Finding Humanity in a Divided World

What does Finding Humanity mean for the event industry today?

We all know that meetings can change the world- They connect, elevate and activate people. Our attendees feel better and then take better actions to move organizational initiatives forward. They learn new perspectives and solve problems.

This year, this concept of Humanity that I speak and write about is front and center of our consciousness because we all desperately need to feel a part of — to find connection points and unite on common ground instead of divide on differences.

Finding Humanity: The Evolution of Sales released on Jan 14^th, made best seller in numerous categories, and includes some amazing contributors from the meeting industry (as well as many other industries because HUMANITY is the ultimate connector). But the best part is that 100% of the net profit from this book goes to Alzheimer’s organizations.  We can’t just talk about humanity- we must ACTIVATE IT!

Just a few of the 40 contributors and their content include:

•Mike Dominguez: CEO of ALHI discussing the profound impact of the hospitality industry.
•Joe Fijol: Founder of Ethos Event Collective talking about purposeful planning.
•Carolyn Browning: Independent planner and founder of MEETing Needs on kindness in meetings.
•Jeff Welger: Corporate planner and philanthropist on the ‘business of selflessness’

Finding Humanity looks at belonging, recognition, engagement, purpose, kindness, releasing judgment, and more. It builds a bridge from where we are to where we want to go.

Top Nuggets to Ponder for Planners

If your company is cutting budgets for in-person meetings, go back to your WHY. Why have we done this in the past? Is this (or why is this) important to the future of the people in this organization?

People are our greatest business asset. If supporting your people comes after profit, you’re living in a short term mindset. Because long term, you know that developing, supporting, and engaging your people comes back in RESULTS.

“Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is not just a buzzword or a checkbox; it is a genuine commitment to making a positive impact on the communities in which we operate” ~Koleen Roach, Dir, meetings and conference management at Securian Financial Group.

Top Nuggets to Ponder for Suppliers

Finding Humanity in Sales is an entire chapter focused on the power of human connection and our ability to move beyond manipulation and competition to a higher level of sales service.

Ask— how can we be more inclusive? F&B expert Tracy Stuckrath says, “Whether at a workplace meeting or a social gathering, small details like accommodating dietary needs send a big message: You Matter.”

Our most precious resource of TIME can grab us and make us forget our humanity. But when we release our attachment to that, it opens us to be PRESENT and deepen our connections.

Opportunity to contribute your wisdom!

A senior planner from the insurance sector, and I are working on a white paper to ‘pull back the curtain’ on the reality of how things are working (or where they’re not) in the planning of events today. I’m not talking about rinse-repeat logistical planning. I’m talking about the need for planners to get a seat at the table earlier — to help them move content and experience into strategic conversation. Want IN? Contact me at Heather@HeatherHansenONeill.com and I’ll let you know about survey or focus group options. Your Voice Matters.

If we know that meetings can change the world, wouldn’t we want to look at how HUMANITY can change meetings??