Ten minutes…It’s Just The Beginning

Ten minutes might not seem like enough time, but it’s amazing how much you can accomplish if you have a plan and are prepared.  I like to look at these appointments as simply an opportunity to connect with an event owner.  If you come prepared for each appointment, you can focus on finding that “connection” during your appointment time.   Below I have listed some helpful hints for making the most of your time.  Most of them are simple and many of you probably already do them, but it’s worth a quick reminder.

Do some research

Visit their website; talk with colleagues who’ve hosted their events; chat with your locals about the organization; etc.

Seek them out

After your appointment, find them at one of the many great NASC networking opportunities or sit next to them in an education session.

Let them talk!

I find most event owners LIKE to talk about their organization and events.  What a better way to learn than directly from the source.

Don’t waste their time

Find out before you request them what their host city requirements are and make sure your city is a viable host for their events.

Move along

Be sensitive to the end of your appointment time.  Many of the event owners have very tight schedules.  Make sure you are respectful of them and your fellow attendees.

Follow-up

Just another reminder, this appointment is only the starting point, not the sales pitch.  Use follow-up to sell your city, however that works best for you.  Whether that is simply a handwritten note, a personal phone call or an invitation to your city, make sure to engage after the Symposium.

 As the Sports Business Development Manager for the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau, Holly Shelton helps to promote Oklahoma City as a sports destination.  Born and raised in Yukon, Oklahoma, Holly attended the University of Oklahoma and graduated with a BBA in marketing.  Holly lives, plays and works downtown Oklahoma City.  Although she is an all-around sports fanatic, Holly is an international and collegiate wrestling fan and loves cheering on her Oklahoma Sooners.

Holly Shelton, CSEE, CTA
Manager, Sports Business Development
Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau