Seeing Ourselves through Our Competitors’ Eyes

The Fort Lauderdale Convention Center recently welcomed VenueConnect, the annual conference of the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM), one of the largest venue industry gatherings in the U.S. Approximately 1,600 venue management professionals and exhibitors arrived in Fort Lauderdale from as far away as Asia, Australia, Europe and Canada. For four days, participants exchanged knowledge on the latest innovations and products tailored to large venues such as arenas, performing arts centers and convention centers.

Sometimes you can’t be sure that you’re seeing yourself clearly until you see yourself through the eyes of others. It’s interesting to take note of the top three qualities that impressed our peers the most.

• First, the proximity advantages we hold over similar destinations made many of our competitors envious. In particular, they cited our five-minute drive from Greater Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport as an advantage that few other venues can match. They also were impressed by our nearness to a major cruise port and the great mix of both major and more moderate hotel properties nearby. It’s hard to trump a great location.

• Next, when our industry friends had the opportunity to explore our location, they marveled at our Intracoastal Waterway, the network of canals and unique Water Taxi system. It’s a distinctive attraction compared to urban locations and the numerous suburban golf course properties vying for convention business.

• Perhaps most important of all were the many comments on our facility's terrific service, cleanliness and new eco-friendly feel. Our guests were surprised to hear that our venue is going to celebrate its 21st birthday. We look great for our age, thanks to the power of teamwork among our Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Convention Center and SMG teams, which often is not the norm in our industry.

VenueConnect was a real image builder for our destination in the eyes of our competitors and helps us focus on what matters most to our guests. Many thanks to all who helped make the event a success!

This article was previously published at the www.ftlauderdalecc.com blog.