December 2nd, 2009
Increasing the Value of Meetings
Most event and meeting planners have probably already encountered companies that want more value than ever before from their conferences, meetings and other events. While this can create more work for you, there are some things you can do to work out the kinks long before they happen.
Think Replacement
If you need to help the company keep expenses at a minimum, replace these meeting parts:
Replace the welcome reception with a working lunch — this allows attendees to meet and network, as well as enjoy a meal together. Replace the open bar with team building activities or brain storming training — these programs typically have a much better chance of improving the ROI than a bunch of drunk employees blowing off steam. Replace expensive entertainment with a spa wellness trip. You will have refreshed individuals ready to work. Replace land based venues with a cruise meeting, and save as much as 40%. Cruising is all-inclusive. Planners may be surprised to know that meeting rooms, meals, A/V equipment and luxury accommodations are all included in one low price.
Think Reduction
What if the customer says, “Okay, these cost savings are great, let’s get rid of the reception, evening entertainment, and and welcome reception open bar meet-and-greet! So what do we do on the last day, then?”
Cut those activities, and tell the client that not only will they save on the usual expenditures that don’t improve ROI on the cost of the meeting, but they can eliminate the last night’s hotel bill as well.
By replacing the non-ROI generating activities, you have already greatly increased the value of the meeting. Your client will be happy about that for a long time. And happy, satisfied clients translate to more meeting planning business for you in the future. So, it pays to find every way to cut out unnecessary expenses and increase meeting ROI for your clients.
Explode meeting ROI with a cruise meeting. Cruising offers a savings of as much as 40% of the cost of land based venues, since a cruise is all inclusive. Go to Seasite.com to use the innovative group cruise planner, and make your next company event a cruise meeting!