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DSA Partner MagazineAn Industry Guide to Meetings, Incentives and Recognition

The opportunities are endless.Find yours!

http://AnnualMeeting.dsa.org

May 31 - June 2

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Meetings, Incentives & Recognition | 2

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Table of Contents

Find Your Opportunity in the Solution-Filled Exhibit Hall . . . . .2

Millennials Are Reshaping the Meeting Experience . . . . . . . . . . 4

Top 10 Myths about CVBs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

An Introduction to Incentives and Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

The Ever-Changing Cruise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Technology Trends on Track to Revolution the Meetings Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Meetings, Incentives and Recognition Partners Directory . . . 17

What do you get when you set aside time to participate in professional education? Everything you need to help you and your company succeed, of course! Receive the following benefits when you participate in this year’s Annual Meeting:

1. Expert KnowledgeGo to the experts to gain the information you need . Each workshop you attend will feature presentations by individuals who can provide you with critical information your company needs to stay up-to-date and ahead of the curve, saving your company valuable resources .

2. Birds-Eye ViewThe industry landscape around you won’t stop changing, and your company’s success depends on your ability to be one step ahead of the next challenge . Gain an important perspective on the industry trends that will guide your company .

3. You’ve Got a FriendWho should you call when you need answers to your most pressing questions? Other industry colleagues and suppliers, of course! But you won’t know who can help best if you don’t foster relationships with other members . Make contact with your peers to get “right now” solutions and watch your bottom line go up .

4. Nothing Beats the Inside ScoopThe direct selling industry is known for its incredible sharing environment, and the best way to gain access is by participating in our executive education events . Mingle with the industry’s top leaders and learn, direct from the source, solutions that have worked for other companies, saving them time and money . Chances are, the solutions will do the same for you, too!

5. “What a Great Idea!”You’ll hear those words frequently at DSA’s Annual Meeting because our presenters always provide cutting-edge information that will improve your company’s operations . Get the inspiration for your next great idea at this year’s meeting .

6. Get That “To Go!”Solutions only help when you can recreate them back at the office, but you need to be where you can get them! Meet the people who can introduce you to your next great resource, short-cute or tip and bring home the solutions that will drive your company’s bottom line .

DSA’s new Partner Magazine brings expert insights and information from industry suppliers right to your desk on the subjects that matter most to your business:

3 . Health & Beauty4 . Field Support

5 . Consulting Services 6 . Operational Strategies

Six Benefits of attending DSA’s Annual Meeting

This inaugural edition focuses on Meetings, Incentive and Recognition . Look for the next publication in your mail box soon! Then, make plans to attend this year’s DSA’ Annual Meeting, May 31 – June 2, in San Antonio, Texas to connect with these content contributors, solution-providers and your peers .

1 . Meetings, Incentives & Recognition2 . Technology


Sunday Kick-Off Events, May 31

Welcome Lunch, Noon - 1:15 p.m.Expand your circle of contacts when you break bread with industry leaders, newcomers, Suppliers and others in the exhibit hall for a networking luncheon . This event will give you a great opportunity to make new friends in time for the afternoon’s learning sessions .

Express Learning Sessions, 1:30 - 2:45 p.m.Join direct selling executives for two sets of mini-workshops, each lasting 30 minutes, where you can choose from a variety of subjects being presented by almost 50 valued industry partners . With topics ranging from field recognition and brand expression to marketing and salesforce tools, you’ll walk away from these express learning experiences bursting with creative ideas you can start implementing right away .

Partners Make it Possible Scavenger Hunt, 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.Get ready for a fun networking and learning experience like no other . Participate in a little competition as you mix and mingle with your friends and colleagues during DSA’s Scavenger Hunt . The game will tee up valuable networking conversations and improve your core knowledge . Be among the first to check off all the boxes on your team’s scorecard to win one of our exciting prizes . You’ll be able to share your own experiences, learn from others and stockpile plenty of great tips to help build valuable partnerships for your company .

Grand Opening Reception, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.Whether you’ve been in the exhibit hall all afternoon or have just arrived, this will be a great opportunity to make new friends, catch up with industry peers, eat some great food and have fun! Each year this event is an attendee favorite, so make sure to be there to start your experience off right!

Vendor Solutions

Supplier PartnersYour company relies on outside vendors and consultants to help conceive design and implement the projects that make it successful . Finding the right person or company for the job is crucial . During this year’s Annual Meeting tradeshow you’ll have access to 135 industry vendors who can help you witheverything from overhauling your compensation plan to picking the next incentive trip for your sales leaders . We encourage you to make the most of the tradeshow’s open hours throughout the meeting to have conversations with exhibitors about how their companies can help yours grow .

Happy Hour in the HallAfter a full day of learning on Monday, come unwind back in the exhibit hall before heading out to the River Walk . Enjoy a refreshing beverage and some nibbles while you mingle .

Meeting within the Meeting for PlannersMeeting planners, this content is for you! This year’s experience will feature focused education for meeting and events industry professionals to come together to share their best practices for providing exceptional event experiences for their field members . From behind-the-scenes looks at hotel functions and event production to the technical details involved in contracts and technology, these three days will provide you with the valuable insights you need to plan the best events in the industry! Planners should plan to arrive Saturday afternoon and depart Wednesday to participate in all the program has to offer . Attendance is limited so reserve your spot today!

Find Your Opportunity in the Solution-Filled Exhibit Hall - DSA 2015 Annual Meeting


www.eadion.com


Millennials now outnumber Baby Boomers in the workplace and, in 2020, the workforce will consist primarily of this first generation of native digital users .

While this will undoubtedly spell major changes to the U .S . labor force and work environment, Millennials will also have a significant impact on the way companies conduct meetings and events .

To start, the Millennial mindset will transform the meeting experience over the next decade in a way that can be described as “nonlinear .” In fact, this change has already begun to take hold .

Today, the most progressive events begin with a strong marketing plan with pre-show apps that identify not only the when and where, but also other opportunities for networking, exploration and education . Webcasts and content tune-ins are often provided for those unable to attend meetings in person and, because today’s world is so virtual, those interested in accessing meeting content can often do so by conducting a simple search using keywords or presentation titles .

Tune-ins will shape the meeting experience by allowing participants to choose what information they consume . In the coming years, general sessions will slim down and evolve into multiple mini-sessions and attendance will vary with interest in the material . Pre-event apps and digital event feedback will help meeting hosts shape content on the fly .

In general sessions, there already exists a robust ability for participants to communicate directly with a speaker on stage, which maximizes audience engagement . Companies should nevertheless anticipate the ability to manage multiple conversations in real-time to augment a topic . Trends like Slideshare, second screen and live screen feeds of social media are only the seeds for the next generation of meeting tools .

Today, meetings are already making a steady march out of the general session format into the realm of experientialeducation, motivation and marketing . Extended branding from the front door to the stage builds excitement andprovides recognition . By mixing in digital signage, companies can provide a platform for sharing dynamic content Additionally, companies can measure the attitudes and confidence in their brand through interactive applications that encourage meeting attendees to express their opinions and creativity .

More often, trade shows today incorporate learning centers and entertainment to create a less formal environment for attendees . Digital interaction allows participants to create spontaneous hot-button discussions based on the prevailing feedback . Expanding on that theme, some trade shows even feature hot-button booths that address topics derived from pre-marketing surveys . . Trade shows nevertheless will become less and less formal and will feature neighborhoods of friendly competitors, all collaborating to deliver information both verbally and digitally .

Millennials Are Reshaping the Meeting ExperienceMike IaconoPresident, Iacono Productions

We created 5 pillars which became the thematic centerpiece around which we based our brand building activities.

Teams of Associates used iPads to track theirprogress in a scavenger hunt-like experience.

Aluminum frames with printed banners ofphotographed interiors allowed us to simulatethe actual retail space.


At a recent LensCrafters event, Iacono Productions created a retail space, which served as an environment for an interactive brand-learning module . Guided by participant feedback and client goals, Iacono created five pillars as a centerpiece of the venue lobby . This area, called Marketplace, included interactive toys and iPads . Associates participated in a scavenger hunt training exercise as an extension of their general session experience . The 90-minute program accommodated 500 people who were divided into smaller groups, led by team leaders . The groups moved from one Marketplace pillar to the next, gathering key information in order to complete a puzzle on their iPad . Once all questions were answered, associates were rewarded with branded products .

These emerging tools, which help drive greater engagement and allow participants to craft their personal choices, will soon join the mainstream of meeting communication . Visually, the use of augmented reality, scenic mapping and holographs will garner the attention of an audience that expects the unexpected . These tools will also carry the learning experience outside the general session, taking the meeting to a personal level and individual pace . This will help Millennials create the value and flexibility they demand of future events .

The EyeLove App Kiosk encouraged interaction and branded charging stations enhanced the experience and extended timein the space.

Each pillar represented a learning category. A toy was created to interact with the attendees and make an entertaining and educational experience.

The groups moved from one Marketplace pillar to the next, gathering key information in order to complete a puzzle on their iPad.

The event encouraged Associate interaction and casual networking.

Mike Iacono is President of Iacono Productions, a DSA Partnership Award recipient


11 in

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8.5 inches

Contact:Monica Perez [email protected] 511 6143400 extension 3548Lima Peruwww.yobelscm.biz

Booth # 94YOBEL SCM Jewelry is a division of Yobel SCM and one of the bigger manufacturersof jewelry of Latin America, with more than twenty years in the industry, supplyingfashion jewelry and sterling silver 925 for direct sales companies and retails.

We characterize ourselves as providing high quality products and offering our clientsa personalized service. We are also experts in outsourcing integral services in supplychain management including production, distribution of resources and strategy.

www.yobelscm.biz

mailto:[email protected]


11 in

che

s

8.5 inches

Contact:Monica Perez [email protected] 511 6143400 extension 3548Lima Peruwww.yobelscm.biz

Booth # 94YOBEL SCM Jewelry is a division of Yobel SCM and one of the bigger manufacturersof jewelry of Latin America, with more than twenty years in the industry, supplyingfashion jewelry and sterling silver 925 for direct sales companies and retails.

We characterize ourselves as providing high quality products and offering our clientsa personalized service. We are also experts in outsourcing integral services in supplychain management including production, distribution of resources and strategy.

TOP 10 MYTHS ABOUT CVBs

1FACT: } 50% of all meetings held are 200 people or less on the peak night } CVBs are there for you no matter what size meeting you are planning } Along with hotels, CVBs represent restaurants, printing companies, speakers,

transportation companies, and so much more

MYTH:CVBsareonlyavailabletoassistwithcitywideconventions.

2FACT: } CVB sales personnel are trained to qualify the lead appropriately } They can direct leads to only those industry partners that planners request,

or that fulfill the planner’s requirements

MYTH:CVBswillsendmyleadtoallhotelswithinthecity

3FACT: } While CVBs work hand in hand with National Sales Offices, there are properties

in their area that are not affiliated with a national chain } You may be missing out on some great facilities and other CVB services by not

having information from them during your bid process

MYTH:Iworkwithmynationalsalesoffices,soIdonotneedtouseaCVB

4

FACT: } CVBs have the same online capability as NSOs to share leads on the spot with any hotel or vendor of your choice! Customized software programs allow for quick and accurate turnaround

} CVBs also offer online RFPs

MYTH:WorkingwitharepfirmorNationalSalesOfficeallowsmetosendmyspecstoonepersonandtheycansearchavailabilitythroughoutthecountry.Otherwise,Ihavetocalleachbureaudirect

5FACT: } Many CVBs are not membership based, but are funded through an occupancy

tax assessed in their county } CVBs offer unbiased information about a destination’s services and facilities

MYTH:CVBsareonlygoingtosendmyinformationtohotelsthatpaytobemembers

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7FACT: CVBs assist meeting planners to help build attendance with: } Personalized site inspections } Suggestions of off-site venues } Referrals to area service suppliers, including destination management and

transportation companies } Public relations and collateral support, among other service offerings

MYTH:TheCVBdoesn’tprovideanyservicesformymeeting.IgeteverythingIneedfromthehotelwhereI’mholdingmymeeting.

6FACT: } CVBs are typically publicly-funded, and therefore represent all properties

impartially } Their time for following up an RFP, assembling a choice of convention venues,

or working with a meeting planner are all free } Contacting a CVB costs you nothing and can save you a lot of time and money

MYTH:ACVBislikeatravelagentorconsultantwhowillchargeortakeacommissionfortheirservices

8FACT: } You can link your web site directly with most CVBs } Links are provided free of charge and they provide your meeting attendees

with up to the minute information such as weather, things to do, etc.

MYTH:Ihavetoprovidealltheinformationtomymeetingattendeesonmyownwebsite

9FACT: } CVBs are an incredible resource and provide wonderful recommendations on

those special and unique meeting venues no matter what size

MYTH:IhavetheperceptionthatlargerCVBsoffermoreservicesthansmallerCVBs

10 } CVBs provide not only meeting space but an experience of the destination!

MYTH:CVBscanonlyassistmewithhotelandconventionconferencefacilitiesformymeetings


www.pattersonavenue.com



What is the sweetest sound in the English language?

According to psychologists, for many, the answer to this question is the sound of one’s own name .

Truth be told, recognition can go a long way; however, most people devote hours to their job without ever hearing a word of praise . This happens largely because employers may feel that payment is the reward for good performance, and additional recognition is unnecessary .

Recognition, however, is where direct selling companies shine! Direct selling executives truly understand the need to make people feel important, appreciated, valued and recognized for what they do .

That is why, at any meeting or convention where someone is being recognized, attendees often hear statements such as, “I have worked for my other company for 20 years and yet, through direct selling, this is the first time I have ever been recognized for my accomplishments!” This level of excitement is so important because, time and again in the direct sales channel, companies find that what gets recognized often gets repeated .

Recognition does not always equate to a prize—recognition, in and of itself can be the prize . For example, a kind word, a written note, a text message or inclusion in a newsletter are all effective forms of recognition . Companies should not hesitate to say, “You did a great job,” or “Congratulations! Well done!” A small, verbal form of recognition goes a long way .

Direct selling companies should also set up systems to ensure they are taking every opportunity to offer recognition for the accomplishments of members of the field . The key, however, is to make sure these systems are sustainable as the field grows .

For example, if the company founder were to start writing handwritten notes for each conference attendee, they would set an expectation that attendees will always receive this level of personalized attention . It is, therefore, better for the

company to create expressions of recognition that are as achievable for the first 100 attendees or field leaders as they are for the next 1,000 .

The same is true when it comes to establishing personal contact with the field . If direct selling representatives have always spoken directly with the company founder, they will be dissatisfied if this tradition ends when the company grows . As such, a better approach to establish personal contact with the field might be to designate multiple company contacts to become familiar with a team . Recognition is often about the small things, and a little can go a long way toward establishing positive relationships between the field and company leaders .

Companies must also be careful not to underestimate the power of small actions, such as distributing ribbons or certificates to recognize the many levels of success represented at conferences and events . Many companies use the “power of the ribbon” to acknowledge achievements such as selling, recruiting, developing leaders and promotion to field sales management . These low-cost ribbons attach to name badges and designate the wearer as someone to note .

As for incentives, it is important to remember that a direct selling company’s salesforce consists mostly of “volunteers .” Therefore, a company cannot afford to take their representatives’ involvement for granted, and they cannot assume today’s leading distributors will always be just as engaged in their business as time progresses . Life has a way of distracting even top performers, but incentives can help the company stay in touch with these direct sellers while providing additional reasons to remain active .

An Introduction to Incentives and RecognitionBy Jan GilmorePrincipal of Jan Gilmore & Associates

“ Recognition is often about the small things, and a little can go a long way toward establishing positive relationships between the field and company leaders”


In this way, incentives are tools that provide a compelling reason for direct sellers to do business, encourage the right habits, and lift performance expectations . Incentives also play an important part in helping a company engender excitement and energize the salesforce . But, it is important to recognize that any incentives offered must mesh with the behavior the compensation plan rewards . It is not smart for companies to reward opposing sets of behavior, so companies must do their research .

To start, companies should plan to have a yearly incentive plan and designate a budget upfront . To ensure the incentive plan is a success, the company should set expectations for each incentive and establish a target for the number of achievers recognized . Additionally, it is important for the company to review and analyze results and document what works—and what doesn’t—for future reference .

When devising short-term incentives, companies should establish an outlook for the full year . For example, a company should identify the traditionally low-performance months, such as the “J” months: January, June and July . Similarly, they should identify the strongest sales months year-over-year . Regardless of which months represent a company’s weakest and strongest, some of the most popular short-term incentives to consider include company product giveaways, logo wear and logo items, free event registration, merchandise prizes and technology prizes .

In contrast, for long-range incentives, travel remains a popular incentive . In fact, some direct sellers would consider it a “must-do” to have a trip as part of an annual incentive program . Many newly established companies look forward to planning their first-ever incentive trip, but it is especially important for young companies to use caution when doing so . After all, it is foolish to offer such an expensive prize, without a year’s worth of data upon which to base projections and to identify who should earn the incentive trip .

Companies must remember that the key to a successful program is to make the requirements to earn an incentive trip just the right level of challenging . If the prerequisites to earn an incentive trip are too easy to reach, there will be too many achievers to sustain the trip incentive program or raise the bar for the next trip . However, if the requirements to earn an incentive trip are too challenging, there may be no achievers . In that case, it would be very difficult for the company to

encourage members of the field to work toward earning an incentive trip if they feel doing so is too far out of reach .

Another incentive that has proven a hit with direct selling companies is a rewards program . Annual top achievement awards, presented with great pomp and circumstance, are still among many companies’ top reward programs . But, some direct selling companies have also added a “Reach the Target” award after realizing that recognizing only the top performers can lead some direct selling representatives to feel defeated before they even get started with their business . By establishing a target for all representatives to work toward, companies are able to give more members of the salesforce an opportunity to earn placement in an exclusive group .

Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, companies must recognize that the career plan itself is an ongoing incentive program . Often, however, the career plan is taken for granted because the company does not actively promote its value . Companies should, however, actively highlight the benefits of their career plans—after all, career and compensation plans are some of the most expensive investments a company makes, so companies must work hard to receive the greatest return on this investment .

While incentives and recognition are two critical—and separate—components to a direct selling company’s success, in many ways, the two work hand-in-hand to help build a strong salesforce that can carry a company to long-term growth and success .

Jan Gilmore is the Principal of her own firm Jan Gilmore & Associates


Sell. Recruit. Retain. Reward.

[email protected]

www.buysea.net



There is one constant in the cruise industry: change .

While, for years, cruises have been a go-to option for direct selling companies looking to offer exciting annual incentive programs, ship inaugurals, intriguing ports of call and new on-board options demonstrate how the cruise experience is ever-changing .

Today, each category of cruise lines—from boutique and luxury to mass market and premium—is adding tonnage to meet demand . In Europe, river cruise lines place new ships on the water more than any other small ship category . These lines offer travelers unique views of some of the most extraordinary rivers on the continent .

As river cruise lines see spikes in demand, nearly every luxury line remains on track to add new hardware in the next few years . Seabourn will soon add two 600-passenger mega yachts, while Regent Seven Seas Cruises will introduce the 750-passenger Explorer, which boasts the highest passenger-to-guest ratio afloat . Even more, there is already talk that the 1000-passenger Crystal ship, set to debut in 2018, will be the most opulent passenger ship ever built .

The premium and mass market cruise lines—which include Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Celebrity, Holland America and Norwegian—have raised the bar on innovation . For example, the new Royal Caribbean ships of the Quantum class recently introduced infrared wrist bands, which passen-gers can use instead of the traditional key card . Additionally, the same gadget serves as an identification device, allowing passengers to easily embark and disembark, complete purchases, gain entrance to shows and activities, and more .

Quantum class of ships showcases many other examples of how technology innovation has revolutionized the cruise experience, including a two-story dance hall and robotic bar to the 270-degree lounge with outrageous special effects and live performances .

To make life easier for all who set sail, many cruises today offer WiFi and Internet speeds that rival their counterparts on land . More importantly, price packages on many lines are reasonable - some cruise line promotions even offer guests Internet free of charge .

To top things off, although incentive programs were once limited to four or five nights, today, companies often consider longer excursions to recognize their top performers . Because so many of today’s cruise lines offer a variety of options and experiences, prices are more reasonable and clients are able to stretch their budgets further . Even more, in off-peak months, cruises to Europe are as affordable as their Caribbean counterparts .

Yet another trend sweeping through cruise lines is the offering of health and wellness programs . Nearly every ship today offers special menus with low-fat selections, otherwise known as “spa cuisine,” as well as vegan, gluten-free and diabetic-friendly choices . Fitness centers and spas are common on cruise ships, but many lines go above and beyond, offering BOTOX, non-surgical face lifts, acupuncture, teeth-whitening and cellulite reduction in addition to the usual treatments .

Beyond the latest cruise destinations and on-board offerings, there is yet another trend impacting direct selling companies looking to set sail with new incentive programs: chartering .

As direct selling companies become increasingly diverse, it is important for incentive-planners to ensure their programs appeal to sellers of all ages and backgrounds . One thing companies should consider is the fact that many of their direct sellers may not have much experience with traveling —and, in some cases, incentive recipients may not speak English as a first language .

As such, companies looking to take the extra step to make sure their incentive programs are inclusive and enjoyable for all should consider chartering a ship . Many companies have followed this trend recently, in part, because chartering a ship allows the client to make announcements in multiple languages and employ cruise staff who can communicate with travelers and tailor other on-board services to suit a group’s interests or needs .

Nevertheless, it is clear that the cruise industry is ever evolv-ing . In fact, perhaps more than ever before, cruise lines offer direct selling companies a chance to pursue new destinations without breaking the bank—all while ensuring that incen-tive-earners enjoy an experience they will never forget .

The Ever-Changing Cruise: Cruise Liners Adopt Technology Innovation, Wellness Programs to Meet DemandBy Shari WallackPresident, Buy the Sea

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While technology trends and highly customizable conference packages allow direct selling companies the opportunity to craft unique meeting experiences at nearly any destination imaginable, many of today’s meeting planners are challenged to incorporate the “latest and greatest” offerings without breaking the bank .

In fact, a recent report by Successful Meetings, an online publication specializing in meeting, convention, incentive and trade show news, projects that most North American and European companies will see little or no expansion of their meetings budget in 2015 . As such, meetings professionals are challenged to plan for—and prove— the return on investment for their company’s events .

But, for many, taking the meeting experience to the next level means incorporating high-value technology to educate attendees about events planned, connect attendees with one another, and engage those unable to attend the event in-person online .

“Digital technology is an integral part of how we engage, mobilize and connect consultants at all Rodan + Fields events,” said Charlie Kirschner, National Director, Field Learning & Development, for the company . “From social media and online jam-sessions to e-commerce and real-time surveying, technology allows us to create more impactful experiences at events ranging from business presentations for a few dozen people to our annual convention with thousands of consultants .”

If executed properly, companies can see tremendous returns on investment in mobile apps, live web streams, or even social media feeds built around a given event . On the most basic level, mobile apps can help companies reduce printing costs for programs, guides and maps . Additionally, companies looking to conduct onsite polls—such as those used for awards ceremonies—can look to mobile tools as a replacement for printed ballots and manual vote tallying .

And, for companies looking to overcome barriers for participation, mobile and online translation tools can make a meeting ever more accessible to those whose preferred language may not be English—not just onsite, but online as well .

After all, meetings attendees are more tuned in on social media than in years passed .

But, while technology provides the platforms on which to engage audience members and “virtual participants” in real time, companies must not overlook the basics of technology and how they factor into the overall event experience .

“We rely heavily on technology at our events especially for stage production,” said Shawn McLelland, Vice President, Studios & Events for USANA . “Several years ago, we partnered with one of our vendors to design a fully video-mapped stage set, which allowed us to break the boundaries of traditional ‘screen’ presentations . It also allowed us to create an immersive environment for recognition segments, giving us more real estate for recognition photos, lifestyle montages and larger-than-life tributes to our top leaders .”

And, all signs indicate that the meeting experience of the future will be centered largely on greater interaction .

According to Corbin Ball Associates, a consulting firm specializing in meetings technology, Bluetooth low-energy (BLE) technology and BLE applications, such as Apple’s iBeacon, will present planners and meeting attendees with new options for interaction . BLE technology would allow meeting planners the opportunity to provide location-based information and services in ways traditional GPS cannot compare . In a nutshell, such technology could transform the way meeting attendees collect information from trade shows and exhibitor halls, and could make traditional event maps a figment of the past . ▶

Technology Trends on Track to Revolutionize the Meeting ExperienceBy Alyssa WoliceFreelance Writer

“ In my mind, the most important component to a successful meeting is having great partners—partners in the industry, partners at the venue, and partners behind the scenes.” Leslie Dunn Vice President, Events and Recognition 4Life


While much of this technology remains in early testing phases, it makes it easy for meeting strategists to see how advancements coming down the pike could drastically change the meeting and conference experience . Already, meeting planners are finding new ways to transform “attendees” into “participants,” or even “contributors .”

“I’m particularly interested in the recent digital trend,” said Lesley Dunn, Vice President, Events and Recognition, for 4Life . “This has enhanced 4Life meetings in several ways—greater possibilities for presentations, positive promotion through social media, and the real-time sharing of events . Today, ‘meetings’ can also mean a Google chat, FaceTime, Skype, and more . We can connect anywhere, anytime, and with anyone . This has extended the reach for businesses in impressive ways .”

Although technology may boost engagement and bridge the divide between in-person and virtual attendees, companies must remember that event location and environment can still make all the difference . Often, attendees may call to mind their surroundings or accommodations when gauging whether or not an event met their expectations—and this can pose a challenge for companies with constrained meetings budgets or packed calendars .

“One of the biggest challenges we are facing is that the market has turned back into being a seller’s market,” said Lisa Krass, Director, Events & Corporate Relations for ACN, Inc . “Due to the large venues that we need, and the amount of hotel rooms in a city that are needed, we are finding that dates are harder to come by . Many groups are booking so much further in advance and we are now forced to do the same if we want the city and dates of our preference .”

Nevertheless, at the end of the day, meeting planners must not lose sight of the fact that attention to detail and efficient incorporation of technology trends can help event participants get the most from their experience .

“Attendees will long remember what they ‘felt’ at an event more than what they heard or saw,” Shawn said . “Generating the right feeling at an event has a lot to do with content, but it also is heavily dependent on the smallest of details at every moment; the music, the visuals, the emotional mapping of a session, the length of lines and waiting times, the attitudes of event staff and their engagement with attendees, volume levels, climate control, and so forth . All of it combines to

either enhance or deter from the feelings you are trying to leave your attendees with .”

Recognizing this, USANA aims to make sure its event participants feel as though they are a part of something bigger than themselves, Shawn noted .

“We want them to feel appreciated and recognized for their efforts,” he said . “Likewise, we want them to feel strengthened and supported by thousands of like-minded individuals engaged in a common cause . And, we want them to have a belief in the industry, company and products, and a desire to change and increase their commitment to their health and to their business .”

While much of this success stems from a company’s meetings team, the team must not work alone . Instead, it is important for planners to develop close partnerships in preparation for an event, Lesley said .

“In my mind, the most important component to a successful meeting is having great partners—partners in the industry, partners at the venue, and partners behind the scenes,” she said . “Teamwork is a proven component for success . Communication and organization are also critical from start to finish . With a start and finish in mind that is clearly communicated and properly planned, you are much more likely to realize a successful outcome .”

The sight, the sounds, the spectacle, all the

sensations they will remember well beyond

the trip home. All those

details you didn’t have to worry about, stress

over, check, and re-check. Or forget. Details

are our specialty and its what we’ve been

doing for over 20 years.

You have to have it, to create it.

ZOOM7.COM

THE EXPERIENCE DELIVERED

The sight, the sounds, the spectacle, all the

sensations they will remember well beyond

the trip home. All those

details you didn’t have to worry about, stress

over, check, and re-check. Or forget. Details

are our specialty and its what we’ve been

doing for over 20 years.

You have to have it, to create it.

ZOOM7.COM

THE EXPERIENCE DELIVERED

www.zoom7.com


Meetings, Incentives and Recognition Partners Directory

Buy The SeaCompany Contact: Shari WallackCompany Description: Buy The Sea helps dozens of DSA companies find the perfect destinations, ships and resorts for their incentive travel programs . There is NO cost to use our sourcing and program operations services . Let our industry experts show you how to maximize the budget and produce your most successful recognition program ever! It’s never been this easy . With Buy The Sea, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain!

Disney Resort DestinationsCompany Contact: Patti Long [email protected] #: 4Great stories aren’t just told … they’re experienced . Let Disney Destinations transform your next incentive or meeting into a more meaningful, inspiring and productive experience . Discover the one-of-a-kind programs and resources only available from the global leader in imagination and creativity, with a rich legacy of innovative content and exceptional storytelling . Create an unforgettable experience for your attendees at one of our destinations in Florida, California Hawai‘i, Hong Kong and Paris .

E.A. Dion, Inc.Company Contact: Paul E. PrendergastBooth #: 15Company Description: E .A . Dion, Inc . is the premier supplier of Award, Incentive and Special Event Recognition jewelry for DSA Member companies . Dion’s creative design capabilities, unparalleled quality and exceptional service are the foundation of our extended partnership with close to 40% of all DSA member companies regardless of size or tenure . Call today at 800-445-1007 for a distributor near you .

Iacono ProductionsCompany Contact: Leslie BlyeBooth #: 105Company Description: It is our ability to execute a total creative event production focused on the attendee experience that differentiates Iacono Productions . As a full service agency, our comprehensive capabilities include strategy, design, media, fabrication, printing, staging and audio/video technology . One team of specialists working together with your staff deliver a cohesive theme and message from venue entrance to the highlights video . Our combination of talent, experience and cutting-edge technology guarantees that your message resonates with your audience .

Patterson Avenue ProductionsCompany Contact: Keith DixonCompany Description: Patterson Avenue Productions is a full-service television and event production company providing “turnkey” services to clients both domestically and internationally . We assemble teams tailored to serve the specific needs of our clients . Teams that evolve from the creative and logistical partnerships we’ve forged over time . From concept

to completion we “sweat the details” so that you don’t have to . Contact us today to see how our expertise can help build and develop your brand . Television-Events-Consulting . “It’s all in the Details!”

Royal Caribbean InternationalCompany Contact: Lori CassidyCompany Description: Looking for the best event destination? Imagine a meeting destination that’s truly unlike any other . With the best amenities of an all-inclusive resort and the convenience of a walkable city and with state of the art conference spaces, Royal Caribbean is the choice for event planners looking to give their attendees the best of business and pleasure .

Solomon GroupCompany Contact: Gary SolomonBooth #: 126Company Description: Solomon Group offers the full suite of event design and production services under one roof, including show management, scenic fabrication, large-format printing and more . With our vast inventory of professional lighting, video screens, projection units, audio systems and LED displays, we have the technology to help turn virtually any space into an engaging environment, painted with light, sound and moving imagery . Solomon Group can help transform your next event into an unforgettable experience for your distributors .

Visit Buffalo NiagaraCompany Contact: Linda D’AgostinoBooth #: 98Company Description: Buffalo’s flexible meeting space, exceptional planning services, accessibility, value and walkable downtown will make your next meeting or convention as popular as our world-famous chicken wings . There has never been a better time to meet in Buffalo . The city has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years with over $1 billion in new investment, including a slate of new and renovated meeting facilities, hotels and restaurants .

YOBEL SCM COSTUME JEWELRY S.A.Company Contact: Monica PerezBooth #: 94Company Description: YOBEL SCM Jewelry is a division of Yobel SCM and one of the bigger manufacturers of jewelry of Latin America, with more than twenty years in the market, supplying fashion jewelry and sterling silver 925 for direct sales companies and retails . We characterize ourselves as providing high quality products and offering our clients a personalized service . We are also experts in outsourcing integral services in supply chain management including production, distribution of resources and strategy .

ZOOM7 Meetings and EventsCompany Contact: Daniella JudgeBooth #: 121Company Description: Your brand has a message and a story to tell . ZOOM7 has years of experience in transforming our client’s story into an unforgettable event that delights the eye, builds the excitement and delivers that WOW factor every time!

CELEBRATING TWENTY FOUR YEARSOF TRUSTED SERVICE TO THE DSA!COME WISH US HAPPY BIRTHDAY AT BOOTH 105!

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