Ignite a Sp@rk of inspiration. September 18, 2013 Issue

SEPTEMBER 18, 2013
Ignite - a spark of inspiration

Tapping into brain research and emotional smarts can improve learning outcomes for attendees at a conference, and well after it ends. A successful conference helps attendees incorporate what they've learned into their actual work behaviour. Here are some tips on how to keep your group engaged and learning throughout the day.

Food is fuel:
Offer foods to energize your audience, not contribute to a state of tiredness. Andrea Sullivan, founding president of BrainStrength Systems in Pennsylvania, says you should avoid white flour and sugar that sends your blood sugar on a roller-coaster ride. Strike a balance between proteins and carbohydrates. Proteins promote clarity, alertness and motivation. Flax seed is a potent brain booster. It's a rich source of omega-3 fatty acid, which improves information processing, clarity and mood.
Tap into the collective:
Conferences can become amazing experiences for learning when organizers tap into the collective brain-power of their audience. Check out the book Seven Rules for Designing more Innovative Conferences by Ed Bernacki.
Maximize Learning:
Surrey, B.C.-based Terry Small is a master teacher and speaker on learning and the brain. Try some of these techniques to boost learning: Design conferences that have a theme or narrative to reinforce the message. Keep sessions to a 20-minute maximum to keep attention from wandering. Keep your audience engaged by having them stand: choose a partner and discuss questions before providing answers. Make sure the room is right for learning, with a temperature between 10 and 21°C with lots of natural light, if possible.
Get Emotional:
Dr. June Donaldson, a Calgary, Alta.,-based author, estimates that about 20 per cent of an audience at any given time is emotionally shut down and unable to absorb a speaker's message. Certain techniques such as improv theatre can engage participants and get people emotional and connected to the main message.

Look for conference ideas at ignitemag.ca. To share your own best practices with other readers, meet us on facebook or IgniteMeetingsConnect.

 



Engage 2013

When: October 3, Toronto. October 29, Vancouver
Where: Allstream Centre, Toronto. The Vancity Theatre, Vancouver
Why go:
Reserve your spot to see five great speakers. The annual Engage speakers' series in Toronto and Vancouver showcases five different thought leaders.
What's in it for you: Learn, connect and engage your mind with inspiring speakers, who may just be the spark to ignite your next conference or convention. Attendance is free for meeting and event planners, although National Speaker's Bureau will accept donations for their Feet First: Socks for the Needy Campaign.

More industry events at Ignitemag.ca

good to know
INCENTIVES + MEETINGS
Delta Kingston Waterfront
Now that its $10 million renovation is complete, the Delta Kingston Waterfront is the city's first 4-star hotel. The renovations included a complete transformation of 126 guest rooms and suites to the new ModeRoom prototype-all with a waterfront view. The rooms balance functionality and adaptability, with special touches such as lots of space in the bathroom, shelves and hooks in the entry way and the fully-wired, multi-purpose SmartDesk. Two board rooms are located close to the main lobby, which has been transformed to include fully connected work hubs and lounge areas for small banquets and receptions. The top floor meeting space was expanded to accommodate larger groups and features panoramic views of Lake Ontario.
CORPORATE TRAVEL MANAGEMENT
Bundled Fees in the Air
SkyMiles members have some options that may bring the costs of airline auxiliary fees back to earth. This week, Delta Air Lines debuted the new Smart Travel Pack, which bundles a suite of extra services for business or personal travel. Travellers can use the Smart Pack unlimited times until Jan. 5th, when Delta will evaluate the program. The travel pack costs $199.00 and includes: a free first checked bag; priority boarding; access to preferred seats in the bulkhead or exit rows toward the front of the plane; 20 per cent more bonus miles; and discounted economy comfort which allows passengers to upgrade to economy comfort for 50 per cent less on domestic flights and 25 per cent less on international flights.

CORPORATE GIFTS + REWARDS
Conservation Conversation
Sometimes the best reward is giving back. Four Seasons properties around the globe have partnered with wildlife conservationists to protect our four-legged friends. From sponsoring endangered sea turtles in the West Indies, to elephant rescue in Thailand, or a three-hour kayak journey through the mangrove forests in Malaysia, get up close and personal with the natural native habitat.

Planners: what are your work-related resolutions for 2014? Maybe you want to boost your social media savvy, super-size your network or land that elusive coveted client? Share your goals with Ignite magazine and we'll get expert input on how to achieve them.

Share your event news, case studies or story ideas with us here at ignitemag.ca.
Group and Event Coordinator
Use your event and conference skills as a group and events coordinator at The Resort at Cypress Hills. You'll be the link between group events and resort staff to ensure that our client's meeting or event exceeds their expectations. Previous hotel experience is preferred, and your attention to detail and advanced knowledge of Microsoft applications will come in handy. This is a full time, permanent position.
Ready to be your Own Boss?
Sensix Communications & Events is looking for a partner in Toronto with experience in the design and production of corporate meetings and events for national and international clients. This person is well-known and respected in the industry with a proven track record for exceeding client expectations. He or she is well connected to open doors with established clients, make presentations and manage relationships. Sensix is an award-winning company based in Montreal with over 30 years of success producing meetings and events across North America. Contact Michael Caplan.
The City Centre
The City of Brampton is searching for the right person to coordinate facility events in their downtown meeting spaces. Reporting to the manager, property management, you'll coordinate the promotion, scheduling and completion of events. You'll have at least three- to five-years of experience in event planning and solid customer service and people management skills.

 

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