For Meeting Planners

I love to speak about leadership. I have a passion for leadership, but I also have a passion for telling others what I’ve learned through the years. One of my greatest joys is seeing audience members “get it” and have them tell me I’ve helped them become better leaders. I’ve spoken in just about every type of forum you can imagine and so I’m not terribly picky. I’ve always managed to get the the point across successfully. So, instead of obsessing about things like room arrangement, I want to spend my time learning about the client.

To that end, I’ve developed the following list of things that will help me do that.

- I need a contact within the organization from whom I can learn their unique needs, expectations, and likely audience composition. I will probably send them a survey, but will create it specifically for the client.

- I will create an introduction that is tailored to the specific audience, but I assure you I will make it available well in advance.

- I will most likely use slides and/or internet during the presentation. I will provide my own computer, but will need a projector and some sort of screen.

- For seminars and breakouts I need an easel with paper and markers. For some, I may need to post sheets on the wall. If so, I need tape, but it should be something that won’t ruin the wall. Masking tape is usually a bad idea.

- For seminars and breakouts each attendee needs room to write and a pen or pencil. I will provide a handout.

- I will provide critiques and if there is anything in particular you would like on the critique, let me know ahead of time and I’ll add it.

- I will arrive early to ensure all audio-visual equipment is set up and to get a feel for the venue. Please set a specific time when the right people will be available.

- The seating arrangement is always an issue. Again, I’m not too picky, but I do want the audience to be comfortable. So, please try to avoid seating where audience members have their back to me. Also, in the case of row seating, please remember this isn’t an airline. A little breathing room between seats really helps the presentation work.