MPI Toronto Virtual Just Networking, May 2020

At a time when every association is trying to add value for their members by providing virtual forums, MPI is a great time investment. MPI Toronto Chapter hosted two Virtual Just Networking (VJN) in May, May 7 and 21. MPI Toronto Chapter hosted two Virtual Just Networking (VJN) in May, May 7 and 21.  

At the start of the meeting, the full group gathered together for a quick introduction. Then participants were moved into virtual breakout rooms with topics chosen by individuals. 

Three topics were discussed on May 7th event:

• Personal Environment (Staying healthy & fit, Keeping the kids occupied, New hobbies, Funny Stories, etc…)
• Current Business (How to sell in today’s environment, Force Majeure, Keeping virtual events fun, etc…)
• The Future of Events (When will we return, what will venues be doing differently, what else will change, etc…)

After 40 minutes, the entire group got back together to share some of their interesting findings. Here are some highlights:

2020 will mostly be a year of virtual events, with some hybrid opportunities. As a planner, it is important to foster our relationships with suppliers and partners to have a mutual understanding. Contract clauses and liability issues will continue to pop up. Virtual events are evolving, they become more interactive to capture audience attention, not just focusing on the content. Venues are preparing for virtual site inspections to showcase their space, however, we all agreed site inspections will never go away as we all want the human contact.

At the end of the meeting, a lucky winner, Arianna McLaughlin walked away with ‘A dinner for two and treats’ courtesy of Lindsay Murray from Peller Estates Winery, Trius Winery, Wayne Gretzky Estates and 30 Bench.

Four topics were discussed on May 21st event:

• Personal Environment
• Venues (What will change, when do we expect to open, how are we handling new bookings)
• Sustainability (What can small businesses do to survive, what else can we do, survival tips)
• The Future of Events 

Here are some highlights:

During this lockdown period, some people use the time to do self-reflection, learn another language or skills. Suggestions on how hotels can use suites for conference speakers to broadcast messages into another physical location; delegates could use guest rooms as their day offices, choose which part of the conference they would attend in person; pick up meals-to-go and have them in their own rooms; stagger contact-less tradeshow and limit the number of attendees in the space at once. Remember to stay connected with clients/suppliers to build relationships.

At the end of the meeting, Andrew Dorcas won a 5-nights all-inclusive stay for two at a Club Med Resorts in Mexico, Dominican Republic or Florida, courtesy of Maria Chung from Meetings & Events by Club Med.

Also, for a limited time, MPI is offering sponsorship opportunities at half the price for VJN. Only one sponsor per session. For more details, please contact MPI office at office@mpitoronto.org.

The practical information shared and the deep bonds between members make MPI Toronto’s Virtual Networking events a date not to be missed. Hope to see you at the next VJN.