MPI MN Profiles Planner Chris Hall

MPI MN profiles Planner Chris Hall, director of Event Management, Medtronic.

Why did you join MPI? 
I am always looking for insights and reports on the event industry. Joining MPI positioned me to get valuable awareness of event trends.
 
How long have you been in the meetings/hospitality industry?  
I have been working in the event industry for over 15 years.
 
How did you decide to get involved in this business?  What influenced you? 
There definitely wasn’t a moment that I can say I decided to join the events industry. I would say the events industry and I found each other. Creativity, technology, experiences and people are all key pieces to the events industry and passions of mine. 
 
What’s the most valuable advice you’ve received about working with meetings? 
Meetings should be organized in the order of Vision>Strategy>People>Action. This framework has helped me better understand my partners objectives and then provide better results.
 
What is one piece of advice about meeting planning you would share?  
When planning an event, understand the clear objectives your partner desires. Focus on connecting event impressions/experiences with your partner’s desired objectives.
 
What is one thing about this industry that you love? 
The people. This industry has some of the most resilient, creative and thoughtful professionals. 
 
What is one thing about the industry would you like to see changed?  
The industry needs to continue the evolution of consultative professional planning and not order takers. Most planning professionals know the ideal solution for their partner/client; yet they still do what the client wants versus what is the best solution. Develop a consultative methodology for your toolbelt and it will yield high results. 
 
What do you do outside of work?  
Spending time with my family is my #1. I enjoy going for walks, traveling or relaxing with them.