Why did Strategic Meetings Management (SMM) fall on our shoulders? Why is it you and why is it me? Because we recognize the importance of implementing an SMM Program and the significant impact it can have on our company. We understand that if the meeting and event spend is controlled and centralized on an enterprise wide basis, the outcomes will be:

• Increased leverage of meeting and event spend
• Reduced contract risk
• Control of corporate messaging
• Improving meeting outcomes
• Increased productivity

We know that if we don't lead this important initiative, Strategic Meetings Management may not happen at our company. Therefore it is critical that we are persistent about the need for an SMMP in order to positively affect change within our organization. Once we are able to sow a few seeds of success, we recognize the need to celebrate even incremental achievements; as these "small wins" are instrumental in keeping the SMM momentum strong! We recognize that there is a need to keep a laser focus on the ultimate goals and objectives for your Strategic Meetings Management program.

 

If you are an hotelier or other supplier you understand the changes in the buying process with an SMMP in place. You know that you must embrace the procurement department and that if procurement is starting to get involved in your client's meetings, you need to set up a meeting with the procurement director. We know that if you proactively share the volume of business they have done with you in the last 12 to 18 months and point out the value of doing business with your company (rather than with competitors) you will be well positioned as an important business partner.

 

Ultimately, the answer to why you and why me is that we understand the significance of Strategic Meetings Management and how to make it happen!