By Mark Cooper, IACC
In a competitive marketplace where every venue is vying for the attention of meeting planners, standing out is no easy feat. That’s where IACC certification steps in. With its globally renowned standards and unique training opportunities, IACC helps your venue not only meet but exceed the expectations of event planners. Let’s explore how IACC membership equips your team and venue to sell better meetings.
Expand Your Reach Through Industry Events
IACC goes beyond training to actively promote certified venues at leading industry events. Certified members gain unparalleled exposure through:
• IMEX Europe and IMEX Americas: Engage directly with meeting planners in the IACC Global Village.
• Meeting Professionals International (MPI) World Education Congress: Present your venue to a global audience of conference buyers.
These events offer IACC members the most cost-effective way to exhibit and connect directly with decision-makers.
Unmatched Visibility Through MPI’s Venue Directory
As part of its longstanding partnership with MPI, IACC-certified venues are featured in the MPI Venue Directory. This platform provides:
• Access to over 17,000 meeting planners globally.
• A trusted resource where planners can find top-tier venues.
• A clear edge over competitors without similar visibility.
TIP: Make the most of this directory to attract new clients and reinforce your position as a premier venue.
Regular Online Sales Training for Your Success
IACC knows that successful sales stem from industry-specific expertise. That’s why they offer monthly webinar-based training designed to address the unique challenges faced by venues. Partnering with Master Connection Associates (MCA), these training sessions:
- Provide free access for all staff at IACC member venues.
- Cover advanced techniques to effectively market IACC-certified properties.
- Enable learning from both seasoned trainers and other IACC members globally.
TIP: Integrate these webinars into your team’s regular meetings for a collective learning experience.
Tailored Classroom Training for Your Sales Team
Take your team’s expertise to the next level with IACC’s classroom training workshops, which address the nuances of selling IACC-certified venues. These workshops focus on:
• Selling the IACC Difference: Essential skills for standing out from typical venues.
• Strategic Positioning: Advanced negotiation tactics and account management.
• Presenting the IACC Difference: Perfecting presentations to impress planners.
These sessions are based on direct feedback from meeting planners, ensuring your team learns exactly what resonates with buyers.
Leverage IACC Certification in Your Marketing
Your IACC certification is a powerful asset in positioning your venue. Use it to:
• Build trust by prominently displaying the IACC logo on your website, marketing materials, and proposals.
• Enhance your credibility in directories like Cvent and Elite Meetings.
• Share press releases announcing your certification and related successes, such as competition wins or new initiatives.
TIP: Highlighting your IACC status guarantees meeting planners that your venue delivers an exceptional experience.
The IACC Meetings Experience: Quality That Stands Out
IACC certification is a promise of excellence. It reflects your commitment to providing:
- World-class facilities tailored for meetings.
- Exceptional food and beverage services.
- Sustainable and innovative meeting solutions.
TIP: Reinforce this promise in every proposal and client interaction, assuring planners of the superior experience your venue delivers.
Your Venue Page on IACCmeetings.com
Every IACC member receives a dedicated page on IACC’s official website. This page serves as a:
- Showcase for your venue’s unique offerings.
- Tool to attract buyers with updated images, room capacities, and event details.
- Platform for ongoing engagement with planners.
TIP: Keep your page updated to maximize its potential and continuously attract new leads.
Engage Your Team for Greater Impact
Your team is at the forefront of showcasing the IACC difference. Involve them by:
- Including IACC training in new hire onboarding.
- Discussing IACC membership in regular sales meetings.
- Encouraging participation in IACC events and webinars.
TIP: A well-informed and motivated team can effectively communicate the value of your IACC certification to clients, helping you secure more bookings.
Conclusion: Transform Your Venue with IACC Membership
Most venues promise quality; IACC-certified venues guarantee it. With access to expert training, unmatched marketing opportunities, and a network of industry leaders, IACC membership is your pathway to success.
Ready to invest in your venue’s future? Learn more about what it takes to become a certified venue, joining the this elite group of venues.
