This issue is for all of you Meeting Managers who have not yet jumped into the exciting world of Strategic Meetings Management! Here we are, almost half way through the year, and you still haven't started to formalize your SMMP strategy. I say, stop thinking about SMM and Just do it! I know it really is easier said than done; but in the spirit of Keeping it SiMMPle, you can start with some very focused objectives and have a plan to add new components periodically in the future.

For example, if you have been holding off on writing a business plan to get approval; why not at least draft an outline of what you think should be in the plan? Commit to drafting one section per week until you are done. Also, ask a mentor or someone you respect in the organization to review and comment on your draft so you can take it from a very good document to an excellent one.

Have you done the math yet? We talked about it in the first issue of 2012:according to a variety of industry sources meetings and events are, on average, 2% to 3% of corporate revenues. What does that calculation look like for your company? Then, what would potential savings be, if you assume a low savings metric in the first year of 10%?

It's not just meeting managers who need to enter the world of Strategic Meetings Management, but also hoteliers and other suppliers who need to Just do it by understanding the changes in the buying process with an SMMP in place. In many cases that means working out side of the usual sphere of meeting planners and embracing the procurement department. If they are starting to get involved in your client's meetings, ask to set up a meeting with the procurement director (be sure to include the meeting manager of the company in this meeting). Proactively share the volume of business you have done in the last 12 to 18 months, point out savings metrics, and the value of doing business with your company as opposed to other companies.  

So, I hope that as the second half of the year begins, you will Just do it and start the SMM process!