Presented by Katherine S. Markham, CHME, ConventionPlanit.com

In Gary Hernbroth’s groundbreaking book, Twist the Familiar, he advises that like King Arthur of Camelot, we must all assemble our own Round Table of support professionals. 

As Chief Motivating Officer for Training for Winners – a sales training company, the following excerpts focus on improving all aspects of one’s sales career, including career development. “Essentially, I believe we all need to have  our own Knights of the Round Table, in one way or another. We need to have an inner circle of people we can draw support from, bounce ideas off of, and share our thoughts, dilemmas, or crises we are facing.”  He suggests writing down 5-10 professional colleagues who you would call in a pinch for intelligent advice and cultivating these relationships. 

“We need people around us who can be honest sounding boards for us. ” Having truthful supporters versus those who simply tell you what you want to hear will put you on solid ground. “Confident, self-assured people and true leaders are brave enough to surround themselves with people who bring value to the table, whether they always agree or not.” And raises the question, “Who’s Round Table are you on?”     

For a deeper look into the ideas shared here, take a moment to read this insightful review of the book that inspired them. It offers a clear perspective on building strong professional relationships and cultivating a trusted inner circle

Five steps to implementing audience-focused presentations.
Presented by the RFP Valet® Team

Comfort

Padded fabric chairs with tall backs provide reasonable support. They should face forward within 5-12 degrees of the main focal point of the presentation and ample leg room. Attendees must feel comfortable moving around to refreshments stations and restrooms. Set the temperature an hour prior to the meeting with ventilation and air circulation

Special Needs

To provide each attendee with the same advantages of the meeting, ADA requirements provide the blueprint for fully accommodating those with special needs.

Lines of Vision

Can all attendees see the presentation? This applies to the speakers and a video of the presenters. This also allows for lip reading and stage recognition. To improve the interactive quality, a sight line for attendees to see the physical reaction of other attendees is a powerful strategy. Exit signs must be clearly lit and accessed from the meeting room.

Lines of Communication

Articulate words in the local vernacular. Include interpreters when needed and sign language. Projecting screen visuals may be used to amplify the message. Have back-up material available online and in print.

Networking Opportunities

Attendees enjoy having their ear to the ground for issues. They can determine common ground for added support.