Experts & Opinions
Oct 25, 2013
Like many in our industry, I spend more time on the road than in the office, and I know the importance of working seamlessly regardless of my physical location. Recently, I read an article in Forbes that gave some really great advice on what every business traveler should carry. The writer shares that business travelers are bringing their own gear to be self-sufficient wherever they go. To stay on top of this technology, here are five things that business travelers should never be without according to Forbes:
1. Personal Wifi- Hotels and airports are famous for gouging visitors on internet… more
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Oct 25, 2013
Nervous that perhaps your trade show program suffers from Attention Deficit Disorder? Well, it’s certainly possible.
Usually it’s sales and marketing people like us who manage our companies’ trade shows, and we’re notorious for having more than a touch of A.D.D. Marketing people need that endless curiosity that sparks creative marketing ideas, and sales people are known for doing whatever it takes to get the sale – and then going on to the next sale before all the details are nailed down on the first one.
However, A.D.D creates a distinct downside to your trade… more
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Oct 19, 2013
To: Event Manager
From: The Boss
Subject: Need Your Support.
I need you to support company wide inventory audit in (city) the week of (worst possible week for you – you’re preparing for your biggest show). Our group has to send someone to help staff it, and even though it has nothing to do with marketing, I picked you because you’re so good with numbers. Not sure who your roommate will be, but someone will contact you. Please read and adhere to attached list of Dos and Don’ts.
Thanks,
The Boss
P.S. Have a great audit!
If you received this email how would you respond? How do people… more
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Oct 12, 2013
Tradeshow organizers are generally an easy-going group of folks. They are jovial, fun and even occasionally well-mannered. The massive exception here is when you are talking to them about things like attendance, labor rules, revenue and … I am whispering here … keeping rooms in the block. Yes, that latter topic will typically unleash a diatribe on human behavior theory and the decline of Western civilization. It’s like herding cats, they will tell you.
The good news is that attendee behavior can be influenced when it comes to keeping rooms in the block. I have found that… more
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Oct 12, 2013
I am so excited about my lecture on augmented reality (AR) at EventTech in Las Vegas. While preparing, I found some data on AR, which provided some great info, but I wanted to take that a bit further, and analyze the ‘so what’.
Smartphone and tablet sales will increase to 1.2 billion this year, with a prediction of over 2 billion by 2015. Analysis: AR uses smartphones and tablets as the device medium. With more smartphones and tablets showing up on your show floor, you have a much larger pool of attendees who can tap into AR. And if they can tap into that… more
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Oct 05, 2013
Attention all exhibitors, I feel your frustration and completely get it now. Working at GES has really opened my eyes to how much time, effort, blood, sweat and tears go into exhibiting at a show or in some cases, (for most of you reading this), multiple shows a year. Do you ever feel like our efforts go unrecognized?
Welp, I must say that as anyone in marketing, event planning and in our industry in general knows, this is our reality. When the “A” leads are coming in, lots of praise is going out, but other than that, zilch, zero and a big ol’ nada. What if I told you there… more
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Oct 05, 2013
I’ve heard folks in their 20’s and 30’s complain about how exhausted they are from staffing an exhibit. I doubt very much that Walt Bentson, a retired IBM division vice-president, would complain or, for that matter, even be exhausted from booth duty.
Some months ago I wrote a couple of posts, one of which made the case for staffing your exhibit with “seasoned” personnel, the other advocating the use of “yoots”, as Cousin Vinnie would refer to a younger generation. Which is more valuable on the showfloor, the supposed skill and wisdom of we elders,… more
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Sep 27, 2013
One of the most important things you can do for your exhibitors is to add value, right? Adding value for your exhibitors can also mean a better bottom line and a healthier environment at the same time. I have written before about how tradeshows are second only to the construction industry in producing waste, but there is always room for improvement. The good news is that we can all take steps to create greener tradeshows for our attendees and they will thank you for it and even pay a little extra for the privilege of doing so.
Say It with Eco-Signage
Offer to create signage with eco-… more
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Sep 27, 2013
In the fast-paced environment of planning and executing an event, any number of crises can arise, from a natural disaster to equipment failure or an interruption in internet connectivity.
With B2B exhibitions representing 39.2 percent of B2B marketing budgets in 2011,* the largest amount of any other marketing channel, the need to secure an event and the event’s data for your attendees is crucial. (*Source: CEIR: The Spend Decision: Analyzing How Exhibits Fit Into The Overall Marketing Budget.)
Here are 6 steps you can take to minimize the risk at your next event:
1. … more
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Sep 21, 2013
Sales are the lifeblood of our industry. Whether it’s selling booths and sponsorships, or selling the value of the show to attendees, we are always selling or being sold to. I started my career in sales, have hired and managed many salespeople and, always with deep regret, have had to let a few go on to other opportunities. Today, I am still selling -- and loving it. Most of you are doing the same in some form or another.
I have a dear friend in the business who I realized is simply the best salesperson I know. Here's why...
She… more
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Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here.
New Wave Experiences
Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024.
Enhanced Technology
Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space.
Refreshing New Design & Fine Art
The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights.
Sustainable Spectacles
Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles.
The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.