Recently I was asked for a list of tips/tricks that help me every day as a meeting planner: both personally and professionally. Putting this list together was fun, but it was also a challenge, and not in a way that one might think. Finding ten things that I do daily – and are suitable for publication – inspired me to think critically about how I spend my time each day. It also motivated me to think about more things that I can do – or even do a little bit better!
In the interest of full disclosure, I’m not always as successful at putting a check mark next to each of these as I’d like to be, but they’re good reminders and goals to work toward:
- Read an inspiring article or post something positive or helpful to social media in the morning: it sets the tone for the day.
- Review and update my to-do list at the beginning and end of each day.
- Reach out to at least one person – either a new or existing contact – on LinkedIn.
- Read an article or blog on a new meetings industry development, concept or case study – preferably a topic that I know little about.
- Close my email during meetings and phone calls: really focus and engage!
- Check hotel pick-up reports (this is a good and bad habit!)
- Respond to every inquiry within 24 hours: even if only to say that I need to investigate and follow up!
- Follow someone/something new on Twitter to gain a different perspective.
- Read and try to use the Merriam-Webster Word of the Day
- Generate one new idea – no matter how small – to improve my work process or next event.
Read more about what other planners do on the daily here.