When developing a Strategic Meetings Management Program (SMMP) it is important to be Optimistic about your program Outcomes. It may not be as easy as it seems, even if you are developing your SMM in alignment with Keeping it SiMMPle principals! There are times when development of a new process or approval of a new policy is taking longer than anticipated. Even thought there might be some roadblocks in the way, acknowledge them, because people need to know that you have a handle on the issue and challenges, but optimistically reinforce the message that outcomes are better than they were 3 months, or a year ago!
Additionally, you may be getting frustrated when trying to change the behavior of others, even if they know that an SMMP is the best thing for your company. People can be negative or a hindrance to your SMM progress, but, again, it is up to you to be consistently optimistic about the future of the program. Be sure to let others know that each step forward helps ensure positive outcomes for the program!
Optimism is contagious, just as pessimism can be! As the leader of the SMM program, you need to be the person who is viewed as always positive, no matter what is taking place! Not in a false way, though, because you need to be seen as someone who is realistic. So if a process or supplier isn't working out the way you wanted, you need to acknowledge that, but then share the good news. Let people know what changes will be implemented as a result of the poor process or performance. Optimistically share how the program will benefit as a result of things that did not go so well at first. Demonstrate that you are learning from mistakes and putting in process that will be even better than originally thought!
|