What the Next-generation Conference Participant Really, Really Wants

An increasing number of associations are graying right before our eyes. Attracting the next generation member and conference participant has, and will continue to be, critical to organizational sustainability. In this program, you’ll discover illuminating insights about what society wants and expects today from your conference. You’ll also discover what drives people away from your events or association, and what compels them to keep coming back. These insights will be delivered by Dave Lutz, founder of Velvet Chainsaw Consulting, an industry-leading business improvement firm that helps conference and trade-show organizers grow or transform their major face-to-face conferences.

From this session, you will learn how to:

• Identify strategies for applying the findings about audience’s needs regarding institutions (including associations and conferences) from the field of sociology
• Evaluate strategies and indicators (both good and bad) for a sustainable conference business model
• Discuss shifts needed in your conference from 20th century demands to 21st century demands

Agenda:

10:00 a.m. – Networking/Registration
10:30 a.m. – Introductions and Sponsor Recognition
10:45 a.m. – Dave Lutz’s Presentation
12:00 p.m. – Lunch
1:00 p.m. – Program Conclusion


About our speaker, Dave Lutz, Managing Director, Velvet Chainsaw Consulting:
In 2006, Lutz founded Velvet Chainsaw Consulting, an industry-leading business improvement firm that helps conference and trade-show organizers grow or transform their major face-to-face conferences. Prior to becoming a consultant, Lutz was with Experient for 22 years, where he served as president of both the meeting planning and registration divisions. A frequent industry speaker, facilitator and author, Lutz specializes in large conference innovation and growth. Areas of expertise include conference business models, strategy, attendance marketing, sponsorship programs and meeting technology.

Members of the Ohio Society of Association Executives (OSAE), Meeting Professionals International (MPI) Ohio Chapter and Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) are encouraged to attend for the rate of $45; non-members may attend for $65 and students can attend for $10.

Registration Fees:

Members: $45
Non-members: $65
Student members: $10 (MPIOH and PCMA)


This program has been approved by EIC for 1.25 CEU hours under Domain A: Strategic Planning



Last year’s joint session sold out – register today to guarantee your spot!