10.02.2010

8 Values of a Successful Team-Innovative

After a fun and naughty romp through The Rocky Horror Picture Show in the last blog post, the time has come for musings on the subject of Innovation. Event Solutions Magazine recently asked what I felt was the best innovation of the past 12 months, as it related to the special event and meeting planning industry. I thought long and hard about the answer, as certainly, there are many. With so many innovative technological advances in equipment, as well as the plethora of internet-based technologies, my top choice would be quite difficult to determine. But after much deliberation, and evaluating the state of the industry from all angles, I came to a conclusion that is decidedly less high-tech.

I feel the industry is on the verge of something very special; something that, in the long run, is going to be of great benefit for the consumers of event-related products and services, as well as the providers.

What is the greatest innovation of the past 12 months? Speaking with the utmost conviction, I feel the greatest innovation is the Power of TRUE perseverance, professionalism, and passion.

Allow me to explain. There is no question the special event and meeting planning industry has grown by leaps and bounds over the past 3 decades. The exceptional level of product that so many of my colleagues and friendly competitors produce both domestically, and internationally, is nothing short of amazing! I am honestly thrilled, and humbled, to have remained in the company of so many phenomenal professionals for so many years.

But at no time in those 30 years, have there been more economic challenges, sweeping advances to keep pace with, or such a heightened awareness of “value” from clients and planners, as in the past 12 months. Customers demand, deserve, and expect the very best value, and rightly so, they seek until their value criterion has been met. And sophisticated consumers never confuse price with value.

I have seen many persevere as a result of reinventing their businesses, and themselves, into leaner & more efficient operating machines. To persevere, it has become not just important, but absolutely essential to do more- a LOT more, with less- a LOT less. All without ever showing signs of fatigue. To truly succeed in the special event industry of today takes stamina, an iron will, nerves of steel, and an attitude and willingness to constantly strive for better. One must take the hits, and stand back up and be ready for more.

In addition to perseverance, the past 12 months has taught many the necessity of reaching new levels of professionalism. Being “really creative” or “artsy” is no longer an acceptable prerequisite for industry professionals. The days are ending for “wanna-be’s”. Street smarts coupled with academia; a broad range of analytical, financial, & management skills; an understanding of all disciplines of the industry; sales & marketing acumen; and exceptional creativity are now the bare minimum needed to share the field with so many exceptional event pros.

Adapting to changes in the business environment in innovative ways is not easy. These things can only be accomplished if one is truly passionate about what they do. For passion is what makes it all worthwhile!

Real innovation and transformation is accomplished by focusing on goals, not on obstacles. Because in life as in business, it’s You against You.

Perseverance, Professionalism, Passion.