Stuart Butler’s Post

My first PCMA EduCon is in the books!! After some time to reflect on my experience, this event was truly inspiring on so many different levels. The education sessions were thought provoking and addressed varying avenues within the event industry. I wanted to share some of my key takeaways below: - Sponsorships Driving Innovation 💡 : Sponsorships were highlighted as key drivers of innovation in event planning. Leveraging sponsorship opportunities not only enhances the overall event, but also fosters growth in the event through collaborative partnerships that elevate attendee experiences. Remember this: Sponsorships = ROI. Proven data and past experiences that you can quantify the ROI is key, and your sponsors will leap at the opportunities when backed by data. - Enhancing Event Experiences 🕺 : The focus on attendee & exhibitor experience was showcased from day one. From interactive networking activities, technologies, personalized touches, and creating memorable and impactful experiences was central to the event. This emphasis ensures events are engaging and leave a lasting impression leaving your attendees walking away with a smile on their face and positive thoughts racing through their heads. - The Event Industry Community is Strong 💪 : The power of community drives our industry growth. Through thought sessions and networking opportunities, these all helped strengthen connections. Events bring people together and a strong community can move mountains! - AI 🛸 : This is, and will remain a hot topic because of the power behind it to enhance our overall lives. From smart event solutions to data analytics, AI improves operational efficiencies and enhances personalization, ultimately elevating the overall event experience. Learn it, or be left behind. - Maximizing ROI 💵 : Discussions around ROI emphasized the importance of measurable outcomes and strategic planning for your Sponsors, Exhibitors and Attendees. Implementing metrics-driven strategies ensures that investments in events yield measurable results, from lead generation to increased engagement both of which enhances your overall brand visibility. - Empowering Young Talent 🙋♂️ : I am truly inspired to see the talent that is the future of the events industry. The talent and the enthusiasm that our younger generation displays inspires me (as a young professional) and strengthens my overall outlook for the industry as whole. Mentorship and professional development initiatives are crucial for cultivating the next generation of leaders and innovators. PCMA did it right! Further reaffirming the industry's commitment to growth through education, innovation, and community collaboration. I look forward to applying these insights to progress in my work, sharing with our clients, and contributing to the continued evolution of event planning. Cheers to a bright future! #PCMAEC #EventPlanning #Innovation #CommunityBuilding #AI #ROI #YoungTalent

Just realized the power of a thriving event community, and it's a game-changer. Can you relate, fellow event organizers? 🤔 ➡️I've been struggling to foster a sense of belonging and connection among my attendees for far too long. ❓Is this a common challenge? You better believe it. 🙌 ➡️It's a harsh reality: Low retention and advocacy rates ruin many events due to a lack of strong community. ❓What does a Dancing Economist do in this scenario? ❤️I choose to prioritize building lasting relationships with my attendees and empowering them to become active community members. Here's what I did: ➡️ I created exclusive content, experiences, and networking opportunities for my community members ✨The engagement and loyalty skyrocketed, and I knew I was onto something ✨I might have raised some eyebrows with my unconventional approach, but the results spoke for themselves ✨ I even discovered the importance of self-care and work-life balance to avoid burnout Then it was time to level up. No looking back. 🤗Some late nights researching event community management tools, a few trial runs, and we were off to the races (I also invested in my own well-being because a burnt-out event organizer can't build a thriving community) So do not miss a chance to: → Opportunities to create unforgettable event experiences → Chances to gather valuable feedback and insights from your attendees → Moments to celebrate the successes and milestones of your event community → Crazy ideas that could potentially revolutionize the event industry → Important connection with a fellow event professional → Brainstorming sessionz with your team to enhance your community strategy → Late-night grinds to ensure your community platform was running smoothly ➡️If you're struggling to build a strong and engaged event community, I've been there. ✅It's a challenge, but the rewards are immeasurable. ✅ Zero regrets for making community a top priority. ✅No one said it would be easy, but it's so worth it. And I get to do this every single day, Plus I create unforgettable experiences for our attendees. This is the power and the promise of event community building. And it's TRULY possible to foster a thriving community that will take your events to new heights. 🚀 P.S. - Please repost if you're ready to prioritize community building and transform your events. Let's dance our way to success! 💃 The Dancing Economist #EventCommunity #CommunityBuilding #WorkLifeBalance #TheDancingEconomist

Diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords; they represent a powerful approach to creating enriching event experiences. A McKinsey & Company study revealed that companies with the most diverse workforces were 35% more likely to outperform their peers on profitability. The same principles apply to events. By prioritizing DEI, you unlock a multitude of benefits: Reaching a Wider Audience: A diverse and inclusive event attracts attendees from various backgrounds, fostering a richer exchange of ideas and perspectives. Imagine the potential for innovation when attendees with diverse experiences come together! Enhanced Brand Reputation: Demonstrating a commitment to DEI showcases your organization's social responsibility and attracts sponsors and attendees who value these principles. This can be a significant competitive advantage in today's conscious consumer marketplace. Increased Innovation: Diverse teams bring a wider range of experiences and ideas, leading to more creative and innovative event concepts. Improved Problem-Solving: Diverse perspectives can help identify issues and lead to more effective solutions for event challenges. Imagine tackling event planning hurdles with a team that reflects the diverse needs of your audience! Book a Free Event Strategy Session Today With Our Experts https://lnkd.in/etpHusgM #DEI #DiversityEquity #DiversityEquityInclusion #DEIB #DiversityEquityInclusionBelonging #Accessibility #AccessibilityMatters #DisabilityAwareness https://lnkd.in/etBbenJi

I was recently reflecting with a dear friend on the last 40 combined years of what we have collectively learned from an industry we have closely worked in. We have seen this space give birth to many businesses and create prodigies that have started their entrepreneurial careers. The industry has also created a positive economic impact on many nations and regions, supported the agendas and programs of many leaders, and shared visions, values, and voices across continents and platforms. It has become a conduit and catalyst for the evolution of times, trends, and movements, giving birth to campaigns and initiatives that drive projects and capital across hubs in dynamic centers, humanizing cities, and building narratives that empower nations and people equally. The history of events and the event industry is a tapestry woven from social, cultural, economic, and technological threads. Events in some form have been around since ancient times; humans have always gathered to celebrate, trade, or discuss important matters. The term "event" in the context of organized gatherings likely stems from the Latin word "eventus," which means an occurrence or issue. The formal event industry, however, began to take shape alongside the rise of corporate and professional spheres in the 19th and 20th centuries. The M.I.C.E (Meetings,Incentives, Conferences,and Exhibitions) industry's evolution correlates with developments in business, travel,and hospitality. The term gained popularity in the 20th century as these activities became fundamental to business growth and international relations. The event industry has seen numerous trends over time,from the opulence of Victorian banquets to digital conferences in the 21st century. Disruption has come in the form of technology—online ticketing,virtual and augmented reality experiences, data analytics for audience engagement, and personalized events. Today's event industry is learning to be more flexible, environmentally conscious, and inclusive. It seeks innovation in creating hybrid events (combining in-person and virtual experiences), leveraging data to enhance personalization, and exploring new technologies to engage attendees. When we look at the pioneers of the industry, there isn't a single pioneer; rather, it has been shaped by numerous entrepreneurs, inventors, and leaders who have understood the value of gathering people together. As the industry moves forward, pioneers today are those who find creative solutions to the challenges of engaging audiences in an increasingly digital world. Moving forward, where do you see the industry headed? What are the hottest topics and trends we see today and coming in the near future? What will disrupt the already over competitive and saturated industry? Are there organizations that we can learn from and that set a benchmark for the industry? I encourage you to share your thoughts and ideas in the comments. #EventIndustry #MICE #BusinessEvents #Conferences #Exhibitions 🌐

Get ready to take your events to a whole new level! Are you tired of the same old events with little engagement and no lasting connections? Then you're in luck because we've teamed up with event expert, Liz Lathan, to uncover the top 10 engagement trends that will shape the event landscape in 2024. These trends aren't just your average party tricks. They're innovative ways to create lasting connections and leave attendees feeling fulfilled. From wellness-centered events to thrilling adventures, these trends are guaranteed to make a lasting impact. Imagine hosting an event where attendees leave feeling rejuvenated and reconnected with their community. Imagine attendees bonding over shared experiences and forging meaningful connections that last long after the event ends. But don't just take our word for it. Join Liz as she dives into registration strategies, value-based planning, and cultivating a sense of belonging. She'll explore each trend in detail, providing insights, facts, and even some behind-the-scenes content. So let's transform your events together and forge connections that last a lifetime. Trust us, your attendees will thank you for it! https://lnkd.in/g7CvGEeK

I've stopped going to popular events because they SUUUUCCCCKKK! Networking is not my primary reason for going to an event. I can do a 1-to-1 on Zoom for pennies versus $1K+ on an event. The biggest issue I see for events is the agenda/content. Let me breakdown both for you. Agendas should include: Breaks that are 15 to 30 minutes between sessions ↳ This gives people a chance to network and discuss the session ↳ Breaks should also be themed to encourage conversation Sessions should not last more than 90 minutes ↳ A Keynote Speaker should not get 90 minutes to talk ↳ Sessions should allow more than a 10 min Q&A Should not start at 7am and end at 5pm ↳ Jammed packed agendas benefits no one ↳ Consider making some content on-demand to give back time Include community service opportunities ↳ Include this in registration and make intentional ↳ Do this before the last day of your event Some form of entertainment ↳ Not just at the welcome or after party - during a session ↳ Activations that don't scream branded sponsor materials More breakout sessions ↳ General sessions are cool, but normally lack skills ↳ Breakouts is where skills are developed and harnessed Content Should include: Information you asked attendees for ↳ Information you assume people need is bad judgement ↳ Things that answer critical industry concerns is good judgement More than inspiration ↳ Attendees are coming to have problems solved ↳ Inspire at the beginning, change lives with solutions in the end Game changing trends ↳ Think of A.I., implementing sustainability, and real engagement ↳ How to beat cost inflation while still providing ROI Tools on shaping your industry: ↳ We still have issues with #DiversityEquityInclusion ↳ We still have issues with leadership, empathy and care These are just a handful of ways that events can shape every single industry out there. Event Planners do not lead these efforts. You as the client/event host do. My job as an Event Planner is to guide you on how to implement each of these with ease. Until you want to make a difference, events will forever be a rinse and repeat. Need help changing how attendees see your event? DM ME BELOVED!

I had a very nice chat this weekend with fellow independent conference organizer Clark Sell of THAT Conference. We have so much in common having both built a successful events business that took a decade in the making. But we've also both been through the pandemic and are now out the other side in a world that is vastly different for independent event producers. What's changed? Here are a few ways the market looks nothing like 2019: -- Consolidation of event services by private equity and public companies means that producing an event in any sort of traditional event venue has more than doubled in cost over five years. -- The derth of online content means that having a lot of programming at a conference doesn't mean what it used to. People are coming to connect with expertise- in small settings. -- The rise of the platform conferences (AWS Reinvent, Dreamforce, Adobe MAX, I/O) has led to a belief that size matters over all else and marketing $ chase leads as a measure of success. And here's why I'm bullish on the future and why you should support your independent event organizers. -- Authentic connections are hard to come by at major events- this is backed by neuroscience where our prefrontal cortex cannot process information, including making business contacts. You can probably verify this yourself by trying to recall all the conversations you had at the last mega conference you attended. They don't remember you, either. -- Event's that aren't all about one platform can deliver unique insights, ideas and connections for attendees. Discovery, Serendipity and Authentic connections abound in more creative atmospheres. -- Independent event producers will start to stand apart from as the mega-event trend continues- Indie organizers are more like an owner/chef at a bistro vs. the manager of a Panera. Family owned, all-on-the-line all-the-time. Which would you prefer- The Bear or Panera? I am grateful for the work that I do and a strong comeback this year, but I would be remiss if I didn't admit it's probably the tougest work I could've chosen. You wouldn't believe how poorly event organizers can be treated, especially by those we advocate for every day- you've got to have thick skin in this business. I relate to the Eminem song Lose Yourself where he says "I've been chewed up, spit out, and booed off stage." And the reason that line is great is because we know how it ends- he makes it, he comes back in spite of huge challenges and a changing music business. Here's to coming back Clark Sell. If you want a great experience and to find some enlightenment while moving your career and company forward, get out to THAT Conference in one month. Not only will you be supporting a great human being and family, you'll be doing yourself a favor by gaining some clarity in a very cloudy tech / IT / AI market. www.thatconference.com

As a conference producer, my journey to create the perfect event is a labor of love, a symphony of creativity and strategy that reflects my passion for bringing people together to share knowledge and experiences. Each conference is like a canvas waiting to be painted with the colors of inspiration, and here's how I approach it: A Purpose-Driven Vision: Every conference begins with a spark of inspiration and a clear vision. It's like planting a seed, nurturing it with the purpose and objectives that will guide every decision in the planning process. For me, it's about more than just an event; it's about crafting an unforgettable experience. Understanding Our Tribe: The heart of any conference is the people who attend it. My secret weapon is understanding our tribe—the attendees. What drives them? What keeps them up at night? By peering into their world, we can curate content and experiences that truly resonate with their needs and aspirations. The Theme's Soul: Choosing a theme isn't just a task; it's an art form. It's about selecting a theme that has a soul, one that evokes emotion and excitement. The theme sets the stage, and every detail from thereon, from speakers to workshops, should dance to its rhythm. Technology as a Partner: In today's digital age, technology isn't just a tool; it's a partner in creating magic. Selecting the right platform is akin to choosing a dance floor where attendees can connect seamlessly, share ideas, and feel the pulse of the event. Weaving Stories with Marketing: Marketing isn't just about spreading the word; it's about weaving stories that capture the imagination. Through social media, email campaigns, partnerships, and a dedicated conference website, we paint a vivid picture of what's to come. The Sponsorship Alchemy: The financial puzzle often finds its missing pieces through strategic sponsorships. Collaborating with sponsors not only brings resources but also enriches the conference with their unique contributions and expertise. Creating Moments of Connection: The essence of a conference lies in the moments of connection and engagement. We craft activities like live Q&A sessions, interactive polls, and virtual networking opportunities to ensure that attendees are not passive observers but active participants. The Ongoing Story: Even after the final session ends, the story continues. Sending thank-you emails, sharing session recordings, and nurturing networking opportunities are the chapters that keep the story alive, ensuring that the impact lingers long after the curtain falls. For me, each conference is a unique masterpiece, an opportunity to learn, grow, and inspire. It's about building a community, fostering connections, and leaving an indelible mark on everyone who joins the journey. My team and I am looking forward to our next conference in 2024 themed Global Workforce Innovation Summit. Kindly send a DM if you would love to be a part of, or sponsor this groundbreaking event!

🌟 Major Announcement Alert! 🌟   We're incredibly excited to announce that Joi Events, the name that buzzed throughout the UK #eventtech market last year, will be joining us as stand partners at the much-anticipated EXPERIENCEit event, happening next week on 8th February at the EICC in #Edinburgh!   Joi Events is not just enhancing their offering; they're revolutionising the event planning industry with exciting news to be announced at the show! "Our goal is crystal clear," states Rob Vass, co-founder of Joi Events. "To put this powerful event planning tool in the hands of every event planner in the UK, no matter the budget." Starting at just £35 per month, Joi Events is making event planning accessible for everyone from students and freelancers to agency and corporate event organisers.   The Joi Events platform serves as a central hub for all things event management, eliminating the need for endless Microsoft documents and spreadsheets. It's the "one source of truth" for event-related information, facilitating seamless collaboration among teams. Planners can effortlessly build and manage programs, agendas, or schedules, publish them to websites, and make them accessible on mobile devices. But Joi goes beyond schedules, helping manage the financial aspects of events, including tracking revenue, costs, quotes, and cash flow. "It's about time, efficiency, and, most importantly, inclusivity," adds Vass 💡 Get ready for a groundbreaking announcement at the show that promises to change the game in event planning.   🎉 Special Offer Alert! 🎉 Don't miss the chance to meet us at our stand for a special sign-up offer exclusive to show attendees. It's your opportunity to elevate your event planning capabilities with an unbelievable deal.   Join us and Joi Events in making unforgettable events the norm. Let's revolutionise event planning together! See you at the EICC on 8th Feb!   #Experienceit #EventPlanning #JoiEvents #Innovation #SpecialOffer #EICC #Edinburgh #MICEClub, #TechUnleasedbyCTM

Everyone organizing a #conference should be reading this Cliffs Notes on how to do it right. #eventprofs #meetingplanner #eventlife