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It's that time of year again when invitations for industry golf tournaments start to flood the inbox. Whether you're an avid fan or just an occasional duffer, we've gathered some tips for golf organizers or players to have a great round or two.
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Make sure you have fun. There are lots of tournaments to sign up for. Most Canadian associations have an annual tournament, and if you're a planner, you'll probably be asked to play as a guest. It's a great opportunity to network, enjoy some fresh air and be exposed to a new sport that could become a lifelong hobby. |
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Fairmont Hotels & Resorts says economics and PR optics have impacted on the number of groups including golf in their programs. Steven Young, director of golf at the Banff Springs in Alberta says smaller groups are more the norm these days, rather than a full buy-out. "Sometimes, if planners are flexible on dates, we can combine two small groups in order to allow them to buy-out the entire course," says Young. Another option is for a planner to reserve a block of tee times, allowing individuals from their group to play golf as part of the leisure time in a program. |
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Observe the dress code of the course you're playing on. This is not the time for short shorts or tank tops. Invitations to tournaments usually refer to the dress code that's applicable. If you have doubts, a collared golf shirt and pants, mid-thigh shorts or a skort will get you onto any golf course in style. If you don't have golf shoes, a pair of sneakers will do in a pinch. After your round, most clubs have facilities to change if the function includes a banquet or dinner. |
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If golfing isn't really your game, follow the lead of more experienced golfers in your foursome if you're unsure of proper etiquette. A couple of cardinal rules though: don't talk during someone's backswing or putt, don't drive the golf cart anywhere near a green, and definitely DO NOT throw a tantrum if you miss a shot. It's always best to err on the side of good manners. |
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If it's a hot day, be sure to drink plenty of water. While it's tempting to imbibe on the course, keep a close watch on your intake and limit the alcohol. If you're golfing with possible new business contacts, do you really want to get sloppy? Save the drinks for the 19th hole. |
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If you do decide that you like golf, it never hurts to take a lesson or two. While the mechanics of a golf swing seem complicated, a golf pro can give you a couple of tips that can really improve your game. You may want to check out the Links for Women 2012 schedule. You could always take a new business associate and make a great day of it. |
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MPI World Education Congress
When: July 28 - 31, 2012
Where: St. Louis, Missouri
Why go: With its theme of "Connectivity" this annual congress from North America's largest meeting planner association provides valuable learning streams in career development, leadership initiatives and computer labs.
What's in it for you: Take a CMP Master Class, earn some CEUs, learn something new in an educational session and mingle with your peers. If you register before June 30 you'll also save some cash.
More industry events at Ignitemag.ca
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INCENTIVES + MEETINGS
Big Wins
Riding a wave of busy schedules and the promise of lots more business to come, Toronto and area meeting planners met at the Delta Hotel Toronto East to celebrate National Meetings Industry Day. Doug Bolger, founder of iL(earn)2, was recognized for his facilitating and mentorship skills with the MPI Toronto Chapter Influence Award. Bolger says "Working collaboratively with the associations, boards, planners and suppliers to innovate and invigorate – designing events of the future – that's what this industry and this award represent. I'm proud and honoured to accept it."
Barbara Anderson, CFO for Pan Am Toronto 2015, advised planners interested in tendering for event opportunities to check out the Pan Am website to register their companies and scan the new business opportunities connected with the Games. Natalie Lau, vice president of operations and productions, TIFF, promises that the upcoming James Bond exhibit, Fifty Years of Bond Style, is going to be a blockbuster for the city.
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CORPORATE TRAVEL MANAGEMENT
Shout Out
The Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) is actively seeking proposals for the Educational Sessions for the seventh annual conference. Use your words to develop a session on the conference theme "Away with Words." The association has a list of topics that are available on the ACTE website, or you can submit a new topic of discussion by choosing the wildcard option. The site gives you some handy tips on developing an education session, and also highlights some benefits of presenting to the corporate audience. You'll have to submit your proposal by May 16th, so if you're interested you should get started! |
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CORPORATE GIFTS + REWARDS
Brand Canada
Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) CEO Michele McKenzie, featured on an Education Week webcast by SITE Canada says Brand Canada is facing increasingly tough competition for incentive and leisure travel dollars. While most of our tourism market comes from the U.S., Germany, the U.K and France, our emerging markets are coming from China, India and Brazil. Canada's share of the international incentive market is about $7 million, and the CTC is focusing international media messaging around the authentic experiences and the personal interaction with Canadians that our country delivers. McKenzie reminded the national webcast audience that it isn't always necessary to go international to deliver fantastic programs. She referred to the Signature Experiences Collection on the CTC website that showcase extraordinary homegrown incentives to inspire and motivate.
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| Share your event news, case studies or story ideas with us here at ignitemag.ca. |
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Smooth Operator
The Fairmont Royal York needs a strong communicator to act as a service ambassador and liaison between meeting planners and various hotel departments, as a conference concierge. You'll ensure that meeting operations are smooth and seamless, and maintain a constant presence with the client to respond quickly and efficiently to any requests. Check out further details here. |
By the Numbers
The Certified General Accountant's Association of Alberta needs a manager of events to plan, implement and promote all of their events and manage sponsorship sales. If you've got at least three years of event management experience and can handle a fast-paced environment with demanding deadlines, apply before May 11 here. |
Team Player
Wynford is looking to fill two program coordinator positions, reporting to the director, conference management services. You need to have at least one year of related industry experience in supporting or leading the planning and execution of meeting and incentive travel programs. Click on the Wynford website to find a complete details and how to apply. |
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