I recently came across the results of a 2025 Gallup Poll in which respondents were queried about the importance of praise and recognition at home, in the workplace, and when they’re out and about interacting with others.

It found people who receive regular, sincere, high-quality praise and recognition are significantly more engaged, motivated, and loyal to their organizations, their relationships, and their personal goals. In the workplace, employees who are well-recognized are 45% less likely to leave their jobs, and when recognition is added to the mix, it bumps that retention number up to 65%. Clearly, praise and recognition deepen a person’s commitment to an organization and its culture, individual life goals, and interpersonal relationships.

Honestly, I wouldn’t call this a news flash but I do think the findings serve as a great reminder and reinforcement of what most of us probably already knew but, maybe, don’t put into action on a regular basis. But I wonder … do we [including me] seize opportunities to praise and recognize someone for over-and-above efforts and for reaching key milestones along their personal journeys? I’m not talking about going overboard with excessive quantities of praise because that, like anything, very quickly gets stale and ineffective. I’m talking about quality praise and recognition, the type that flows from one heart and touches another.

Consistently over the decades, research has come to the following conclusions about the positive effects of praise and recognition:

• Boosts confidence and extends motivation — Receiving earned praise confirms the value of one’s actions and encourages further effort and growth.
• Improves attitude and mental health — Focusing on strengths and recognizing accomplishments helps reduce stress, anxiety, and negativity by shifting attention to positive pursuits and away from problems which often garner more focus and attention than they rightfully deserve.
• Enhances and strengthens social bonds — Offering praise builds trust, respect, and a sense of belonging in relationships, whether personal, professional, or social. Recognition before others turbo-charges this effect.
• Encourages resilience — Acknowledging and recognizing progress during challenges cultivates a positive mindset and a greater commitment to persevering in spite of headwinds and difficulties.

When recognition is built into workplace culture, engagement levels rise by nearly 32%, driving higher morale, productivity, and collaboration among teams. In fact, companies with robust recognition programs see up to 40% lower turnover, illustrating how appreciation not only rewards effort but also reinforces positive behaviors that align with organizational values.

We have one client who invites all 750 of its employees to a local convention center for a program that honors their top 10-15 performers. This company-wide recognition fosters respect, strengthens the organization’s cultural bonds, and catalyzes motivation. “What if I was one of those people called onstage next year …?”

Bigger Isn’t Always Better

Small ways to reward performance include verbal praise in meetings, personalized thank-you notes, or social media shoutouts acknowledging good work. Recently, one of our dynami team members did an exceptional job on something and she was rewarded with a dozen tasty cupcakes which had the desired effect of making her feel special. And isn’t that the point?

Other low-cost gestures might be offering a reserved parking spot for the month, a special lunch outing, or a gift card. By contrast, grand ways to reward performance involve higher investment in the individual, whether it’s a salary bump, an unscheduled bonus, elite professional training, additional Paid Time Off, or a mini-sabbatical. And of course, there’s always the opportunity to reward them with a President’s Club slot and send them, along with other high-achieving peers, to a sun-and-sand location, a luxury dude ranch, or travel to someplace offshore and exotic.

Words Matter …

Not to be a chest-thumper but I’d like to brag a bit about the dynami team. Recently, I received the below note from the CEO of a client, commending our onsite Production Team after a well-executed program. It read:

Hi there,

I just want to take a moment to say thank you for the truly outstanding job you did bringing this year’s conference to life. From the earliest planning stages to the very last session, every detail reflected your hard work, creativity, and commitment to excellence. You handled every moving piece — and there were many! — with grace, teamwork, and heart. The result was an event that not only ran seamlessly but left our entire community inspired, connected, and proud to be part of something so special. I keep getting “best conference ever”.

Thank you again for your talent, your teamwork, and for always going above and beyond! If you can please share this with the rest of your team that was there, I would greatly appreciate it! I know we will be in touch soon.

One-hundred and thirty-four words. But to me, and to the entire dynami team, it felt like a million bucks!

Never overlook the opportunity to share praise and/or recognize another when the situation merits. You never know how much a few well-chosen, heartfelt words of praise, or a moment of recognition in front of peers, will mean to another person today, tomorrow, even many, many years from now when they reflect on their careers. And ultimately, you, will likely be rewarded with a happier, more loyal, and even higher-achieving team member.

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

The post In Praise of Praise and Recognition appeared first on dynami.

Ruiz’ book sold more than 15 million copies in the U.S. and stayed on The New York Times Best-Seller list for more than a decade. In summary, it says the key to harmony and happiness is to:

• Be impeccable with your word by speaking truthfully and kindly.
• Take nothing personally because others’ actions reflect themselves, not you.
• Make no assumptions. Instead, communicate clearly to avoid misunderstandings.
• Always, always do your best, understanding that your best may vary day to day but doing so fosters self-respect and growth.

While cynics may roll their eyes and call this an oversimplification, I ask, “Is it?” Maybe happiness in life is that simple. And taking this thought process a bit further, maybe the key to more engaging, collaborative and productive business meetings – whether they occur on a handful of screens across a vast Zoom or Teams network, or with hundreds of folks gathered in a large conference hall – is the application of these very same principles.

A Different “Take”

An interesting perspective popped into my LinkedIn feed recently. Thomas Lahnthaler, who calls himself an “intentional unconventionalist,” posted that he’s against ground rules or agreements in group settings. His take? They only help the facilitator, not the people in the room. Agree with him or not, his perspective pushes one to pause for a moment and rethink things. I did and I came to the conclusion that I simply don’t agree with his statement. [Call me an “intentional conventionalist”, I guess.]

Where I think he misses the mark, despite a litany of people cheering his post on, is that it’s often the spoken or implied rules and guidelines — the “agreements” — that keep people between the navigational beacons and lessens the likelihood of some flying off-topic or off-task. There’s a reason why interstates are lined by directional signs, posted speed-limits, and overhead readerboards. Without these, especially in today’s often frantic, too-quick-to-confront society, our highways would devolve into demolition derbys in no time. With all due respect to Mr. Lahnthaler, it’s these very “agreements” that lead to successful business sessions. Let’s take a closer look …

Start with “Why Are We Here?”

I know it sounds as obvious as pumpkin spice this time of year but leaders, presenters and facilitators of business sessions should always kick off any group work by answering the obvious but often disregarded questions:

• Why are we meeting?
• What do we hope to accomplish?
• How much time do we have to do it?

Establishing an “end game” up-front helps people use their time well and actually gain something from being together. How can that happen unless we’re clear – every single person — on expectations? It also helps to know who will be there, what issues are already on their minds, and what outcomes matter most to them. Oftentimes, people come from different backgrounds and don’t yet realize certain agreements exist. That’s when you get pushback, frustration, or flat-out resistance. Setting those boundaries [“agreements”], stating them, and creating a common platform or environment that works for everyone is not just useful, it’s essential.

The Invisible Agreements We All Carry

Think about it: Normal, everyday conversation relies on unspoken agreements. We just don’t consciously think about them or state them up-front when we chat with a spouse, a friend, a co-worker, or a neighbor. It’s understood — we all use a common language, we’re typically polite, listening is a give-and-take, and if the other party opens up, we’re more likely to do the same. All this is wrapped in respect. But when assumptions don’t line up, things can go downhill quickly.

Now scale that up to a whole group, and suddenly you’re knee-deep in misunderstandings, biases and close-mindedness that could have easily been avoided. And that’s precisely why establishing these agreements up-front is so important. It’s not about rules to restrain people, it’s about creating an environment in which all may contribute and, more importantly, benefit.

What Agreements Actually Do

Agreements don’t instantly make everyone safe or comfortable. But they do make it far more likely that people will speak up and participate, and stay on-topic and on-task. For the more timid, it reassures them they won’t be shut down and their voice will matter just as much as the more verbose players who will hijack sessions if given a hint of an opening. It also means people are more likely to wait their turn to speak and not talk over other each other, keeping the session from slip-siding into the ugliness of a Congressional hearing. I’ve seen meetings turn around dramatically with just one or two solid agreements stated up front. Something simple like, “Let’s hear first from people who haven’t spoken yet” can change the whole vibe of a conversation.

Why It Ultimately Matters

After several decades in the business, I still find people are inclined to invest a lot more time, energy and concern up-front on logistical matters before ever getting around to the goals, objectives, substance and the agreements for each session. Yes, securing the right venue in the right city on the right dates, easy airlift, food & beverage, etc. are all important but so, too, is the structure, tone, content and guidelines for each session.

Is it time to take a new look at how your next program should be designed and executed, with one eye focused on logistical priorities early in the process, while the other is also focused on messaging, style, structure and session “agreements”? When both are prioritized early in the planning process, the likelihood of success skyrockets.

If you find yourself struggling with this, or you simply want to brainstorm a new and effective way to execute your next program, give us a call. We’d love to help you out.

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

The post Establishing ‘Agreements’ Up-Front Can Propel Your Next Program to Success appeared first on dynami.

Given all this, it’s probably time to strap on a pair of futuristic lenses and take a fresh look at the role of corporate meeting and event themes.

Are they necessary?

Are they helpful?

Are they misused?

Yes, yes and yes. No, no and no. It just depends on how savvy you are when it comes to theming your programs.

If you’ve been in this business for more than a handful of years, no doubt you’ve seen the aging out of once edgy themes – Above & Beyond, In It to Win It, Unleash the Power, and S.O.A.R as an acronym with four cleverly selected payoff words as a tagline. And don’t forget the cringe-worthy, sing-songy Teamwork Makes the Dream Work. [Pardon me while I barf …]

Like CD players and Blackberry devices, these once useful creative executions now gather rust and dust atop the heap of hackneyed meeting branding with an afterlife of sleep-inducing boredom. The world has changed. The world is changing still. And it’s important to re-examine why we theme our programs, how pithy phraseology can actually catalyze excitement, and the various ways you can leverage your chosen theme to maximize impact.

Without Question, Meetings Are Back

Corporations are holding more programs than ever and the global events industry is on track to grow from $1.227 trillion in 2024 to $1.347 trillion in 2025, according to a LinkedIn Survey conducted earlier this year. It found:

• 66% of corporate event planners have scheduled more events in 2025, up from 41% in 2023.
• In-person meetings are leading this growth, favored by 59% of respondents, citing the importance of human connections and immersive experiences.
• 86.4% of organizers plan to maintain or increase the number of in-person events in 2026 and beyond.

So it is 99.99% likely you’re going to be brainstorming themes for upcoming events. But first …

Theming 101

Treat your theming as you would your site selection process, menu planning, and your messaging priorities. All require deep due-diligence and thoughtful consideration before making your best decision. After all, you must bake the cake before you can ice it.

• Identify your program’s purpose and objectives. — What do you hope to achieve? Who’s your target audience? What topics are foremost in their minds right now? The answers will help narrow your options and ultimately ensure your selected theme aligns with your event goals.
• Research industry trends and hot topics. — Look for what’s shifting, changing and emerging in your industry. Where are the challenges and opportunities? What are the latest innovations and best practices? Timely/relevant themes spark interest and engagement.
• What are the most pressing needs and interests of your audience? Where do they need the most help and support? What tools are they asking for to execute their jobs more efficiently and successfully? What new skills will they need to face a changing industry powerfully and successfully?

Only after addressing these questions is it time to get creative and strategic with your theming. Your final step is to brainstorm 4-5 theme options and ultimately land on the right and perfect choice that honors your answers to the questions above, and can be engagingly executed in your various theme graphics [i.e., web/app, speaker support, video/animation, print, signage, apparel, amenities, etc.]

Be free-thinking, contemporary and don’t just think outside the box, crush that box and swing the door wide open to all options. Best to start bold and rein back in as necessary. Something seemingly silly or outrageous may easily be refined to perfectly suit your program and audience. Make a list of any and all brainstormed themes then rate them based on relevance, timeliness, energy level, and impact [the ability to inspire your attendees]. You may even be able to marry two of your final options into a single theme.

Consider sharing your top 2-3 finalists with key stakeholders and a handful of non-stakeholders who will likely give you the most candid feedback. Gather this feedback and use it to cull your list. Take a final vote and, voila, there’s your theme. Taking the time to step through this process will help your find the best theme possible and keep you from defaulting to old but weary themes like the ones listed above.

Finally, here are five edgy, contemporary theme options for your consideration:

INNOVATION | DISRUPTION — Focuses your program on truly bold new ideas and actions that shake up industries, move beyond the status quo, and redefine success and what it will take to achieve it. Sessions could highlight tech disruptors, focus on a culture of innovation and brilliant thinking, and inspire radical strategies for staying ahead in a rapidly changing industry. Sets the bar high when it comes to mindset and expectations.

BEYOND TOMORROW … TOGETHER – Addresses the cutting-edge, ever-evolving tech world we live in while maintaining an embrace of the all-important human-to-human connection. Success today and in the future demands a melding of both. You could use immersive experiences like AI-powered networking, holographic speakers, and ultra-modern, mind-blowing design elements to inspire forward-thinking discussions. Creates an arm-in-arm, in-lockstep mindset for your marketing, sales and ops teams as they prepare themselves for a bold new future.

OURS TO OWN – Answers the inspiring question we’ve all asked ourselves at one point or another: “Why not me? Why not now?” Imagine an audience of 300 sales reps who each embrace such a message, a powerful call-to-action. Catalyzes hope and belief that much is to be gained on a journey to remarkable achievements and rich rewards. Why not us …?

MICRO SHIFTS | MACRO RESULTS – Similar to James Clear’s key messaging in his best-seller Atomic Habits, this theme speaks to the transformative power of establishing small habits and taking a system-based approach to personal growth and behavioral change. Clear writes “small habits make a big difference”, emphasizing tiny, seemingly insignificant improvements, even as little as 1% each day. These efforts and daily micro-progress compound over time to create long-lasting, remarkable results.

BEYOND PRICE – THE TOTAL SELL — Price is always a sensitive issue that often makes or breaks a deal. But lowest price alone isn’t always the best option. No, the best option is greatest value, with pricing as a key component. It takes more than low-ball numbers. This theme encourages sales professionals to focus on all factors influencing customer decisions — quality, reliability, trust, service, support, loyalty and partnership. It demands a more nuanced understanding of the sales process and exposes areas needing improvement for each individual rep. Master this approach and you will sell effectively and successfully, build lasting relationships with customers, and drive mutual growth and profitability.

Hope you found this 5-minute refresher interesting and insightful. Our entire team at dynami is always here to help. Reach out today!

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

The post Is It Time for a Refresher on Corporate Meeting Event Themes? appeared first on dynami.

Despite our best efforts at multi-tasking, and despite the fact it’s right there as a bullet point under “Skills” on our resume’ or listed on our LinkedIn profile, we have no more mastered multi-tasking than we’ve found a cure for the common cold, figured out exactly why yawns are contagious, or why it is that we sometimes have odd dreams involving people or things we haven’t thought about in years. A friend of mine’s sister said she once dreamed she’d fallen in love with, and was blissfully married to, a strip of  … bacon. Go figure!

Sure, we’re able to juggle multiple tasks in a set period of time, pinballing from one to the other then back again. But at what cost? In recent years, researchers have concluded multi-tasking is a misconception, not a reality. A Stanford University study states there are very real cognitive costs when we attempt to multi-task:

“ … research has shown that when people switch between tasks, there’s often a ‘Cognitive Penalty’ in terms of time and mental energy. This is called the ‘Switch Cost’, as the brain needs time to refocus on the new task, which results in slower performance and decreased accuracy. When switching tasks, part of our attention remains on the previous task. This concept, known as ‘Attention Residue’, reduces efficiency, especially when frequent task-switching occurs.”

Another study [University of London] found that multitasking could temporarily lower our IQ by 10 points, similar to the effects of sleep deprivation or marijuana use. And a more recent study specifically calls out diminished productivity when multi-tasking involves computers and smart devices which certainly applies to all of us in 2024.

So where am I going with this …?

Success Routines

Now that we know multi-tasking isn’t really a thing, it becomes very important to create our own “Success Routines”, habitual behaviors that yield greater focus, as well as higher levels of productivity and excellence. Discipline is the foundation of all success routines. It helps us build consistency, improve efficiency, and reduce the stress we may feel when there is much to be done and little time to do it.

Routines also help us establish a rhythm that leads to consistent progress. Success doesn’t typically occur overnight, so routines provide the structure necessary to steadily work towards established goals. We’re not just doing the same thing each day over and over, we’re doing it at increasing levels of excellence.  Repetition, repetition, repetition … success! [Rinse and repeat.]

When repetitive tasks evolve into comfortable established routines, we conserve time and mental energy since we have eliminated the need to rethink every step. We act more instinctively and intentionally which leads to achievement.

And knowing what to expect each day also helps reduce decision fatigue and stress. Routines are like guardrails or lane stripes on our own personal highway. They’re familiar and they guide us forward, ensuring we’re always headed in the right direction. When we follow a set routine, we spend less time worrying about what needs to be done next.

Each New Day

For years, I have put my daily workout routine on my calendar. It’s a regular reminder that my day is not a success without carving out time for my physical health. The very act of entering something on a calendar, written or digital, that I already know I will do reinforces my commitment. It’s an acknowledgement that working out is a priority and it reminds me to honor that priority.

Silly as it may sound, I also assign a specific time for daily lunch. When we work from home, as most of us do at least part of the time these days, we have a tendency to work through lunch, save it for later then suddenly it’s late afternoon. And if I’ve scheduled lunch with a friend or business colleague, I abide by a strict, pre-set time frame [i.e., 60 minutes max] then it’s on to the next priority. We also often forget to build in time for a quick break, to simply get up from time-to-time, stretch, walk outdoors and breathe some fresh air which rejuvenates us, etc.

Another thing I like to do is block out time to read each day, whether it’s an online blog or article, a business book, or a novel. Reading stimulates my brain while relaxing my body, and I’d like to believe reading each day makes me a smidge smarter or more knowledgeable than I was yesterday.

We’re on the cusp of that time of year when everything gets a little busier. OK, a lot busier. We may think work slows as the year winds down but the reality is, work continues and there’s also year-end close-out activity if you’re on a standard fiscal calendar. Plus, we will soon have myriad family and social obligations, personal travel, shopping and cooking and wrapping that all come with the holidays. In November and December and then at the onset of the New Year, we’re busier and more distracted than ever. More reason to follow a success routine!

Routines can sometimes feel mundane and perhaps a bit monotonous, but they help us move towards a predictable outcome. Doing the right things the right way at the right time, over and over again, keeps us on track to achieve our goals – personally and professionally. The key thing is to simply get started. Just Do It as our friends in Beaverton have told us since 1988, or like the ancient proverb states: The journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step. That first step and the second and the third and the final one are equally important but none more important than setting a goal, getting started, and sticking with it.

What are some of your success routines? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Cheers!

Kenneth Jones

The post Routinely Succeeding Requires Succeeding at Routines appeared first on dynami.

True confessions, I sorta made up the phrase “pro-planning”. It’s a shortened version of “pro-active planning” which to me is the difference between thinking you might do something and knowing you will do something.

The cornerstone of “pro-planning” is deliberate intentionality, but not deliberate intentionality existing in a vacuum. Pro-planning is successful when it’s done on purpose with an established goal in mind, all based on the gathering of empirical data, F2F conversations, sharing perspectives and experiences with colleagues and attendees and, above all, having an open mind when it comes to candid feedback [whether it’s gushing and glowing, or it stings and hurts].

So where am I going with this?

Those of us who toil in the corporate meetings and events space – whether on the client side or vendor side – are well aware of the importance of collecting feedback from a program for the purpose of making the next program even more successful. But how many of us go to the seashore and collect seashells with all good intentions of doing amazing and creative things with them when we get home, only to discover a year later those same seashells in the same grocery store bag you brought home from the shore a year earlier.

That’s where the word “deliberate” enters the picture. [FYI: The word comes from the Latin deliberare which means “considered carefully”.] Are we truly doing something amazing and creative with the input/feedback we gather – considering it carefully when beginning the planning/design/budgeting phase of a meeting or event? Or do we discover this input and feedback in a well-intended but unused file somewhere a year later when it’s too late?

Anticipating and fully understanding your audience’s specific event expectations is crucial for ensuring a successful and engaging experience. Some of the tips below will be reminders, some you’ll be familiar with but haven’t yet acted upon, and others will be all-new, fresh ideas that can turbo-charge your upcoming meeting and event experience.

PRO-PLANNING Phase 1 [Pre-Event]

• Anticipate Questions and Concerns – Begin by putting yourself in the seat of an audience member and think about the questions and/or concerns they might have. Gather and notate these. But that’s not enough. Read on …

• For goodness sakes, do the obvious! – Carefully research and understand your audience by reaching out to them in advance, being mindful of the fact that, yes, there are common, overlapping expectations and learning priorities but each attendee also brings with them their own needs. Do everything you can to incorporate their input and stated desires into content, sessions, activities, etc. Know your audience’s age range and experience, including median age and years in the industry; gender breakdown; learning styles, etc. Be thorough in your research because the time and effort you put in up-front will make a world of difference on the back-end. Added bonus: Providing them the opportunity to offer you their personal perspectives will make invitees feel invested in the success of the upcoming program.

• Pre-Program Surveys and Polls – Send surveys or polls to invitees in advance of your event, and early enough in the planning cycle to be able to utilize the best-of-the-best input. Ask invitees about their personal expectations of the event, topics of interest, preferred session formats [i.e., large group, breakout, interactive, etc.], and encourage them to ask any questions – then follow up ASAP with responses. Use this feedback to design and shape your event content accordingly.

• Interactive Event Apps – Yes, they’ve been around for 15-20 years but have you checked out the robust features of today’s customized event apps versus the clunky earlier versions we thought at the time were revolutionary? Today’s event apps allow attendees to create highly detailed profiles, detail their personal interests and expectations of the program, and the ability to personalize their schedules. Other app features include live audience polling, interactive and live Q&A sessions, and networking opportunities based on attendee profiles. You can leverage these feature before, during, and after the event.

• “Just for Me” Content Tracks – When designing your program, seek to minimize your cattle-herding general sessions and spend only as much time in the Grand Ballroom as you truly need. Attendees tend to engage more [and glean more from] sessions that are less formal, include back-and-forth exchanges, the ability to collaborate in teams, and the chance to learn in hands-on fashion. A variety of pick-and-choose content tracks or sessions that cater to specific interests or knowledge needs [identified through pre-event attendee profiles or registration data] ensures each attendee is exposed to personally relevant content throughout the event.

• Build in Outta-Nowhere WOW! Moments – Incorporate unexpected elements or bring surprise guests onstage who are relevant and appeal to your audience. This will help to create memorable experiences and exceed attendee expectations.

PRO-PLANNING Phase 2 [Event / Post-Event]

• AI, VR, AR … Alphabet Soup! – To the extent you can since it’s still a new frontier we’re all exploring, incorporate Artificial Intelligence, as well as Virtual Reality and/or Augmented Reality. VR or AR experiences can simulate real-life scenarios related to your event theme. This tends to enhance engagement and provide attendees with immersive learning opportunities aligned with their specific interests. Also, leveraging AI can help you save time on some of the more mundane tasks but always be sure to double- and triple-check accuracy, balance and completeness of any content sourced from AI.

• Further, in Keeping with Today’s Technology … – Encourage attendees to participate actively on social media platforms using event-specific hashtags. Display live social media feeds or host real-time Q&A sessions where speakers or panelists address questions directly from social media. Also, incorporate gamification elements such as challenges, quizzes, or scavenger hunts related to event content. Offer rewards or recognition for participation and achievements, which motivates attendees to engage more actively and deeply with the event.

• Adapt Presenters’ Communication Style – Encourage your presenters to adapt and align their communication style/delivery to match the stated learning preferences and personality makeup of your audience. This includes tone, level of formality, use of technical jargon or simplified language, attire, etc.

• “Just the facts, please, just the facts.” – Curate and organize your content in a logical fashion and present it clearly and succinctly. Avoid unnecessary details and focus on delivering key messages effectively. Prioritize the have-to-know messaging and leave the nice-to-know stuff for another occasion. Encourage your presenters to engage with the audience and to ask for on-the-fly feedback with on-the-spot responses.

• Extend the Memorable Event Experience – After the event, send timely personalized follow-up emails or communications based on attendee interactions and preferences during the event. Provide additional resources, recordings of sessions, or exclusive content that aligns with their interests. Also, provide requested follow-up and support. This demonstrates your commitment to their satisfaction and success.

• Post-Event Data-Gathering – Implement a structured feedback mechanism immediately after the event to gather fresh and specific insights as to what worked well and areas for improvement in the future. Then remember to break out this treasure trove of information on Day 1 of the planning cycle for next year’s event. Be a pro-planner!

By being deliberate and intentional, you will have anticipated, researched and designed your meeting or event to best meet the general and specific needs of your audience members. This enhances the meeting and event experience, builds credibility, increases the effective ROI of your program, and helps positively impact your bottom-line.

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

The post Do Your Event Outcomes Align with Your “Pro-Planning”? appeared first on dynami.

The oft-covered song Everybody’s Talking begins, “Everybody’s talkin’ at me. I don’t hear a word they’re saying … “

Sound familiar?

Or were you not completely tuned in to what was being said?

In a recent lengthy article in Harvard Business Review, co-authors Robin Abrahams, Research Associate at Harvard Business School, and Boris Groysberg, a professor of Business Administration in the university’s Organizational Behavior unit, write:

“Listening is a skill that’s vitally important, sadly undertaught, and physically and mentally taxing. In the aftermath of Covid-19, particularly with the shift to remote work and the red-hot job market, it’s never been more important — or more difficult — for leaders to be good listeners.”

So, here are nine things to keep in mind if you desire to become a more active listener …

REPEAT THE OTHER PERSON’S LAST FEW WORDS BACK TO THEM.

Doing this helps the other person feel they’re being listened to and believe what they have to say matters to you. It also helps keep both of you on track in the discourse while providing a momentary pause for each participant to gather thoughts or bounce back from an emotional reaction to something said or expressed.

RESIST THE TEMPTATION TO INSERT YOUR OWN WORDS … UNLESS NECESSARY.

Direct repetition works, even though it may feel unnatural. Rephrasing what the other person has said, however, can increase tension and mental load on both parties. No need to add your own “spin” to what was just shared with you [and we all do it]. Having said that, if clarity is lacking, it’s okay to say, “Just to be sure I fully understand what you said, I’m going to put this in my own words. Let me know if I’ve missed anything or if I misunderstood you.”

OFFER NONVERBAL CUES THAT SHOW YOU’RE LISTENING … IF IT COMES NATURALLY TO YOU.

Unspoken communication such as eye contact, attentive posture, nodding and other nonverbal cues are important. But paying attention to someone’s words is hard if you’re too busy reminding yourself to make regular eye contact. If these listening signals don’t come naturally to you, simply let the other party know at the outset of the conversation that you tend to be on the non-reactive side, ask for their patience and understanding, assure them you are indeed listening  … and advise them to never sit across from you at a poker table!

TUNE IN TO NONVERBAL CUES.

Truly active listening means paying attention to both the explicit and implicit info being expressed by the speaker. Nonverbal cues such as tone, facial expressions and body language are typically where the motivation and emotion behind the words is emphasized – basically, it’s the added “oomph” to the words spoken. Which means it’s important to the person speaking. Take note!

ASK, ASK … AND ASK AGAIN.

Asking questions [even if you sense you’re asking too many] sends a signal to the other person that you’re engaged, and you’re truly listening to them. Doing this improves the other person’s experience of feeling heard and having their perspective validated; ensures you fully comprehend  their message; and can ensure no important details have been overlooked.

CLEAR YOUR MIND … AND YOUR DEVICES.

Take steps to minimize or eliminate potential noise, interruptions, and other external distractions, as well as any internal distractions such as a wandering mind, the urge to check your watch or gaze out a window, etc. If you find yourself preoccupied with something other than the conversation you’re having, do what’s necessary to reel it in and refocus. If you anticipate a conversation will be challenging, upsetting, or potentially confrontational, calm yourself as much as possible before going in.

OWN YOUR SHORTCOMINGS.

If you know before a conversation you may be a subpar listener — whether due to being fatigued by other intense conversations that day, being unfamiliar with the topic to be addressed, or some other reason — let the other person know right away. [i.e., “Bear with me, it’s been a challenging day today …” or “Help me better understand what we’re discussing. You know more about this than I do …”, etc.] If you drift off and believe you’ve missed something, apologize and ask the person to repeat themselves.

THE BIGGIE: NEVER REHEARSE YOUR RESPONSE WHILE THE OTHER PERSON IS TALKING!

Briefly pause after a person finishes speaking to send the signal you’ve been listening, you understand what they said, and you’re now beginning the process of formulating your response. This requires intentional effort.  Human brains think four times faster than people talk, so you may feel you’re ahead of them but resist the urge to respond too soon. It’s OK to pause, reflect and react … but only after they finish speaking.

KEEP YOUR PERSONAL EMOTIONS IN CHECK.

If you feel yourself reacting emotionally – strongly disagreeing, taking offense, or feeling the need to defend somebody or something – breathe. Slow the discussion down a bit, especially your end of things. Do more repetition and pay attention to your breathing. At all costs, avoid responding in a manner that will cause the other person to withdraw or disengage entirely. Having said that, this doesn’t give you permission to automatically [and self-righteously] tune out what you don’t want to hear, or rush to discount it or argue it away.

I quoted the co-authors of the study at the head of this post and I believe it’s worth restating: “Listening is a skill that’s vitally important, sadly undertaught, and physically and mentally taxing. … It’s never been more important — or more difficult — for leaders to be good listeners.” While many, if not all, of these tips may not come across as blockbuster insights for some of you, I’d be willing to bet 100% of us could use them as great reminders.

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

The post 9 Ways to Use Active Listening to Become a Better Leader appeared first on dynami.

Last week, Apple unveiled its new Apple Intelligence system [a clever twist on the acronym AI, BTW] which promises to make life a little easier for conference planners and attendees. Through a deal with OpenAI, ChatGPT will now be available on Apple smart devices. While I believe the most immediate impacts will benefit association planners and attendees, those planning attending command-performance corporate meetings and events will benefit, too. In either case, there are some really cool features that promise to keep everyone involved up-to-date and well-informed on all conference related information.

Consider …

• A planner can now ask, “When is my CEO’s flight supposed to land?” and immediately flight details will be researched, aggregated and cross-referenced for accuracy within milliseconds.
• Another new feature is an event e-ticket design which includes an event guide, maps and floorplans, nearby restaurant recommendations, venue-related info, and more.
• For attendees listening to and reading in a non-native language, a new app uses AI for speech recognition and translation.
• And for those who dread writing event-related copy or correspondence, the new system includes Writing Tools which will proofread, rewrite and summarize tech text. This summarization is available on the Notes and Phone app and allows users to record, transcribe, and identify key information. Bingo, a ton of time saved!
• There is also a feature that prioritizes messages and notifications in iMessage; stacks them in order of importance; and consolidates longer messages into the most salient points.
• On a fundamental level, there will be live updates for third-party apps like Uber, as well as alerts for impending bad weather.

No doubt, these new features will pressure existing event companies to double-down on maximally leveraging AI for the optimal user experience. And for planners and attendees, the promise of mitigating some of the usual event-related stress and confusion can only be sweet music to everyone’s ears!

WOWdorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique

While traveling recently, I had the opportunity to do a hard hat tour of the soon-to-come Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique in the gorgeous Guanacaste province of the Central American country.

Despite being in late-middle phase of construction, I was very impressed by the location, the exclusivity, focus on luxury, and the possibilities for corporate meetings and events, as well as incentives.

With a targeted opening this coming November, here’s a rundown of what promises to become one of the premier jewels in Hilton’s luxury portfolio:

• 10,000sf of indoor and outdoor meeting and event spaces perfect for hosting small to large groups
• 190 accommodations [standard, deluxe and suites], all ocean-facing
• A sprawling Holistic Wellness Center, consisting of a full-service Fitness Center featuring today’s leading-edge workout equipment; Movement Studio, Lap and Thermal Pools; and outdoor yoga spaces.
• A luxurious cenote-inspired spa with 11 planned treatment rooms — eight standard indoor rooms and three outdoor rooms reminiscent of a treehouse. [A cenote is a natural pit or sinkhole created when a limestone bedrock collapses, exposing groundwater. The term originated in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico and is in keeping with Costa Rica’s reputation as one of the world’s eco-gems.]
• A signature 3-meal restaurant and bar.
• A Beach Club with watersports, including swimming, paddleboarding and boating
• 41 planned private residences

Perhaps what struck me the most was the property’s location on a dramatic cliffside peninsula of Cacique canton in the increasingly popular Guanacaste Province. You’ll enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Bay of Papagayo, creating a rich sense of elegance and exclusivity. Many eco-friendly specialties have been integrated, including special corridors to protect wildlife in the area and the exclusive use of electric cars to lessen environmental impact. Again, a typical Costa Rican touch.

Located approximately 10 miles [25 minutes] from Liberia International Airport [Code: LIR], Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique is within an hour’s drive of many of the area’s most popular environmental destinations and activities. There are also nearly 150 restaurants within five miles.

Yes, you will pay for this level of luxury with group rates likely starting north of $1,200 per night++. But if you’re seeking a hot, new property that will have your attendees or incentive winners buzzing, you can’t do better. Truly, this property is a mix of Guanacaste’s aesthetic and natural beauty and the unparalleled luxury of the Waldorf brand. It is already a leading candidate for two programs dynami is currently planning.

Cheers and … Pura Vida!

Kenneth Jones

The post Heads Up! A Couple of Bright Lights on the Horizon! appeared first on dynami.

Let’s Start with the Real Story

Within moments of encountering John – whether in person, in an audience, or over the phone – certain things become quite obvious.

He is humble and sincere.

He is genuinely warm and friendly.

He’s easy to talk to and puts the other person at ease in a moment when fresh introductions often feel awkward.

John is not fond of being the center of attention [he saves that for his message].

He is whatever the opposite of self-aggrandizing is.

He cares. He genuinely cares … about other people, including you.

You also quickly learn some things about John that might surprise you. Actually, they do surprise you.

John is introverted and innately shy.

He’s not fond of crowds.

And he doesn’t like bright light.

Wait, what …? Shy, uncomfortable in crowds, and averse to bright light. You know, all elements of a corporate meeting or event – a stage, large audience, and lumen-happy stage lighting.

Yet he’s making a living as a motivational speaker? Yes … and what a speaker he is!

The Back Story

As a young, curious and explorative boy, John did what most any nine-year-old would do … what the older guys on the block were doing. It’s a coming-of-age thing that all boys experience as they seek to find their way in a big, wide, often confusing world. At that tender age, fitting in matters.

He was in the family garage back in St. Louis. There was a can of gasoline, a pack of matches, a sense of wonder … and you already know this is a story that won’t turn out well. [You may be surprised.]

The blast sent young John hurtling across the garage and slammed him into a wall. The flames were so forceful, the garage was a total loss and nine-year-old John ended up with burns over 100% of his body.

He was given a 1% chance of survival … a 1% chance.

Think about that for a moment. A kid being told there’s a 99% chance he won’t live long enough to ride a bike again, play catch in the backyard, celebrate a double-digit birthday, chase his dreams, or kiss his first date. Let that sink in.

As he lay in his bed in the hospital, swathed in bandages and enveloped by intense pain, he heard his mother’s voice.

“Mom,” he asked, “am I going to be okay?”

Sensing the need for brutally pure truth at a moment when most of us would do what we thought was the kind thing and sugar-coat the horrific, seemingly hopeless situation, his mother rallied her courage and did something miraculous in itself.

“John,” she said, “do you want to die? It’s your choice, not mine.”

Young John thought for a moment and responded: “Mom, I don’t want to die. I want to live.”

That was 37 years ago. John is alive and more than well. And he is amazing.

Everybody’s Got Something

“If you think you can’t, you won’t,” John says matter-of-factly. “And if you think you can’t but still want to try, you’ll succeed. It’s that simple.” Says the man who spent five of his boyhood months lying in a hospital, enduring dozens and dozens of surgeries and, later, years of physical therapy.

“If you think you can’t but still want to try, you’ll succeed. It’s that simple …”

As we dash through our lives – rising and readying for work, getting kids off to school, running errands, doing all the things that need to be done – we’re often so consumed by our own pressing priorities that we’re oblivious to what’s going on with others.

Imagine standing in a long line at a corner Starbucks and there are thought bubbles floating over the heads of each person in front of you. They might read …

I just got divorced.

I lost my job.

My kid’s a mess.

A cancer diagnosis at 37 …?

How am I going to make rent this month?

The point is everybody’s got something. Nobody gets through life without a few scrapes and bruises. Okay, a lot of scrapes and bruises. And in one young man’s case, more than a few burns. But the challenges, the setbacks, the sometimes horrific occurrences can only define you if you let them.

“It’s how you deal with things that matter most. It takes perseverance, and perseverance starts with showing up,” John says. “We often make the guy on stage speaking to an audience the hero. The one who was so broken, or so badly burned, in such bad shape, and somehow managed to overcome. That was me. But the heroes were all the people behind me. My guardians, my siblings, my parents, the doctors and nurses, even the janitors cleaning the hospital every day.

“Those people changed the life of a little boy that wasn’t supposed to make it. And now that little boy, me, is trying to change the lives of others for the better. To help them understand, no matter what, if you want to succeed, if you want to overcome, if you want to find hope when there doesn’t seem to be hope anywhere, you will.

“It comes down to perseverance and ‘the breath’ – living and breathing in the moment, the now, and doing the very best you can with what you’ve got. Right now.”

Nearly four decades after that horrifying day in a St. Louis garage, John O’Leary is the living, breathing, walking, talking personification of that philosophy. He has taught millions around the globe how to live an inspired life, day in and day out.

Despite the crowds, his shy nature and bright stage lights, he has spoken in all but one of the 50 states, dozens of countries around the world, and authored two books – the curiously titled On Fire: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life [March 2016]and In Awe: Rediscover Your Childlike Wonder to Unleash Inspiration, Meaning and Joy [May 2020]. And this fall, a major motion picture will be released chronicling John’s life journey.

dynami booked John as a motivational speaker before an audience of several hundred in Las Vegas earlier this year. In keeping with his message of perseverance, he somehow managed to make it to Vegas in time for his keynote address despite weather-driven flight cancellations, a mad dash to alternative airports in Southern California, and finally a 275-mile drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas.

When I tell you John was outstanding, I’m grossly understating matters. I don’t know if I’ve ever heard a more inspiring speaker.

A 1% chance to live. A 99% likelihood of dying … and 96.87%. That was his approval rating in our post-event survey of the audience.

Need I say more?

Cheers,

Kenneth

P.S. – Learn more about John O’Leary at www.johnolearyinspires.com

The post John O’Leary: A Bold Message of Tragedy, Perseverance, Triumph … And Selflessness appeared first on dynami.

Sphere of Big Influence

Rapidly becoming a Vegas icon just east of The Strip, Sphere is venturing from its music and entertainment roots and moving into corporate meetings and events for the first time with what promises to be a Wowza! experience when Hewlett-Packard Enterprise [HPE] uses the venue for its keynote address at HPE Discover this summer.

HPE CEO Antonio Neri will deliver his Welcome Speech June 18 on Day 2 of the four-day event intended to give attendees a glimpse of what’s to come in Artificial Intelligence [AI] on the not-too-distant horizon.

Opened in September 2023, Sphere has become quite the chatter-magnet for its unique design,  captivating visual effects, supreme acoustics, and truly immersive, 4-D live experiences. What makes this event truly noteworthy is the bold — and likely very costly — reimagining of corporate events that goes beyond mere good intentions to engage and inspire attendees, and truly delivers against that goal. [When I say costly, consider that advertising alone on the venue’s exterior runs an eye-popping $450,000 … per day!]

With seating for 17,600 and featuring a 160,000-square-foot LED screen that wraps up, over and around the audience, Sphere is a venue on a never-before-seen scale. Think otherworldly planetarium on steroids. In addition to the unlimited visual effects made possible by the enormity and flexibility of the projection surfaces, each seat is WiFi-equipped and includes Sphere Immersive Sound powered by HOLOPLOT, delivering precise, crystal-clear sound no matter where you’re sitting. Literally, every cubic inch of the attendee space is filled with perfectly equalized audio.

The exterior of Sphere, called the Exosphere – and basically a $450k-a-day digital billboard — is the largest LED screen on the planet, consisting of more than 1.2 million LED pucks that enable more than one billion color-hue options. Even the pickiest of planners and logo cops will find the perfect shade of whatever color anchors their branding. Operators of the venue have had fun with the Exosphere in its first six months of operation, turning the gigantic orb into a brilliant orange Jack O’ Lantern last October and a colossal, swirling snow globe during the December holidays.

Looking for a cool venue for your next major meeting or event? Book now … and open that wallet of yours really, really, really wide.

Speaking of Budgeting …

I suspect the first meeting or event ever booked carried with it budget constraints, budget concerns, and budget headaches. If there’s one constant in the life of a corporate planner, it involves dollars and cents/sense and a whole lotta pressure.

Guess what …? Nothing has changed in 2024 except perhaps the tautness of the budgetary belt.

We all know we’ve been stuck in an inflationary rut for quite a while and we can expect to see especially elevated costs at hotels and other meeting venues as they scramble to backfill losses incurred during the pandemic, and cost run-ups due to supply chain snags, labor challenges, and difficulty in filling key staff positions with experienced, senior-level people.

A recent poll of 500 planners conducted by American Express Meetings & Events found an expectation of cost hikes ranging from 3.5-4% across all meeting types in 2024. That’s on top of escalating prices the last two years. Included in these higher hotel costs are food and beverage, labor, power, and insurance. Basically, planners are expected, more than ever, to do more with less. [So much for the glam life of a planner, right?]

What’s driving this is an overdemand for meeting space and hotel rooms as companies settle back into a rhythm of F2F meetings that had gone AWOL for a while, replaced by Zoom or Microsoft Teams calls, hybrid events, or outright event cancellations.

There’s always hope …

Nevertheless, there are ways to mitigate your monetary concerns and still deliver a first-class event. Let’s take a closer look …

First and foremost, get ahead of your challenges! If you get in front of a problem or a challenge, it’s much, much easier to negotiate better prices, more meaningful concessions, and added touches that cost you nothing. Now try to do that in arrears and you’ll end up with a big bill and an even bigger post-event reconciliation headache.

Be candid with your team, your vendors, your venue candidates and, of course, your client. Help them understand there are limitations to what you can promise and deliver upon, and creativity is the name of the game when budgets are tight.

Understanding there’s always a cost to do something, step back and take a broader look at your preferences. This where the “dollars and sense” thing kicks in.

Do you really need to be city-center … or would a venue a few miles away make better sense financially?

Does your program have to take place in the springtime … or would a date several months later yield more lucrative pricing?

Is everyone expecting to attend absolutely necessary … or can you whittle your invitee list down to mission-critical folks who can later cascade learnings to others when they return?

Florals and décor are a nice touch  … but do you really need those Birds-of-Paradise centerpieces flown in from Central America?

Is that activity-filled afternoon on your agenda — the one packed with Segway tours and shopping, golf and pickleball — really what everyone wants … or would attendees be just as happy striking out on their own for a few hours, catching a nap, or hanging out with colleagues at the patio bar for a round or two?

Give some extra thought to the length of your conference. Is everything in v.1 of your proposed agenda absolutely necessary … or could you pare that agenda back a bit to save a day of lodging, F&B, space rental, audio-visual gear, power-pull, staffing, etc.?

You get my point. Though it may conflict with your initial vision of the perfect meeting or event, there are always smart corners that can be cut in the interest of cost-savings without sacrificing the richness and quality of your gathering.

On that last point above about meeting length, I’m surprised any time I see a Closing General Session as the only item on the final-day agenda before departures. My question: Do you really need to hold onto that A-V gear and crew an extra day or could send-off remarks be delivered as part of the previous afternoon/evening activities? Even in instances where there’s a final round or two of breakouts on the last day of your program, go ahead and strike the General Session room and save yourself some money.

One more thing …

Designing a time-efficient, no-fat agenda can actually be a blessing in disguise. As most writers, painters, and project managers will tell you, deadline pressure tends to elicit their most efficient and creative work. There’s an old saying, “Need a project done well, give it to a busy man or woman.” It’s true.

Tighter time constraints force you into creating smarter, crisper event designs and tighter, more clearly thought-out presentations minus the fluff that tends to creep into all presenter scripts and PowerPoint decks. This is a great time to study or re-study the TED Talks model which emphasizes engaging, to-the-point presentations that max out at 18 minutes, and are oftentimes shorter. Basically, it’s “Get on stage, make your point, get off stage … and don’t suck!”

At dynami, we’re proud of the fact we’ve never once in our 20 years in business blown a budget. Yes, many [well, most] budgets change along the way but these amendments are delineated, approved, and signed-for in advance to ensure there are never any non-approved, incremental expenditures. As your partner, we proactively identify and target cost-savings early in the planning process and, along the way, never stop looking for creative and effective ways to stretch your dollar so you can deliver maximum impact.

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

The post A Bold New Venture For Sphere… And A Reminder About Budgeting appeared first on dynami.

For reasons so 2020, this was a big day for me. But I made a major rookie mistake … 

_____________

I’ll come back to the rookie mistake in just a minute.

My make-up was just right, hair done the way I like it, and a little spritz of Decadence by Marc Jacobs rounded out the ensemble. It was incredible to be back in the proverbial saddle. It may sound silly to be so excited about a routine task but … I was actually doing a real-life, one-on-one, face-to-face [actually mask-to-mask] site inspection a couple of weeks ago.

And it felt so good!

For the first time in too long, a client asked me to look into resort properties within comfortable driving distance of Atlanta – Ritz-Carlton Lake Oconee, Château Élan in Braselton, Grove Park Inn in Asheville, etc. The event is an international leadership program for 200 attendees in October, three days/four nights, mostly business with one afternoon of legitimate team-building tossed in.

This particular day, I was visiting Château Élan where they’ve gone to great lengths to upgrade safety protocols for these crazy times. The door handles at the Grand Entrance had been replaced with slick new, long handles that you pull from the bottom and hand sanitizer is automatically dispensed. Upon entry, a hotel staff member checks your temperature with a tablet, there are directional arrows on the floors throughout, and pathways are clearly marked. Everyone was masked and I’m sure we were all smiling behind the cloth because old-fashioned event business was being conducted.

It felt amazing to be doing something work-related that was onsite, real and engaging versus a stale interaction conducted in the germophobic Zoomisphere.

We were all careful to maintain our distance, and only remove masks when eating. But we walked together and talked together and it felt like the good ol’ days. I could sense a genuine lifting of spirits, the kind of work-related excitement and happiness I hadn’t felt since March. 

I actually saw early signs of a meeting happening!

It was also apparent to me the pent-up demand to escape quarantine was matched only by the pent-up demand to engage with others. In the absence of business programs, wedding business had helped the property keep its head above water so, with a biz program in the offing, I’m not sure who was happier – them to see me, or me to see them.

I’m no industry oracle so I can only guess where we’ll be in 2021. My fingers are crossed for a return to normal [however we define that, going forward]. But after having gotten back on-property, to me, the sun seems brighter, the birds are chirping more sweetly, and I’ve come to appreciate baby steps are better than no steps at all. We’ve all learned a lot in these trying times and I suspect meetings of the future will be a hybrid of F2F and virtual, leveraging the technology we’ve all learned to master this year.

But for the first glorious day in six long months, I was truly back in business … and it felt so good.

Now, about that rookie mistake …

Alas, my Tory Burches clearly didn’t appreciate the fact my feet had become more at-home in flip-flops over the course of spring and summer. [Hey, I live on a lake and “flips” are always fashion-forward!]

Blisters. Big, bad blisters.

I guess in the excitement of doing my first in-person site inspection in six months, I’d overlooked the fact I needed to ease back into dressy shoes like an athlete eases into pre-season workouts.

After almost 20 years in the corporate meetings and events industry [and knowing I’d be on my feet walking a large property for several hours] I should’ve known better. Wearing this particular pair of shoes that day was akin to Baryshnikov tripping on the threshold. So, I take responsibility for falling for a set-up by a pair of shoes.

No doubt about it, those cute, professional wedges were downright evil that day. Leave a dog home alone longer than usual and they’ll find a way to express their displeasure. Leave a pair of shoes sitting in the closet too long and they’ll find a way to make your life miserable from the ankles down.

But it was worth it!

Cheers,

Julie Thompson-Whelan

The post That’s My Tory Story … And I’m Stickin’ To It! appeared first on dynami.