Posts Tagged ‘meeting industry’

If you’re planning on working with a DMC for your next business destination, you’re making a smart choice that will save you time and effort, plus allow you take advantage of resources you didn’t know were available. What you need to know is that not all DMCs are created equal. This is one profession that you can’t just click on the first company that comes up in your online search. Fortunately, the experts have a few friendly tips for choosing a DMC that you know is worth partnering with.

Seek Referrals

For starters, ask around for referrals and recommendations. The local convention center and nearby hotels should have recommendations for you, and you can reach out to DMCs you worked with in the past. What you should find is two or three consistent DMC companies popping up, giving you the names you need to contact. You can also speak with other companies that have worked with the DMCs to see how their destination planning was handled.

Ask Questions

You should also take your search to the next level and speak with the referrals. Don’t just take the referrals for granted, but check them out yourself. For example, you can give the supplier a quick phone call and see if the DMC is organized, professional and easy to work with. DMCs should have positive relationships with outside suppliers in order to give you the best services possible.

Are They Associated?

Second, when you’ve narrowed down your search, check to see whether the DMCs are involved in an association marketplace. DMCs can live up to their expectations when they have a strong industry involvement and recognize what the current issues are. After all, the association market is far different from the corporate market, and it’s essential that DMCs understand the differences in these relationships.

In addition to checking with the DMCs industry involvement, you can also check for membership of a particular association. The DMC should at least be a member of the Association of Destination Marketing Executives (ADME), but there are other associations as well that the DMC may be members of. There is also a new designation and exam test that can be taken called the DMCP designation, which adds to the credibility of the DMC.

Check Insurance

Third, make sure that you request a certificate of insurance, as adequate insurance coverage is essential in today’s market. Also look for other factors of importance such as how long the DMC company has been in business, how many staff members are part of the company and what the cancellation policy is. You can also do a test run with the DMC by assigning them a small part of your destination planning. This will allow you to compare several different DMC companies and see their creative outlets, as well as their pricing structure.

Remember that most importantly, finding the right fit takes time and patience. Once you find the right DMC to partner with, you will have all the burdens of destination planning lifted from you, allowing you to focus on your core business values, while leaving the business trips to a successful DMC.

Image Source: globaltraveler.com

Happy Birthday, ACCENT! — Celebrating 20 Years in the Industry!

ACCENT on Arrangements-DMC is thrilled to celebrate 20 years of hard work and success in the meetings industry.

Since 1991, President and CEO Diane Lyons, and an ever-growing staff of meeting professionals, have provided award-winning children’s programs and convention services. Site selection, shuttle services, registration, décor and catering are just a few of the top-notch event planning services ACCENT can provide.

ACCENT now has over 90 years combined industry experience, and confidence that growth with continue based on intense drive and deep commitment to customer satisfaction.

Happy 20 years to ACCENT, and one to grow on!