Open Letter to Meeting Planners
Dear Meeting Professional-
There’s a magic in the air when we bring people together. As someone deeply embedded in the idea of why networking makes a difference, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of connecting.
That’s why I believe those of us who plan meetings (I organize 15+ events a year in my role at the Austin Technology Council) must champion a cause that is the heartbeat of every gathering: intentional networking.
In our fast-paced digital world, the value of face-to-face interactions has never been more clear. Conference attendees are not just looking for another webinar or virtual meet-up; they crave the irreplaceable energy of in-person events. They want to shake hands, see smiles, share stories, and build relationships that thrive on personal interaction. They come to our events hungry for opportunities to connect, learn, and grow alongside their peers.
So, why should networking be a top priority at your next event? It’s simple. Networking is the core reason people attend. Beyond the keynotes and the breakout sessions, it is the promise of new professional partnerships and friendships that truly excites and engages your audience. This is why I profess that meeting planners are community builders.
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Imagine an event where each attendee leaves with not just a handful of business cards, but with real connections that could lead to transformative collaborations. Envision your conference as the birthplace of ideas and projects that might change the industry landscape. This is the potential you unlock when you make networking a central pillar of your planning.
As a keynote speaker, my talk on “Uncommon Connections: Building a Stronger Inner Circle” has impact beyond the individuals taking notes, but it changes the culture of the event itself. When the audience comes along on a journey of how connections are more important in 2024 than ever before, they spend less time on their phones and more time talking to the other people present at the conference.
By prioritizing networking, you don’t just host an event; you create a catalyst for growth and opportunity. When a meeting transforms into a community, everyone wins.
Let’s make each conference a milestone event in the professional journeys of our attendees. When planning your next meeting, build an environment that is not just about listening and learning, but about engaging and connecting.
Thank you to those who creating spaces that matter, and for being the champions of networking. The future of our professional landscapes is brighter because of your efforts in hosting industry events.
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Thom Singer, CSP, is a professional keynote speaker and the CEO at the Austin Technology Council. He has been speaking about the power of community to corporate and association audiences for twenty years, and can transform the way people engage while onsite at your event and after they return home
