensure they can provide bikes to all those who are nominated and deserving.

This is a wonderful cause, as many of us remember the magic of getting a new bike.  Any amount donated will help another child receive an amazing gift.

Here is a link to the website where you can make your donation!!!

http://www.mix947.com/pages/14647617.php

Have A Great Day!!

thom singer

Austin and the New Philanthropy. Leadership Austin Engage Breakfast - December 2012

The December 4, 2012 Leadership Austin Engage Breakfast was a sold-out event.  Each month Leadership Austin hosts a conversational conclave to discuss issues important to the Central Texas Community.  While always a great gathering, the topic of "Giving" was one that seemed to resonate with an extra "umph" with those in the audience (not really surprising, as Leadership Austin attracts the type of people with servant's hearts!)

"The New Philanthropy: A Fresh Look at Giving in Central Texas" was a discussion about charitable giving and how companies and individuals can make the right choices on where and how to give back.

The Panelists included:

• Nichole Aston - Central Texas Program Officer, Michael & Susan Dell Foundation
• Dennis Cavner - Co-Founder, Innovation +
• Laurie Loew - Broker and Founder, Give Realty
• Robert Maxwell (Moderator) - Morning Anchor and Reporter, KXAN-TV

All involved, and their organizations, are known in the community for how they go beyond the dollar donations to encourage people to be involved with the charities they support.  They each possess a clear passion create a better culture for giving in the greater Austin area.  The old-school philanthropy was simply writing checks is going away.  Today's leaders take a holistic approach to funding and growth.

Arguably, Austin has more charitable organizations per capata than any other city.  Our entrepreneurial culture lends itself to a variety of philanthropic start-ups appearing each year.  But with so many choices, how do people know where to give? (and are many simply repeating the infrastructure and not maximizing the impact they can have on the greater good.  The trick is to get the human capital involved and connect the smart people to the smart ideas.  The issue is not about more charities, but instead it is unleashing a culture that allow the most effective to thrive.

"Venture Philanthropy" is a new concept, and Austin is well positioned to become the center of "Social Innovation".  Each panelist shared exciting ideas and their success leads the way for a better future for giving.

Dennis Cavner's Innovation + organization works to help organizational maximize their growth beyond a small focus.  Working with  Austin's College Forward, they helped the organization create a 5-year plan that will allow them to reach many more college bound students from lower economic neighborhoods.  Traditionally only 8% of kids in these areas will complete a 4-year degree, where as College Forward students graduate at an 80% rate.  This kind of success needs to have a bigger reach and getting the right people on board can allow successful charities to expand their reach. Identifying the groups that have the ability to make long-term and far reaching results is paramount moving forward.

Nicole Ashton shared how the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation goes beyond just issuing checks, but also work to help organizations learn how to grow their focus and diversify their funding sources. Educating those they serve has become a key component to helping the organizations maximize their money and reach.  They use their resources to assist groups with matching fund or challenge grants to help get more people involved in donating to a major fundraising project.

Laurie Loew founded Give Realty with part of her business plan to be the donation of 25% of her commission to the local charity of the client's choosing.  With 10,000 Realtors in the area the idea was originally to help her stand out in a crowded field.  But giving can become contagious  and her model has grown into her life's mission,   While some question if her company can really do this, she has built it into the plan from the beginning and has now contributed over $200,000 in just a few short years.  She pointed out that if every real estate agent in town did the same thing that number of monies given to the local charities would be between $80 - $100 million in the same time frame.  (WOW).

As Austin continues to grow it is important that we work to help get new residents connected to the philanthropic community. Austin has the potential to become a global example of giving, but this must be more than a few key foundations, organizations and social entrepreneurs.  We all need to find our niche and get connected into the groups we support.  Getting involved with a cause than one feels connected to matters, if they want to be engaged for the long haul.  You do not need to be wealthy to be a giver...., we can all make a difference.  

I walked away from this breakfast meeting inspired, but wanting to know more about how the average person gets involved.  Most people I talk to want to do something, but are not sure what that means.  Big foundations or other organizations lead by successful business leaders get a lot of attention, but we need help average people discover that it is not just the uber-successful that can have an impact on our community.  As a small business owner Ms. Loew has done great things with Give Realty, but her 25% donation number might scare some interested business owners away from doing something similar.  

I say that any giving is good, and we need to bring this conversation to the everyday vernacular (not just an annual breakfast panel discussion!).  As we are attending holiday parties in the next few weeks each of us should engage our friends, family and professionals in conversations about giving back and serving the community.  

What do you think?  

Have A Great Day

thom singer

PS - Five years ago when I became a professional speaker my wife and I created the "Kate Singer Endowment for Cranio-Facial Surgery and Research" at the Dell Children's Medical Foundation.  We donate 5% of all money earned from speaking fees.  While any one donation is small, over several years, coupled with some fundraisers and other donations from my clients... we have created a permanently funded endowment.  We have also created a similar giving structure at Rady Children's Hospital in San Diego (where our daughter Kate had surgery as a baby).  The goal is split the 5% between the two foundations indefinitely.  Over time these small numbers will add up.  The key is to start early and give consistently! 

"Ripple Storm" - NetworkInAustin Meets The Ripple Effect

The NetworkInAustin.com "NetStorming" event will be blended together with Steve Harper's "8-Minute Ripple" at the December NetworkInAustin meeting.  The combined event is being billed as "Ripple Storm", and if you are in Austin, Texas you may want to mark your calendar for Monday, December 10, 2012.

This unique chance to make connections will be held from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM at the Hampton Inn & Suites @ The University/Capitol (1701 Lavaca StreetAustin, TX 78701).

Registration is required.  $20 for NIA Members ($30 at the door).

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Can You Give Me "Free Consulting"?. Oh, But Your Office Is Too Far Away, Can You Come To Me? AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

I received the following email from a friend who has had a successful career as a business consultant and now works for a very cool tech company.  She was seeking my advice on a networking and "helping another person" situation, and I felt the need to share this one here on my blog.  With her permission.. here it is:

Dear Thom,  

There is a man on the periphery of our social circle who is looking for a new job. In my estimation he is a taker. I have given him referrals during his previous job search and my husband has counseled him as well. We have never received anything in return from him or his family.  

He emailed me asking to get together to pick my brain on consulting. I offered to meet him for coffee near my office, which is an hour from where we both live. I see this as the equivalent of your 6am offer strategy and also the best time for me to give him my attention. He responded to my email today suggesting we chat by phone instead as driving an hour each way for coffee is inconvenient for him. Frankly, as a working parent of three, any time I give him is inconvenient.  

However, I feel sorry for him as I have heard from mutual friends that he and his family are in a tough spot financially. I welcome your advise.  

Sincerely,

(name withheld) 

This made me smile as it happens all the time.  Someone reaches out to "pick your brain" (which translates to them wanting "free consulting") and then want you to come to them or meet them half way.  If this person really believed in his soul that her advice would be valuable in helping him launch a consulting practice, he would have happily driven the hour to meet near her office.  I have known of people that have purchased plane tickets and flown across the country for one hour of time with someone who they value.

My guess is this guy wanted to chat over coffee more to show his wife and himself that he is actively working to solve the career situation, not that he felt my friend could really help him take the leap into his own business (Oh, and she could help him.... as she is brilliant and experienced.  She is also a go-getter that would challenge him to do more!).

I offer up a 6 AM or 7 AM time slot at the Starbucks near my home for those who want to "Pick My Brain".  I like meeting people and love to help anyone who seeks advice.  But many tell me I am being unreasonable asking them to drive to my side of town (I live on the far southwest side of Austin, and for those who live north... it can be a hike).  While I will meet half way or set it around another meeting when I am north if there is a clear purpose for my involvement, I get lots of calls that are simply an invitation for the delivery of "free consulting".

If you are going to ask a person for a meeting you should be prepared to drive to any location they will be at any time they are available.  Additionally, look for a way to provide some value in return.  Buying the coffee or lunch is the first step, but seek ways to give something back.  There are lots of creative ways to make your meeting a "give and take".  One very giving person once sent me an iPod (back in the day when those where new) after I did them a very minor favor (made an introduction for them).  This person and I have now become great friends, partially because I discovered her focus on mutually beneficial business relationships!  A bottle of wine, a restaurant gift-card, or some social media love (tweets, FB praise, etc...) can go a long way when someone does you a favor.

Here is my prediction:  My friend will do a phone call with this man (maybe on her commute or on a Saturday morning)... and he will never properly show any appreciation or even acknowledge to their mutual friends how helpful and gracious she was in his time of need.  Its a shame, but that is how it usually goes.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Richard Bagdonas - Operation Turkey

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their work and personal lives. 

Richard Bagdonas is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, family guy and all around good person.  I have known Richard for several years, and I fondly call him "the hugger", as his friendly nature is his calling card.  He greeted me with a big hug the second time I ever met him.

In addition to a successful career in the technology community (he has founded several companies including one of Austin's hottest start-ups - SubtleData), Richard founded Operation Turkey in 2000.  Operation Turkey is an Austin non-profit that feeds and clothes the homeless and less fortunate on Thanksgiving Day.  It all began with one person and some left-overs.  He plated up the extra Thanksgiving feast and gave it to a few homeless people on Austin's 6th Street.

This year in Austin 2,200 volunteers fed over 4,600 in Austin's homeless community.  Think about how cool that is.... 4,600 people with no place to go for the holiday meal were able to eat a traditional Thanksgiving feast.  Wow.

Operation Turkey has grown beyond Austin and even Texas.  Both Dallas and San Marcos have joined in the Operation Turkey goodness and last week volunteers in each city handed out 1,000 meals.  There were 30 other participating cities around the country.

The purpose is to provide a warm meal, clothing and toiletries to the most vulnerable members of our communities.  Richard is most pleased that this program has captured the hearts of so many people in the community.  The Travis County Sheriff's Department, Austin's Police Department, the Department of Health and Human Services and countless other organizations have adopted Operation Turkey.

If you would like to support this cause you can visit the website at www.operationturkey.com.  From there you can donate your time, financial resources or food and clothing donations.

In keeping with the weekly tradition of "Cool Things My Friends Do"... this is really cool that one man's idea can have such impact on many people near and far.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Association and Corporate Staff As The Secret Weapon For Conference Success

If your organization is hosting a conference or trade show you need to ensure that your staff members are fully participating.  If your people are corralled in the back of the room or in a side office, then you are missing out on the real value long-term the event can bring.

Sure, someone has to work the check-in table and take care of other house-keeping issues (and emergencies), but too often the association staff or company employees are not part of the community that is created when we bring people together.  Worse, sometimes the executives or sales staff get to mingle with the attendees, while everyone else has their face pressed to the window looking inward.  Meanwhile others are back at the office and not even present.  These official lines of demarcation can not only alienate team members, but also is opportunity lost to make connections and gain feedback.

Often I see staffs that do not feel "equal" to the VIP's who are attending your event.  It is clear in how they behave that they see themselves as many rungs down the ladder.  Why do they feel this way?  Because that is the message that the management and board are sending.  While wearing matching logoed shirts is a good idea to help attendees identify who works for the organization, those colorful polos and oxfords should not come with a label of second class status.  In fact, it should be just the opposite.

But why should your team be engaged and mingling side by side with your clients and vendors?  Because their participation brings stronger relationships to the overall organization and a boat load of first hand data on how people are experiencing the conference.  People cannot have a relationship with a company or association, they have those feelings for people.  But knowing someone by an email address is not the same as personal interactions.  When your constituency knows your staff personally they feel a stronger connections to the whole group.

And never forget: conference, trade show, convention or seminar is not really as much about the content as many mistakenly believe.  Oh yes, I know ... your "CONTENT IS KING" mantra is ringing in your head... but the reality is that if content were the real purpose then sending a White Paper would be a more cost effective delivery mechanism.

Bringing dozens, hundreds or even thousands of people together for a meeting is expensive.  But that does not mean there is not value (quick, someone tell the US Government this, as they are trying to pass laws that will hurt the $263 Billion industry that employs over 1.7 million people!).  No online webinar can replace the meaningful human-to-human connections and the powerful learning that happens in a face-to-face environment.  People are experiential beings and meetings have the power to anchor their feelings to the experience.

Sending your team into the crowd as an equal participant in the meeting is invaluable.  I have facilitated round-table conversation sessions at major conferences for companies and associations.   Those that have their properly trained staff at all the tables get the most value from these interactive sessions.  Those who do not get their people engaged miss out on the give and take in conversations that lead to meaningful connections.  Do not waste the chance to create bonds.

On occasion a hosting organization will worry if their team is professionally experienced enough to mingle with their members or clients.  YIKES.  You should not hire anyone who cannot converse with your target audience.  Besides, if given the opportunity and the right level of briefing, your team do great.  Do not sell them short!

I witnessed one association who recently had their people embedded in the crowd at one of their annual  conferences and the feedback from the staff and the attendees was all positive.  They had never tried this before because their previous leader had seemingly looked down on the staff.  The new CEO had a different opinion and the results were strong.  Give your people a chance to stand shoulder to shoulder with your VIP's and everyone will benefit from the interactions.

Your staff can be the secret weapon that makes your event spectacular.  Both the experience for all involved and the information you can collect will bring long-term rewards.

Is your staff involved in your event or are they standing off on the side?

Have A Great Day

thom singer

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 

www.ConferenceCatalyst.com

Zig Ziglar 1926 - 2012

I heard online this morning that legendary speaker and author Zig Ziglar has passed away.  It would be difficult to be in the speaking business and not have been inspired by Mr. Ziglar.  I first saw him present in the early 1990s, and the way he touched the audience at the level of their soul was impressive.  It was the great orators like this man that made me want to be a speaker.

I had only met him once, and I am not one who feels worthy of writing a long honorarium about his life, career, etc...  I just did not feel that you can be active in any industry and not take pause when one of the legends passes away.

I take this moment on my blog to tip my hat (if I was wearing a hat) to Zig Ziglar.  Thank you for the information you shared in your books, tapes and live presentations.  And more importantly, thank you for helping shape the speaking industry.

My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

thom singer

*Photo linked from Mr. Ziglar's Facebook page.

Be Thankful For The People In Your Life

For the past few years I have used the Thanksgiving weekend as a trigger to remember those that I am thankful for in my life.

I am not sure where I got the idea, but each year I make a list of the 25 people I am most thankful are along for the ride in my journey. The list includes those who have been influential in my whole life and those that made a specific impact in the current year.  I do not publish this list, as it is not a brag sheet, but instead I use it to contemplate on those who make a difference in my world.  I then try to make sure that I let them know in some way that I appreciate their presence.

There is some poetic license uses in my list making.  I give a single slot to groups, couples and families that together contribute in some ways.  This might include the whole group of people I am actively engaged with in a business organization, or a family (husband, wife and kids, etc....) that are all part of my circle.  Yes, this means the list is bigger than 25 people, but it also allows me to think about the big picture and not worry about the numbers on the list.

My own immediate family gets individual lines, as I like to think of my wife, kids, brothers, parents, etc... with a highlight on the individual joy they bring.

With each person (or group) added to the list I contemplate the how and why I appreciate having them in my life and how they make me a better person. Some reasons are clear, some are broad, but all leave a mark in my heart.

I am thankful for the people in my life.  I know who they are, and I hope that I find ways to give back to their lives.  By taking the time to write down a list it ensures that I am not taking them for granted.

Who is special in your world?

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Melissa Lombard - The 5 Year Project

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their work and personal lives. 

I met Melissa Lombard at the Blogathon ATX event in September 2012.  However, I already knew about her because of an interesting project that she had begun on her blog.  When Melissa moved to Austin earlier this year she started writing about the cool new people she was meeting in town.  Many of the people she had profiled were friends of mine, and the project had crossed my path.  I immediately found it to be a great idea, as connecting with new people in a strange city can be difficult.  By intentionally interviewing people in the community one can quickly get a better feel for the personality of a town, while making new friends along the way.

She formalized her networking coffee chats into what she calls "The 5-Year Project".  Her goal is to meet one new person each week for coffee and blog about what she learns about their life and career.  While a busy life does not allow her to do it every week, she has reached "17 Cups" since June (which is ALMOST every week!!!).  -- Oh, and I was number seventeen.

Melissa is onto something very cool, thus why she featured in this week's "Cool Things My Friends Do" post.  Imagine the treasure that her blog will be at the end of five years.  That will get her to around 250 interviews with an eclectic group of people.  Her unique style of diving into what makes a person "tick" will make the collection of posts into a more that a "Whose Who", but instead a tapestry of personalities that keep Austin weird.

Whether you live in the Central Texas region or not, take the time to scroll through the posts on her blog.  She has had coffee with some very interesting Austinites, and it is a good way to realize who lives in our city.... as we often forget it is not just the people who live and work in our own silos.

If you ever relocate to a new city, I suggest you take this idea and repeat it in your own style.  It is a cool way to get to know folks anywhere.  Kudos to Melissa for a great idea!!

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Facilitated Networking

Conference planners are looking for unique ways to encourage attendee engagement at corporate and association events.  I am seeing more interest in the discovery of distinct ways to cultivate the personality of meetings.

When I first started speaking about the power of business relationships the topic was viewed as a "nice to have" on an agenda.  Now having meaningful networking at a conference, trade show, convention, seminar and other gathering is necessary for an event to be considered a top tier conference attendee experience.  Facilitating connections is a "must have" if an event is to reach its full potential.

While everyone wants to people to engage, nobody wants hokey networking games. There is a desire to help foster connections among attendees (and vendors, too), but there is also a pervasive fear of silly ice breakers that alienate part of the crowd and make senior executives to roll their eyes at the activities.

"The Conference Catalyst" program is not a facilitated ice breaker in the traditional sense.  When included as part of an event I set the tone for the audience interaction. The presentation is more than a keynote or a breakout session, but is weaved into the schedule to encourage people to take the initiative to get beyond the idle chit-chat and have more fun getting to know each other.

Here is a link to an article written by a technology journalist who was present at a conference where I served as the Conference Catalyst:

http://www.informationweek.in/blogs/editorsblog/12-11-12/Relationships_matter_but_meet_at_least_once.aspx

He did a great job of telling the story of what can happen when people at an event are open to making real connections.  (If you have an interest in "The Conference Catalyst", please feel free to give me a call so we can discover if it is the right fit for your event).

The atmosphere for networking at a conference does not happen by accident.  Some still believe that an open bar and a good band will help create the bonds that people seek when they participate in the networking events.  But without the understanding that a conference is a "mini-society", too many people fall into bad habits that stifle the desired human-to-human conversations.

Many sit with co-workers the whole time or pass the breaks tapping on their smart phones.  This does not allow the event's culture to blossom.  Introducing a catalyst that transforms traditional networking into something that is experiential is key to having the event become legendary.

There are many ways to facilitate networking without being hokey (you do not need to hire me!)..... but leaving it all to chance is an invitation for the mundane.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

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 

Cool Things My Friends Do: Bryan Menell Named CEO of SubtleData

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their work and personal lives. 

Bryan Menell has recently taken the reigns as CEO of a new software company in Austin, Texas.  SubtleData was officially launched in August 2011, but has recently come out of the gate with a "bang", garnering a lot of attention in tech funding circles taking the top spot on AngelList for several days.  It's Point of Sales app platform already has over 200 companies building upon its architecture, and I am sure the company will continue to have great results with Bryan in the chief executive officer role.

I have known Bryan since 1978.  Yes, we were 12 years old.  We attended Jr. High and High School together in California.  And while we had over 800 students in our graduating class, we ran in the same circle of friends. Coincidentally we both landed in Austin, Texas in the 1990s, and have remained friends for most of our lives.  In today's transient world (especially before Facebook) it is not always common to have regular contact with childhood friends.

Bryan was always an achiever, and his career has been a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit.  He has founded several companies, including taking Perficient, Inc public in 1999.  He has a natural ability to seek ways of creating and growing new businesses in the fast paced technology world.  He sees opportunity and takes action.

Along with his wife, Angie, he founded the "Austin Tech Happy Hour" five years ago, and is a catalyst that brings people together in the local tech community.  The monthly gathering of those who work in and around the technology community has been a top networking event for over five years (and is still going strong).

Congratulations to Bryan on his new company.  I predict big things from SublteData in the next few years!

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Meetings Industry Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs look for ways to change the world, improve situations, invest in the future and create something new and more progressive.  They seek fresh ideas and retool how businesses runs.  They want to grow something where there had been nothing. Entrepreneurs are who will save the future and lead us out of the economic uncertainty we have all lived through the past few years.

Many businesses are undergoing changes... and it is great to see the entrepreneurial spirit alive and well.  As one who proudly works in and around the "Meetings Industry" I regularly encounter those who host and plan conferences, trade shows, conventions, seminars, etc.... that are excited to try something new in the execution of their gathering. They are focused on creating a conference attendee experience that is unique and meaningful.  The future of the meetings business is unknown, but I assure you there will be changes in the months and years ahead.  The new face of events will come from those who are entrepreneurs at heart.

Dictionary.com defines and entrepreneur as:

“a person who organizes and manages any enterprise, especially a business, usually with considerable initiative and risk.”

In June 2012 Forbes compared this definition to the one from Merriam-Webster:

“one who organizes, manages and assumes the risks of a business or enterprise.”

Do you see the difference?  It is in the subtle use of the word "any".  An entrepreneur does not need to be running a business.... it can be any enterprise.  

I also believe that the spirit of entrepreneurs can live inside larger organizations.  One does not need to be the leader of the company or association to be an entrepreneur.  Sometimes the word intrapreneur is used to describe those inside who have this same drive.  To be a leader does not require the job title as much as it does the desire to create something more and the willingness to take action.

In my travels I see many entrepreneurs and intrepreneurs.  But there are also those who are the exact opposite.  Being timid and fearful of change  and risk is the nemesis of progress.   In industries that are undergoing massive changes those who cling to the old ways are not the ones who will blaze the new trails toward success.  

Both definitions  of what it is to be an "entrepreneur" mention "risk".  A true entrepreneur will have to take chances.   However, risk means there can be bumps in the road, and those who fear any turbulence will cling to their check lists and try to continue to keep the status quo.  

The "Meetings Industry" (and other businesses) are at a crossroads.  Now is the time to celebrate the entrepreneurs in our midst and encourage those who are willing to take risks to identify the new paths.  In addition to taking risks, entrepreneurs need an incentive.  If we do not champion the planners, hoteliers, speakers, caterers, association executives, transportation providers, AV companies, entertainers, airlines, and other meeting service professionals who have the entrepreneurial spirit, then they may not show their faces. 

What are you seeing in the meetings you attend that lead you to believe the future looks bright?  Or what problems are staring us in the face?

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

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 

www.ConferenceCatalyst.com

What I Enjoy About Being A Professional Speaker and Trainer -- EVERYTHING!

In the past several weeks I have been asked the same question by three different people:  "what do you hate about being a speaker?"

The question seemed to center around the parts being a professional speaker and trainer that some may not enjoy - such as travel hassles, going through TSA security, uncertainty of work, parties a ton of strangers, unfamiliar hotels, demanding clients, etc....

It was interesting to me that I could not think of a single thing I hate about being a speaker.  I love all of it.  Seriously, it still thrills me that I can earn a living doing something I enjoy.

Yes, a long line at an airport or a flight snafu is not a joy, but I know it is part of the whole experience and I plan for delays and take it all in stride.  Being away from my wife and kids is not ideal, but when I am not on the road I have more free time than I did when I worked in a corporate job, so there are decent trade offs.

There is nothing in my role that I hate, or even strongly dislike.  I am honored to be part of the meetings and speaking industries and still get excited with each new client and every new project.  I have delivered 56 presentations in 2012 (from small local talks to major international conferences) and I have not had a single experience that would make me question my career choice.

That being said, not every talk goes just how I would want it, and not everyday is filled with birds chirping in sunny skies.  Yet, I smile knowing that this is my job, and I like to believe that the audiences I serve can tell that I am thrilled to be with them each and every time.

I love being a speaker and trainer.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Spirit of NSA Day 2012

As a member of the National Speakers Association and a supporter of the meetings and speaking industries, I wanted to share that November 14th is "Spirit of NSA Day".  The purpose of the day is to honor NSA founder Cavett Robert.  Mr. Robert was famous for believing there is enough business for everyone, and that speakers should help and support each other, rather than always compete.  He believed that we could "build a bigger pie" so that everyone could have a piece.

In a world where many people are self-focused, the most successful speakers that I know are always willing to invest time to assist other speakers who are looking to learn more about how to grow in the business.  I am always surprised when I meet a speaker who is not supportive or open to sharing best practices, as my exposure to the business through NSA has always been one of giving.

As an active board member for both the Austin Chapter and the NSA XY Group I believe I would not have a successful business without my connections in NSA (XY, Austin, and the whole of NSA).  The people with whom I have met and now call my friends have been both an inspiration and my teachers.  Together my closest friends in the organization push each other to achieve more.  Without this web of support it would be a very lonely business.

To all those who are speakers (NSA members and non-members).... I wish you a very happy "Spirit of NSA Day".

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

From the NSA Website:

SPIRIT OF NSA DAY

November 14 has been designated a national day of advocacy for the National Speakers Association
To honor NSA Founder Cavett Robert, CSP, CPAE, and continue NSA’s legacy of sharing and giving, November 14, 2012 will be our 6th Annual Spirit of NSA Day, a national day of advocacy encouraging NSA members to support one another. Every November 14 serves as a reminder to NSA members to:

• Focus on giving back
• Provide genuine support to speaking colleagues
• Take time to connect, help, mentor or refer business to other members without any expectation of reciprocation

Many members already follow Cavett’s role model. However, imagine the strength of spirit and growth of our profession if all of our members focus on unconditionally giving of themselves to our community on this day. The NSA community is known for the concept of removing competition by building a bigger market for all speakers. The strength of NSA is in the education we provide and the strong community we have built. As a member, you are asked to support the Spirit of NSA by introducing colleagues to clients, referring business or mentoring emerging speakers.

Help the legacy continue and build a bigger NSA pie by participating in Spirit of NSA Day on November 14, 2012!

How you can participate in Spirit of NSA Day:

• Provide peer to peer encouragement
• Introduce a colleague to a potential client
• Refer business to a colleague
• Mentor an emerging speaker

My Experience Speaking In Macua, China

I had the honor to be a speaker and "The Conference Catalyst" at the 2012 Dell India IT Executive Summit in Macau, China.  This annual event gathers together India's top CIO's for three days of education and networking.

The conference was fantastic for all in attendance.  The high-level learning included keynote addresses from Dell executives, industry analysts, and international CIO's from companies and governments.  The evening social events were all great fun: a banquet at the Macau Tower, a city tour, and a high energy party which was full of interactive entertainment.

Before the trip I had spent time researching how my message of "Connecting With People in a Social Media Crazy World" could resonate with an audience of executives from India. While I speak regularly to audiences in the US that have international attendees, it was important to me that I understood the Indian business culture. I discovered that we spend a lot of time focusing on differences in our world cultures, but in the end we are more alike than we are different. Subtle variances exist, but having long-term and meaningful business relationships matters everywhere. Belonging to a communities of people is important to everyone.

Actively participating in the summit for three days reminded me that IT executives face a career of constant change.  More than most professionals, the tools for CIO's and their teams are changing almost daily.  New hardware and software options are constantly being released, and employees are demanding the latest and greatest options. When change happens this fast we most need the human-to-human relationships side of business more than ever before. While Dell began as a provider of computers, it is now a leading edge enterprise solutions company. There commitment to helping their customers succeed was evident in all aspects of how they organized the conference -- and they placed a huge emphasis on people!

This event was my 56th presentation of 2012 (including conference keynotes, breakout sessions, and internal corporate training classes).  I have had the pleasure this year to speak at a variety of conferences, trade shows, conventions, seminars, sales meeting, and other internal and external events for companies and associations.  While all have been wonderful, going to China to speak for this gathering of Indian business executives was one of the highlights of my professional speaking career (while I have spoken internationally several times, this was the farthest I had ever traveled).

I had never been to Macau.  The event was held at the Venetian Hotel and Casino, which is the largest hotel in Asia and the largest casino in the world.  It is over three times larger than the Venetian in Las Vegas.  Macau was a Portuguese colony from 1840 (although was a Portuguese trading post from the 1500s) until 1999 when it was returned to China.  Macau, along with Hong Kong, remains a "Special Administrative Region" (SAR) within the People's Republic of China.  This gives it economic freedom from the communist system... and along with much of China, the place is booming!

I look forward to working with more international clients in the future.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

***Here is a link to a write up about the Dell India event on the InformationWeek - India website:  (http://www.informationweek.in/blogs/editorsblog/12-11-12/Relationships_matter_but_meet_at_least_once.aspx)

Cool Things My Friends Do - Patrick Moorhead of Moor Insight Strategy

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their work and personal lives. 

Sometimes you must travel 8200 miles to meet your neighbor.  While speaking (I delivered an Opening Keynote and "The Conference Catalyst" program) at an IT conference in China, one of the other speakers was also from Austin, Texas.  I had never met Patrick Moorhead before landing in Hong Kong, but we continued on our trip to Macau, China together and became fast friends.

Pat is is one of the most cited technology analysts in the world. Moor Insights and Strategy is recognized by clients and cited in the press as experts in the high tech hardware, software, services, technology, and usage models for smartphones, tablets, PCs, living room devices, social media, and games.

He has been recognized in publications like the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Barron’s, Marketwatch, VentureBeat, PCMag, ZDNet, Computerworld, PC World, and many more.  Plus he is a regular contributor to Forbes and Forbes.com.

Pat is a great speaker, too.  His industry insights and natural communication style made him a popular presenter at the event of 200+ CIO's.  I can see why clients bring him all over the world to speak at their technology events!

Although I have only known Pat a few days, he was a natural fit for my "Cool Things My Friend's Do" post this week, as he has created a cool career.  He took an extensive tech marketing background and a love of all things gadget, and coupled them into an advisory that helps enterprise companies tackle problems at the ecosystem intersections inside and between the phone, tablet, computer and consumer appliance markets. Ecosystems include the hardware, software, content, and services required to deliver a customer solution.

For more information on Patrick Moorhead you can see him company website (http://www.moorinsightsstrategy.com/) or read his Forbes blog (http://blogs.forbes.com/patrickmoorhead/).

I look forward to seeing Pat around Austin in the future.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Are Your Customers Experiencing "Delta" or "Cathay Pacific" When Working With You?

Do I need to explain?

Have A Great Day!

thom singer