On the Road with Vienna

A few weeks ago, I accompanied our colleagues from Vienna, Austria on sales call appointments. Today, as I write this blog, I realize face to face interaction is no longer the norm. Our face to face meetings were critical opportunities to connect North American meeting planners with Vienna Convention Bureau, Austria Center Vienna, Messe Wien and Austrian Airlines.

We traveled from New York City to Baltimore, drove through the monuments of Washington D.C. before returning to the (then) busy streets of the Big Apple, NYC. A typical hectic schedule for a sales mission!


I am an extroverted person; so, promoting Vienna was bound to be my mission as my first name is Austria. I have always valued face-to-face meetings as the connections made are unlike any other. During such challenging times, I am grateful for today’s technology that allows us to continue those face-to-face interactions from anywhere in the world.

The executives we met were all responsible for global events. They shared some of the key deciding factors when they choose a destination:

• Sustainability efforts: What are sustainable efforts are happening beyond the Convention Center?
• AV options: Do you have a required AV vendor? Is it in-house/included?
• Space flexibility: Are you able to accommodate general sessions and break out room concurrently for the same event?
• Airlift: How connected is your city to the rest of the world, specifically North America?

Our Vienna team members were thrilled to match these criteria with what Vienna has to offer:
• The World Economic Forum named Vienna the most livable city in the world for the 10th year in a row.
• According to the Arcadis Sustainable cities Index 2018, Vienna has been ranked #5 overall best city and #4 most environmentally friendly.
• The Austria Center Vienna is a purpose-built congress center with all AV equipment already in place.
• Messe Wien which translates to “Trade Fair of Vienna”, has flexible walls which move to create the room space or break out rooms needed to fit your program.
• Austria Airlines has 7 gateway cities from North America, is happy to announce the launch of direct flights from Boston to Vienna.

Looking back at these memories during the sales mission further solidifies my love for the Business Events industry and captures what makes it so special:

• It’s the human interaction
• The connections made with a simple handshake and the support that comes with it
• Those shared special moments that become incredible memories

As we look to the future for better days, Vienna with such a professional and positive team, will be ready, delighted and more than capable to host your next meeting. Our current industry challenges will unite us in creating new memories that will strengthen us for future obstacles.

Spotlight on Korea

While South Korea is on the path to reining in the outbreak, new developments are shaping up the architectural landscape.

The new Galleria department store in Gwanggyo neighborhood in South Korea was recently completed featuring a monolithic stone, glass, and a communal garden located on the rooftop. The structure was designed by Rem Koolhaas architecture firm OMA in partnership with Gansam, a Korean based architecture firm.

To learn more about the future of urban design in Korea, click here.

Photo source: Hypebeast

Why Diversity Matters

A month ago, an acquaintance sent a link to an interesting article in a group chat. The article was about Goldman Sachs’ Commitment to Board Diversity. The text message was accompanied with a frown face and the words, “oh no”. 

As I am a native Siberian (Russian) who made New York City my new home, I personally took interest in NYC’s diverse culture. Once I finished reading the article, I knew I had to add “my two cents” to this sensitive topic on diversity and inclusion.

I agree that competency should not be determined by skin color or gender. However, statistics suggest, competent people of color do not have access to positions of power within the workplace. We live in a society where competency is still sometimes equated with a person’s “exterior features.” The question becomes: do we continue hiring based on the traditional image of a qualified candidate or pursue diversity instead? How do we find this balance and not gravitate to one of the absolutes?

Balance is the key. A diversified workplace full of professional and open minded people – this is the goal. I decided to look at some statistics from within the MICE industry and see what conclusions I could draw. 

While digging deeply into the representation of diversity in the Meetings and Incentives Industry, I came across some interesting statements:

As Fabian J. De Rozario, national president at National Association of Asian American Professionals, mentioned, “The meetings industry still has a lack of representation of Asian and Hispanic, Latino/Latina populations, both on the planning side and among suppliers.”

Anisha Lewis, executive director at The Association of Black Psychologists  also added: ”I do see a slightly increased number of people of color in upper-level positions, but it’s still disproportionate compared to the number of Caucasian men in upper management. Equal opportunity for women in senior management remains a work in progress.” 

Moreover, Workplace Diversity Report 2018 statistics show that 75% of employees in the Hospitality industry are Caucasians. 

 

In addition to the lack of diversity, there is even more of a gender disparity. 

Sam Robson, group events director at The Appointment Group has noted a worrying trend, commenting: “I think the events industry provides great opportunities for women however I am always disappointed at awards ceremonies when the company owners or chief executives receiving the awards are generally men and the events teams are mostly women.“ 

Now you probably have a question, why does diversity matter, and why do so many people talk about it? 

Workplace diversity has many direct and tangible benefits.

  1. The inclusive companies are 1.8 times more likely to be change-ready and 1.7 times more likely to be innovation leaders in their market. Diversity boosts innovation and drives market growth by creating an environment where “outside the box” ideas are heard. It was found that when at least one member of a team has traits in common with the end user, the entire team better understands that user. A team with a member who shares a client’s ethnicity is 152% likelier than another team to understand that client.

Leaders also need diversity to establish a culture in which all employees feel free to contribute ideas. Six behaviors unlock innovation across the board: 

  • ensuring that everyone is heard
  • making it safe to propose novel ideas
  • giving team members decision-making authority
  • sharing credit for success
  • giving actionable feedback
  • and implementing feedback from the team

Leaders who give diverse voices equal airtime are nearly twice as likely as others to unleash value-driving insights, and employees in a “speak up” culture are 3.5 times as likely to contribute their full innovative potential.  Additionally, to innovation, companies that have more diverse management teams have 19% higher revenue.

  1. The most diverse teams made better decisions 87 percent of the time. As the diversity of teams increases, so does the chance of making better decisions. Inclusive decision making delivers better decisions, with high statistical confidence. “While it is hard to change how our brains are wired, it’s possible to change the context of decisions by architecting decision-making teams for more diverse perspectives,” – Francesca Gino, Harvard Business School. 
  2. Racially and ethnically diverse companies outperform industry norms by 35%.  McKinsey has been examining diversity in the workplace for several years. They examined proprietary data sets for 366 public companies across a range of industries in Canada, Latin America, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The findings were clear: Companies in the top quartile for racial and ethnic diversity are 35 percent more likely to have financial returns above their respective national industry medians. 
  3. Reduced employee turnover. Companies with diverse workforce are generally more inclusive of different individual characteristics and perspectives. Diversity and inclusion in the workplace cause all employees to feel accepted and valued. When employees feel accepted and valued, they are also happier in their workplace and stay longer with a company. As a result, companies with greater diversity in the workplace have lower turnover rates. 

Based on solid facts, diversity and inclusion are not only important for the society but positively impacts a company’s bottomline. Working at Marketing Challenges International has exposed me to step out of my comfort zone, be open-minded, and make the effort to learn about my coworkers’ culture and their points of view. This invaluable experience led me to discover a lot of blind spots that I had. Numbers alone cannot convince people to reorient their thinking if there is no mindset to embrace something new.

In this moment of highly polarized identity politics, we need to improve our conflict resolution skills. If we cannot completely accept others’ points of view, I would encourage you to at least try to understand that your opponents have a right to believe in their ideas as much as you do in yours. There is no truth behind anger, but there are endless opportunities for growth when we work with people who do not look/think like us.

Now, what are your thoughts? Let me know! I would love to start a meaningful discussion on this timely topic.

Creative Project Manager

New York City, NY – March 10, 2020

Since joining Marketing Challenges International (MCIntl), Jennifer has executed creative and refreshing ideas such as the Global Events Visionary, the company’s blog launch in 2018, and other special projects.

A Nigerian born/NYC transplant, Jennifer’s cultural upbringing exposed her early to a colorful landscape. By merging her marketing/international business education background and her knack of project management, she brings to MCIntl a wealth of experience in adding a dash of creativity to current and projected client’s needs.

In her new role as the Creative Project Manager, Jennifer will create content for MCIntl’s clients focusing on adding visibility and tangible value. In addition, she will continue leading research and sales promotion projects for MCIntl’s clients using her organizational skills with a twist of creativity.

Dubai Association Centre

In the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Annual Report, United Arab Emirates (U.A.E) jumped 10 places ranking to lead the Arab world for the sixth consecutive year. The U.A.E. government’s mission is to facilitate business, and it has been very successful in achieving its goal

When you are considering the next host city for your global congress, we know that you take into account not only the ease of doing business there. You expect a strong commitment to your cause from the local authorities.

Dubai understands and is committed to not only make it easier to do business but to also support the growth of associations.

In 2014, Dubai launched the Dubai Association Centre (DAC) to become a leading platform for dialogue and education for associations interested in exploring opportunities in the Middle East Region. The ultimate objective is to contribute to building an association community that drives the knowledge economy in the U.A.E. and the wider region

Last December, DAC hosted the 3rd annual Dubai Association Conference: “Driving Change: The societal impacts of associations.” Under this powerful theme, association leaders and social change executives explored how the association sector can develop a cohesive and systematic approach to creating large-scale impact.

Patricia Blake, Chair of the American Society for Association Executives and CEO for the Heart Rhythm Society, shares how building a relationship with Dubai Association Centre can help you.

To learn more about DAC’s mission-driven conference, click here.

Photo credit: Dubai Association Centre

Tech Trends In Meetings 2020

I find it fascinating to research and hear about new technologies. These seemingly innovations change our world and make work more feasible and stress-free for many of us, including professional meeting planners.

Aventri, an industry platform dedicated to “providing a truly end-to-end event solution”, shared nine meeting & event technology trends to watch out for in 2020. Themes seen across these trends include sustainability, efficiency, security, and personalization.

My two favorite trends are as follows:

Facial recognition technology (like the feature on the iPhone) is a biometric software that can identify a person through their facial features. It can categorize attendees based on their age, gender, etc. The technology can be utilized for more efficient and strategic event registration, identification, security, amongst other things.

A major trend, even outside the meetings and events industry, and necessity nowadays is finding ways to be more sustainable. Event badging and digital ticketing via mobile wallets has proven to be a resource-saver. It is also a way to capture data more accurately.

See other featured trends and learn how to integrate them into your next meeting.

Photo source: Aventri

Global Events Visionary: Leslie Zeck, CMP, CMM, HMCC

Over the years, Leslie has been a trusted resource to us and our clients! With over 30 years as an Event Management professional and in her current role as the Director of Meetings at American and International Associations for Dental Research, Leslie has created sustainable value for the association. Leslie’s innovative contributions and industry knowledge makes her a Global Events Visionary.

Leslie took some time out of her busy schedule to share some of her invaluable experience with us…

JN: In your successful career, what are some of the strategies you’ve implemented in global meeting planning/management?

LZ: Don’t assume you know everything there is to know about meetings, even if you have years of experience under your belt, and all of those credentials after your name! Every venue, every destination, and every country have different requirements, regulations and ways of doing things. I compile a list of questions from issues I have learned from each meeting destination and ensure that I ask those questions of each new destination. For example, I ask each new venue, “What unexpected charges or requirements do your clients tell you that they wish they had known in the pre-planning phase of their meeting?” The destination should be forthcoming in providing those details which you should have before you event contract and budget for the meeting!

 

JN: From your experience as the Director of Meetings, what insights can you provide to international destinations in positioning their product/services in a competitive marketplace?

LZ: I enjoy welcoming destination representatives to our office when they are visiting the USA. I recommend that they be prepared with a comprehensive presentation to include a city map, airlift details and full floor plans. There is a strong chance that after we learn more about a destination, that we can consider it for the future. I recommend that the destination take time to get to know and understand the organization, the event and the clients’ needs. If the client has provided a history of meeting destinations, review it to understand the size, scope and airlift required. If the destination is too small or not in the right rotation, then discuss other possible meetings that may work instead.  Request the detailed process for site selection and take notice of when the client’s major meetings are being held to avoid meeting or contacting them at a busy time just before their major meetings and events.

 

JN: What global legacies or impact is IADR creating? 

LZ: IADR has created a Healthy Meetings Policy with oral health and overall health at the forefront of our meetings. We do not provide sugar-sweetened beverages at our meetings, and we work hard to provide healthy food and beverage options for our delegates, including substituting fresh fruits for dessert, and providing healthy snack options like nuts and dried fruits instead of sweets and candies. We also encourage sustainable practices for the meeting to include eco-printing, signage and carpeting, where possible.

 

JN: What are some of the benefits of planning an international meeting? 

LZ: Planning international meetings offers life-long learning and an incredible way to see the world. I always learn something new and unique about planning meetings in every destination, like what to pack in your carry-on baggage in case of a possible labor strike or inclement weather!  Our team members usually schedule time after each meeting to explore and experience all that each destination has to offer. This is a wonderful way to relax and unwind after a very hectic meeting and several months of planning.

 

JN: Any other pointers or advice you would like to share with our readers?

LZ: Be honest about what you know, and don’t know. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, like, “What have you seen disrupt or work well for other meetings and conventions of this size in this destination in the past?” And overall, ask the destination to provide you with the contact information for other planners who have gone boldly before you in managing meetings in those destinations. Someone else’s experience will assuredly be helpful to you in ensuring the success of your own meeting!

Vienna Convention Bureau’s New Structure

Ranked as number 1 in Mercer quality of living and placing 2nd place in ICCA’s International Meetings in 2018, Vienna’s continuous commitment to quality and service are some of the highlights that the destination has received in recent years.

The Vienna Convention Bureau’s management intends to keep Vienna’s leadership position and has recognized the recent market changes. The management has launched a new strategy emphasizing the visitor experience.

As part of the new stategy, VCB has implemented a new structure by establishing two teams focusing on the association and corporate markets. The Association team is led by Ms. Ulrike von Arnold overseeing international association programs in Vienna while Ms. May Sollinger-Soucek will take charge of the international corporate business.

As the North American office for Vienna Convention Bureau, we are excited and looking forward to bringing new business opportunities to Vienna. To learn more about Vienna’s new strategy, click here.

Photo credit: Martina Siebenhandl

Expo 2020: Focus on Sustainability

Set to open October 2020, the World Expo in Dubai is only a few months away! UAE is the first Middle East country to host the Expo since its inception in 1798. Sustainability is always a focal point when planning such an impactful initiative. With four key objectives, a strategy for a lasting sustainable impact has been created. Dubai and the UAE will promote its sustainable developments that will carry the EXPO efforts beyond its 6 months run.

The four key objectives are:

  1. To leave a legacy of sustainable infrastructure
  2. To catalyze sustainability efforts
  3. To increase public awareness and engagement
  4. To develop sustainability answers that are scalable

Along with these key objectives, inspiring 25 million visitors on the importance of sustainability and the environment with plans such as reducing waste and repurposing it into everyday needs, from fertilizer to T-shirts sold at souvenir shops. The Expo has high hopes of increasing awareness and highlighting UAE’s efforts in this regard.

To learn more about the Expo sustainable techniques click here.

Global Events Visionary: Cathy Vijeh

During one of our Sales Missions with a client, I had the golden opportunity to meet with Cathy at the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) headquarters. As the Director of Global Events, her role is critical to the global meeting planning and execution of ISSCR programs. With over 21 years of experience in association management, Cathy introduces a global perspective as well as community engagement for a lasting impact.

Cathy shared some meaningful insights with us as part of her Global Events recognition.

JN: What global legacies or impact is ISSCR creating?

CV: The ISSCR is the largest community of stem cell scientists in the world and its mission is to promote excellence in stem cell science and applications to human health.  By hosting scientific meetings around the world we are providing opportunities to facilitate discussions and provide a platform for sharing ideas between scientists to help meet this mission.  Also, as a part of each annual meeting the ISSCR requests that the co-sponsors assist in hosting a public symposium for the local community. This provides opportunities for the general public to listen to top scientists present stem cell science and discoveries in the city where our annual meeting is being held.

 

JN: In your successful career, what are some of strategies you’ve implemented in global meeting planning/management?

CV: Some of the most simple strategies are the most effective to differentiate your organization as a global versus domestic organization. Some examples of this are that our organization always writes out dates using the global format of day, month, year and writing out times using the 24 hour clock. I rarely use colloquialisms during business discussions as I interact with many English speakers who are not from the USA and may not understand what that colloquialism means.  I also clearly state my purpose and expected outcomes for people I interact with that speak English as a second or third language.  Simplicity rules. The apps that are always accessible to me are a monetary currency converter app; time and date app for scheduling global meetings and a measurement app to convert square feet to square meters. Also, I stay current on global news and events and follow news sources from around the world; my Facebook feed is curated to assist with global news access. It is important to understand the political and economic influences occurring in any place that you are conducting business and hosting a meeting.

 

JN: From your experience as the Director of Global Events, what insights can you provide to international destinations in positioning their product/services in a competitive marketplace?

CV: It is very helpful if a destination that I am interested in can provide information that is relevant to the association that I represent and how that relates to the destination.  For example, I am always going to want to know what the business climate for biological research and bio-medical or bio-technical companies is in any city that is under consideration.  Know the answers to why my particular group would want to hold a meeting in your destination.  Be prepared to give examples of other similar organizations that have held successful meetings in your destination.  Identify where I can find cost savings for any products and services necessary to hold my meeting in your destination.

 

JN: What are some of the benefits of planning an international meeting?

CV: For the ISSCR, holding international meetings in various cities/countries allows our constituency opportunities to convene in a variety of locations.  Depending on where someone hails from they may not be able to attend a meeting in one location due to financial, geographical or political barriers. However, they may be able to participate in the next location. So, the ability to provide equitable opportunities in participation is gratifying towards meeting our mission and enhancing a member’s ability to meet their professional goals.  Also, I try to recognize and implement various room sets, signage designs or visual elements that are typical to a destination and adopt those elements if it brings about planning efficiencies or savings.  For me personally, I have had the rare opportunity to interact with people from many different cultures and backgrounds and experience daily life in so many regions of the world.  I have learned global business principles on the job, utilize this knowledge continually and find so many opportunities to share this knowledge with the ISSCR team.  The best benefit is that things are always changing and I get the opportunity to be curious and a life-long learner while visiting some of the most interesting cities and destinations in the world.

 

JN: Any other pointers or advice you would like to share with our readers? Please note our readers are made up of international meeting planners and destinations.

CV: Taxes are always going to be one of the biggest add-ons to any costs in almost any country you conduct business. Have a basic understanding of VAT, GST and HST, where it is applied and how the concept of tax reclamation works.  On that note, partner with a great global tax specialist.  Their services are well worth the expense.  Lastly, invest in compression socks for long flights. I wish I found them sooner!