1. Faculty introductions
2. Program Objectives, Outcomes, and Expectations
3. Getting to know your colleagues in the industry

Meeting planners must be strategically involved in the construction, design and layout of the programming process. This process starts with a basic understanding of the meeting industry worldwide. In this initial course, participants will be introduced to the various areas of programming and the initiatives involved in successful planning and management. Discussions will focus on global examples, corporate strategies and industry methods that make major contributions to a successful meeting planning experience.

After participating you will be able to

- Acquire an understanding of the major components of meeting or convention programming
- Consider due diligence initiatives involved in basic programming and meeting management
- Demonstrate ability to construct a meeting timeline
- Analyze and defend an organizational chart
- Recognize the relationship between effective programming and Return On Investment (ROI)

As the geographic boundaries of meetings expand, the profile of attendees is changing rapidly. The needs of culturally diverse meeting attendees must be recognized and accommodated whenever possible to ensure a successful outcome for your event. This session will provide practical guidelines to recognize the unique needs of attendees from a variety of cultures and improve your ability to host them successfully.

After participating you will be able to

- Describe at least three areas of cross-cultural misunderstanding
- Identify the major cultural factors and behaviors that are distinctive to people from various nationalities or ethnic backgrounds
- Communicate appropriately and effectively in both professional and personal situations with people from diverse cultural backgrounds