How often do you go to a conference? A few times a year? Just once? Maybe you haven't been to a conference in years. If you haven't been to a conference in a while, you might be in for a surprise the next time you register and attend.

Finding ways to get event attendees engaged with your conference content when there are tons of other distractions is a growing concern of event planners the world over. From mobile apps, social media and live polling to games, texting and emails distractions are everywhere and it becomes increasingly difficult to have success with old-fashioned person-to-person connections. Here are some tips to improve engagement at your next event.

The Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) program was launched in 1985 to enhance the knowledge and performance of meeting professionals, promote the status and credibility of the meeting profession, and advance uniform standards of practice. The Event Industry Council proudly reports on their website that the CMP credential is recognized globally as the badge of excellence in the meeting, convention, exhibition, and event industry. The qualifications for certification are based on professional experience, education, and a rigorous exam.

As a professional event planner, you've certainly led your share of teams working to get an important job done. When everyone is on the same page, leading people isn't too tough, but what about when your team of helpers is full of very different personality types?

In any profession there are numerous challenges and different elements of the job people don’t enjoy. Sales certainly isn’t for everyone but after doing some reflection on my over 21 years in the hotel and meetings business, I came away with some potential insight that has not only helped me be successful in this industry, but be a happier person overall.

The Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau (GLCVB) is pleased to announce two changes to its Visitor Services department.