Have you just been handed the challenge (or your worst nightmare!) of organizing an upcoming corporate convention, seminar or meeting? I have been a part of planning many such events and would be delighted to give you any advice or assistance I can. Feel free to contact me.

I do have a few quick ideas to get you going:

1. Obtain a clear vision: Always "begin with the end in mind" by asking yourself and others what exactly you want to achieve in the conference or seminar. One problem many folks have is in trying to "bite off more than they can chew" in terms of topics. It may be better to be an inch wide and a mile deep than a mile wide and an inch deep.  I have created a survey that can be used as a planning document to gather key input from selected participants.  Please feel free to adapt and use it (in Microsoft Word format).
2. Conduct an assessment: Participants appreciate being a part of the planning process. If time permits, distribute a survey to the participants, allowing them to rate their interest in possible topics. I have a sample assessment on this website that you are free to adapt and use as you desire. Tabulate the surveys to determine what topics the participants want the most and try to build them into the conference. Provide feedback to survey participants to let them know what the results were.
3. Select Your Location: The location of your event will be largely determined by your vision of what you want and, most of all, your budget. Don’t forget to look into unusual options.
4. Select Your Presenters and Speakers: Again, your budget will influence these decisions. Try to select speakers and presenters who know how to actively engage the audience. Studies show that simply the style of presentation can result in a retention rate four times higher by the learners. "Death by overhead projector" will not go over well with your participants! If possible, observe potential presenters in action, ask them to send you a video-tape, or get first hand recommendations from others. You will notice that I have a five minute streaming video sample of my presentation style right on this website. I can also assist you in finding speakers.
5. Create Your Program: One tip I have for you is to alternate high energy and low energy items and topics on your agenda. If you have a low energy presentation, such as budget figures and projections, follow it with a higher energy topic if possible. Once people start getting bored, their retention level sharply decreases. Carefully manage the energy level of the group. Have fun icebreakers, group activities, and lots of discussion. Remember, people retain 15% of what they hear, and 85% of what they say: have lots of group discussions and individual interactions.
6. I have many other suggestions I can give you, as well as some recommendations for speakers and locations. Give me a call or contact me if I can assist you in any way.