The meetings and events industry is a dynamic and expansive world that plays a critical role in bringing people together for both business and personal purposes. Whether it’s delivering a conference, trade show, convention, exhibition, product launch or a gala, the aim of the game is to create a space for people to foster relationships, share unique experiences and exchange ideas. The industry is continuously evolving and adapting to changing trends and demands, which means there are always new opportunities for professionals to jump aboard.
Here, Zana Yassin, discloses some useful tips, links and insights for fellow newcomers, gathered during her recent experience of joining the industry as Strategic Content Specialist on our global marketing team.
A beginner’s guide to the industry
What’s so great about meetings and events?
As a newcomer to the industry, the first thing that struck me about the world of meetings and events is the scale and variety of the experiences it delivers. Whether it’s a hybrid conference engaging over 100k attendees from across the globe or an incentive trip that offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences like husky sledding in the Swiss alps or sipping Bordeaux in a hot air balloon that’s floating over the south of France – the industry’s power to bring people together through creativity, technology and innovation is truly impressive.
Its diverse offering is facilitated by an equally diverse workforce, made up of teams that specialise in a multitude of services ranging from venue sourcing to attendee management. Behind every event detail lies a skilled expert dedicated to enhancing the efficiency and memorability of the experience, from the integral choice of venue right down to the acoustics in the room or the way your napkin may be folded at lunch.
Another remarkable thing I remember noting during my first six months of working in the industry was – cliché alert – the people. Specifically, how approachable and intentional everyone is. Every person I’ve come into contact with has made my introduction to this industry a positive experience. And it’s not just because they’ve been friendly and accommodating but because these are people who design, manage and promote human interaction for a living. They appreciate the value of human connection and they know how to make others feel comfortable and welcome. They also know how to meet – It’s not an overstatement to say that every meeting I’ve attended, whether virtual or in person, has proven to be productive and engaging. Meeting strategies, agendas and presentations are all carefully managed to get the best out of the individuals involved. So when I read about businesses like Shopify rolling out meeting bans, I can only surmise their meetings were very different to the ones I’m attending.
How to get ahead
One of the first projects I worked on in my role as Strategic Content Specialist was the launch of the new BCD M&E website. Although coincidental, the timing of this project was perfect because it led me to reading and reviewing over 180 articles featured in the company’s online blog. Now, I’m not suggesting that you need to read every single article, but the blog is packed with information and insights on relevant topics and industry trends that are bound to give newcomers a running start and a deeper understanding on the multi-faceted world of meetings and events.
Visit the BCD M&E blog
DYK?
Acronyms are frequently used in the professional world, and the meetings and events industry is no exception. They can help to make communication more efficient, however they can sometimes lead to confusion and misunderstanding, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the sector. Below is a comprehensive overview of some of the most commonly used acronyms in our industry, to help make sure you’re on the same page during important conversations.
- A/V – Audio/Visual
- CMP – Certified Meeting Professional
- CRS – Central Reservation System
- CSM – Convention Services Manager
- CVB – Convention & Visitors Bureau
- DMC – Destination Management Company
- EMS – Event Management Software
- F&B – Food & Beverage
- FAM Trip – Familiarisation Trip
- I&D – Installation and Dismantle
- LS – Life Sciences
- MEEC – Meetings, Expositions, Events and Convention
- MICE – Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions
- MMP – Modified Meeting Package
- PDR – Private Dining Room
- PEO – Program Execution Order
- RFP – Request for Proposal
- SMM – Strategic Meetings Management
- VS – Venue Search
Stay in the know
Staying informed about the latest news and trends is particularly crucial in a competitive industry that experiences rapid growth. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, it’s important to keep up with the latest developments, industry innovations, and best practices. To help stay ahead of the curve, I have compiled a list of some of the most respected and widely read industry press publications from across the world.
- C&IT (Conference & Incentive Travel)
- M&IT (Meetings & Incentive Travel)
- Micebook
- Smart Meetings
- Meetings Net
- Meetings Today
- PCMA
- M&C Asia
If you want to save yourself some time then you can sign up to BCD M&E’s newsletter, The Point, which includes a weekly roundup of the biggest industry news, along with our latest blog articles and early access to BCD M&E’s leading reports.
Originally published Feb 7, 2023 6:38:15 AM
