What Some Planners Wish All Planners Knew

About Partnering With a CVBEngaging thoughts from planners experienced

with getting the most from their destination experts

My InterviewsHello, my name is Terri Roberts and I work for DMAI, the trade association for visitors and convention bureaus, also known as destination marketing organizations.

As part of my work, I spend a lot of time talking with planners about the value they find in working with a CVB. It’s always fascinating and I always wish I could share what they find uniquely valuable with more planners…so, here are some of their thoughts compiled in an easy to read format.

I hope you enjoy their perspectives and are eager to connect with a CVB as you search to find the right fit for your next meeting.

Doug Wear, PhDWear & Associates

Managing a nonprofit, the board was interested in a competitive bid process and a level playing field as well as avoiding unnecessary middleman costs.

CVBs provide this. They also want to find the biggest bang for the buck. CVBs seem to have the reach to find the properties with the availability I need and the willingness to negotiate mutually beneficial contacts.

Donella EvoniukSenior Director, Conference Services

International Society for Technology in Education

A good CVB is like the silicon spray invented by Clark W. Griswold in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Remember, he sprayed it on the snow saucer to make it go faster and ended up rocketing down the hill at lightning speed?

A good CVB is like this spray – when applied properly, it eliminates friction and ensures that clients are able to achieve maximum speed and efficiency in their negotiations.

Jason WeinsteinDirector of National Events

AARPCVBs come to the table with skin in the game and a tremendous amount of clout. Their focus is to promote a specific geographic area and they have the support of the community to ensure success. The unbiased information and guidance we receive about the destination is invaluable when creating positive lasting memories of our event. Additionally, CVBs have the ability to advocate on behalf of their cities, providing valuable raw and finished marketing resources.

Jeff WillettDirector of Conferences

Quest International Users Group

CVBs are like “Ambassadors of Good Will:” initiating and fostering relationships, providing sound/accurate answers, offering alternatives, problem/conflict resolving, peace keeping, bringing parties together for the ultimate win/win.

Karen Miles, CMPSenior Meeting Planner, Meeting Services

American Physical Services Association

I, like most planners, do not have the time to go it alone in a very busy meeting department. The CVB is the one stop shop for all the destination information required for considering a meeting location.We rely on efficiency and thoroughness. The CVB saves us time with reviewing availability with just one exchange of the RFP.