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MPI-INTERNATIONAL Are We There Yet? By Ann Godi, CMP, MPI International Chairwoman President, Benchmarc360, Inc. Growing up, my family was a lot like the Griswolds – family outings in the family car. As we pulled out of the driveway, without fail my brothers would ask, “Are we there yet?” While none of us is likely to say that about the economic tsunami that struck in 2008, the QBQ (question behind the question) is – are we moving forward today? It does appear that most of the recent major economic indicators are strengthening. There are daily reports regarding consumer and business confidence rising, financial institutions re-paying TARP funds, and home sales and values increasing. In general, the economy appears to be stabilizing. I have seen some recent news that hiring prospects are improving. One report stated that online job postings were up 20 percent in August, 2009. Business seems to be returning and people are encouraged, trends highlighted in the August, issue of BusinessBarometer, published by Meeting Professionals International (MPI). Forbes Insights recently ran an article titled “Business Meetings – The Case for Face-to-Face,” confirming that business executives believe face-to-face meetings are crucial. I receive reports of hotels seeing increased business and planners seeing renewed interest in meetings and events. So it seems like a great time to focus on moving forward and getting back to the business of meetings—a great time to let go of what’s happened and heal from the economic perfect storm. Assuming we continue in this positive direction, what does it mean for the meetings and business events industry? MPI has been very active in providing support to our members during this time. A comprehensive Global Training platform, the Member Cares project, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and delivering elevated content through our bi-annual conferences—MeetDifferent and the World Education Congress—are some of our initiatives. On the local level, the New Jersey MPI Chapter has crafted a personal ROI toolkit for members. Further resources can be found at the MPI sponsored information hub, www.MeetingsMeanResults.com. I encourage you to visit this site and seek out other resources to help your business thrive. I invite you to share your suggestions with us for programming, networking, and social events. By making MPI aware of your needs and desires, you help us implement new programs that can benefit your business. Look for encouraging signs of industry recovery and spread positive news via social media channels. A recent Oxford Economics study found that for every dollar invested in business travel, U.S. companies gain a return of approximately $12.50 in revenue. We always knew we were valuable, but now we have priceless research to substantiate our industry discussions. Tell our story about strategic meetings management and return on investment. Let us unite in speaking the language of business and in one resounding voice tell the world about the value of meetings. When We Meet, We Change the World. Ann currently serves as Chairwoman for MPI. She previously served on MPI’s Exhibit Advisory Committee and the Program Evaluation Task Force. She was also elected to the International Board of MPI for a three year term after completing four years on the board (including two years on the executive committee) of the Georgia Chapter of Meeting Professionals International (GaMPI), one of MPI’s five largest Chapters. Ann can be reached at feedback@mpiweb.org. |
