The Big Event to champion organiser best practice

Catchpole has also launched a dedicated conference to run as a complementary, physical forum at which the events industry can meet and discuss the issues that directly influence exhibitions, conferences, seminars and other events in the GCC region. The event will run 19-20 February 2003, Dubai.

Managing Director of The Big Event, John Woodward said, "Evolving and recognising the need for change is a key part of any business. In response to market conditions, the media and event management industry has been forced to review traditional approaches and develop innovative strategies to maximise competitive advantage". "It's not just moving with the times, it's more often about being ahead of the times! Change isn't just about the profile of an event, it's also about changing attitudes to how a business is run, staff managed, customer care and developing partnerships."

"Both The Big Event magazine and event, examines the role of the "Event" in the marketing mix, the part advertising agency, PR, marketing, CRM, business development and communications professionals play in the utilisation and development of the events industry; what impact the recession has had on the GCC event industry and who the key players are that are driving change in the sector" continued Woodward.

"As well as having a technology showcase in which suppliers to the industry can demonstrate new services and equipment, The Big Event will feature executive interviews, panel discussions and case study sessions covering such topics as: Evaluation of the Event Sector, Research, Partnerships, Changing Attitudes to Customer Service, New ideas for successful visitor promotion, Changing shows, Exhibition Sponsorship, Using technology for the marketing of shows and many more" said Woodward.

The event will also hold a series of event-dedicated training seminars for organisers, those who already participate the industry and those wanting to work in exhibitions and conferences. Topics of the seminars include "Attendance boosters", "Growth through acquisitions and other strategies for success", "Launching new shows: a step-by-step guide", "Sell is not a four-letter word" "Soup up your direct mail" "Conceiving, organising and marketing an exhibition", " Effective Exhibiting" and "Conference Administration".

"For those who want to enter the event industry we have a dedicated seminar. "So you want to Work As An Event Organiser" is for those who would like to get a job organising events and will cover an overview of the industry and its events, qualifications and training available, likely career paths and salaries, how to build a mailing list for CV's, where to look for jobs and resources available" said Woodward.