Meeting Planner Careers

Success comes to those that know how to attain it, and sadly many meeting planners do not really know how to do this. The problem is not the fact that they are not good at their jobs, but rather that they are allowing themselves to be pigeon-holed into a single role.

Here’s how to break out:

Ask to take part in meetings – If this raises objections, offer to sign an NDA (non-disclosure agreement) and/or suggest that learning about what happens in a meeting can make you more effective at planning future meetings.

Do not ask questions about venues until you have researched options – Many bosses prefer to have options presented to them, not half-researched problems. Always take a few minutes each day to look at the pricing and options at different venues, catering companies, and so-on.

Be valuable because you are connected – Cultivate contacts that can get things done when nobody else can or at prices that nobody else gets. Be sure to let the powers that be about these connections so they see the value in your work.

Always ask for feedback – Change the meeting format or venue in some way every so often to test things out. Be sure to ask for feedback, as it makes you seem interested and connected as well as progressive.

Careers are made or broken on the backs of return customers. The recession has some impact on just when clients return, but your skills as a meeting planner will determine if they remember you name as the economy returns to normal.

Building customer loyalty is tough. You can’t depend on charm and one good experience. The client needs to feel valued as an individual. It’s important to keep good records and create a client profile. Did you book a cruise for the client’s wedding anniversary? Keep that date in mind. If he booked a family vacation, make a note of his children’s names and ask about them when he calls the second time.

If something went awry with the business meeting, note that in the files. Jot down solutions that will prevent the problem in the future. Was the trip or conference a good experience for your client? Make notes during your follow up call. You are making a follow up call after the conference, aren’t you?

Responding to feedback and personalizing your services makes planning future event easier and lets your clients know that you appreciate their business. A difficult client will often respond positively when they know you doing your best on their behalf. Return customers are money in the bank.