Just what is a meeting planner, and how can I get to know one? (Focus: Business Travel/Meetings & Conventions)

Every meeting or event is planned with an objective. It can be to promote new products; plan strategies and inspire employees; reward individuals and motivate them to attain higher goals; or offer continuing education for medical, legal or accounting professionals.

A meeting can be a training seminar, an executive or medical conference or a large convention.

Today, meetings and conventions are a part of the $54 billion hospitality industry. A member of that industry, Lynne K. Tiras, CMP, president of International Meeting Managers Inc., submits the following guide to meeting planning. She says very little is known about the profession and even less is known about the benefits associated with contacting a meeting planner.

When an executive decision is made to plan an event, a conference or major convention, someone has to take charge of implementing the arrangements. The operation of a successful meeting is hard work and requires the attention of a well-organized and experienced person. …