The gatekeeper. Yes, the mis-perceived dreaded gatekeeper (i.e. the executive assistant). Not like the receptionist at the front desk of a luxury hotel, waiting to check you in and cater to your every need. No, the wall between you and an executive with whom you'd like to do business. Yet, it just doesn't have to be that way. It is simply another myth that can be dispelled with real-life situations, resulting in a higher conversion of cold approaches to warm approaches. In this article I've listed five methods that, if appropriately utilized, should increase the likelihood that you will successfully engage the executive gatekeeper in a mutually positive and productive dialogue. READ MORE

How important is it for convention services managers (CSMs) at hotels, convention centers and convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs) to work together? According to Devon Sloan, CMP, Director of Events at the Hilton Tucson El Conquistador, a united, consistent approach is paramount to anevent's success. ""There really must be a united front as none of us can succeed without the cooperation of the other," she said. All meeting professionals must keep consistent communication to ensure their clients feel all are united and collectively have their best interests in mind. READ MORE

Over the last few years we have seen a significant increase in awareness and concern regarding the environmental impact of business. It is impossible to pick up a newspaper or magazine, or watch television, without being reminded of global warming and climate change. We must all recognize that protecting our environment for future generations is our responsibility, and every business has a social responsibility to consider its environmental impact, and take reasonable steps to mitigate it. In this article I have therefore highlighted a number of simple steps we can all take to reduce our carbon footprint, providing tangible environmental benefits without the need for costly developments or radical changes in how we run our businesses. READ MORE

Diversity is no longer a lofty idea for the future and wishful thinking. Nor is it something regional affecting select sections of the country. From vendors to guests, staff to neighbors, diversity is here, it is now, it is universal. Revisiting existing strategies and tactics and implementing new ones to accommodate true diversity and inclusion in your hotel is not only socially responsible, it is just good business. READ MORE

Engineers are the "fix it" squads who make things tick, click and stick to ensure that a property operates smoothly and without inconvenience to the guest. In fact, engineers don't just do their jobs: they provide some of the most intimate moments with guests - fixing things in their rooms and around the property usually surrounded by guests. What service skills could and should they have in addition to fixing things? READ MORE