MPI MN Up-Close Profile – Planner - Barbara Connett

Why did you join MPI? 

When I was registering for the WEC I looked over the membership details and between the discount on the conference and the local events it seemed like a pretty great deal.

How long have you been in the meetings/hospitality industry? 

I have been working on events since 2007.

How did you decide to get involved in this business?  What influenced you?

I used to manage our association bookstore buying, selling and creating content for our members. Amazon was taking the book world by storm and it was clear that things were changing. I had the opportunity to move into education and the bookstore experience provided me a clear picture of the topics and educational needs our members need.

What’s the most valuable advice you’ve received about working with meetings? 

Most of the time the onsite fires and distress are never even noticed by the attendees. Take a deep breath, and keep moving.

What is one piece of advice about meeting planning you would share? 

Network with other planners. Better yet get to know planners in related industries. These people are great resources and possible partners for co-location events in the future.

What is one thing about this industry that you love?

Watching the shows in process. That constant movement starting from registration open to packing the boxes to go home. That flow… all those pieces coming together is beautiful.

What is one thing about the industry would you like to see changed? 

The scam artists need to be dealt with better. Between the room pirates and the people selling fake registration lists from events there are a lot of scammers for our exhibitors to fall prey to.

What do you do outside of work? 

I like to draw and read and play video games with my teenage daughters.