SAACI news

Adding to your skills set

By Glenton de Kock, chief executive officer of SAACI

The business events sector has experienced a series of changes during 2020 - with the impact of Covid-19 as the main driver - as ‘the change of change’ has been added to our skillset as professionals.

While we may be doing certain aspects of our daily work automatically, the development of new skills to keep our professional attributes and knowledge up-to-date is a discussion that SAACI, as an association, is having regularly.

Upon reflecting on our conversations with colleagues, the general acceptance is that we all operate in a fluid environment. The need to upskill on the up-to-date knowledge of the latest restrictions and regulations released, Event Safety Guideline and planning documents, are core to any event you may be working on.

In addition, many venues within hotels must also comply with their overall group or internally developed safety guidelines as well. In our discussions with many members to better understand what they’re doing and seeing in their venues we have found that it is important to read and have conversations to ensure a better understanding of the regulations.

Members have also indicated that in reviewing past events, to take note of elements and touchpoints that would have had to be modified in accordance with Covid-19 safety guidelines. Our view is to have pre-mortems, instead of post mortems: For any planned business event, the intent is to create solutions for each potential pain point identified, so that when the time comes, the delivery of a Covid-safe and socially distanced event is second nature.

As we upskill ourselves on the regulations, our sector has shifted to virtual events. And while, in the interim, they are here to stay, whether they include an in-person component or not, we all need to have some basic familiarity with new technology and platforms—and how to troubleshoot is essential for event professionals. Having a working knowledge of what’s possible, and some familiarity with the biggest virtual platforms out there, will ensure that knowing basic troubleshooting for the inevitable technical difficulties, will rule out most challenges.

Technology has become more prevalent in our planning for business events and warranting that presenters and speakers know how to work the platform, which includes sharing presentations, will aid the quality of the delivery of your event.

One soft skill set that has become automatic is patience and empathy. When communicating with clients, vendors, or guests, never forget that the current climate is affecting everyone in different ways. Some are losing their livelihood, family members, friends, and jobs. Needs and values could have severely shifted from just a mere three months ago. It’s important to take the time to get to know your audience again, show them that you care. Speak with empathy, humility, and compassion.

We should remember that our industry is built on relationships. Taking the time to talk through problems and hear them out will help you to build stronger bonds with your clients in the long run.

With patience comes empathy— and with that, a more desirable business partner. No one wants to feel like they’re being rushed to make a decision (even if we do want to rush them to make a decision).