10 ways to get more out of your next M&I Forum
Whether you’re a seasoned M&I veteran or a Forum newbie, you can still learn a trick or two from our organisers.
That’s why we’ve put together this handy blog on how to really optimise your Forum experience and walk away with more business partners than ever before. Try these tips at your next M&I Forum and see the difference they can make…
1. Prepare your presentation in advance
Typically, each 1-2-1 meeting at our Forums lasts 15 minutes. Save precious minutes by having your presentation and questions ready to go in advance. Not got everything you wanted out of your meeting? Why not approach your prospective business partner over Forum drinks or dinner and continue the conversation!
2. Arrive in plenty of time
If you’re organising your own travel, make sure you leave plenty of time for arriving at your accommodation to relax and recharge before the first networking evening. Opening nights are not only a fun start to the Forum, they’re also the perfect time to break the ice with your fellow attendees and begin forming lasting business relationships.
3. Food for thought
At M&I, we’re always busy planning delicious lunches and vibrant dinners for our attendees. We meticulously plan each meal down to the very last detail, so whether you’re experiencing fine dining at a top restaurant or enjoying a unique culinary experience in a world-class location, our meals are not to be missed. Aside from delectable food and plenty of drinks, the lunches and dinners we arrange also make fantastic networking opportunities. It’s the perfect way to continue the conversation from a promising 1-2-1 meeting (or set you up for the next day’s meetings).
4. Get to know your surroundings
Some of our Forums are held in large hotels and resorts, which can potentially feel a bit overwhelming on arrival. Of course, we’ll always provide attendees with maps and tips on moving about where possible, but nothing compares to doing your own research. Before you arrive, check out the hotel website to get an idea of what to expect from your accommodation – it will save you precious time and energy at the event.
5. Do you know the meeting points?
Whilst you’re researching the accommodation, go ahead and look for any regular meeting points, which will be communicated to you prior to the Forum. Locating each meeting point ahead of time will ensure you never miss an activity or transfer!
6. Book your activities early
From full-throttle off-road experiences in the Nevada desert to relaxing catamaran trips around the stunning Mediterranean coastline (and everything in between), our activities are always an unforgettable way to experience what our host destination has to offer the MICE industry. Each Forum activity has a limited number of spaces, so book your chosen excursion as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
7. Don’t be shy – meet the team!
Every Forum will have dedicated M&I staff on hand to support you from start to finish, and we love meeting our attendees! Learn the who’s who of your event, so you’ll know who to approach with any questions and queries (or if you just fancy a chat).
8. Host a workshop (suppliers only)
Did you know that many of our Forums offer suppliers the opportunity to host a workshop? In your own dedicated presentation space, you’ll present to multiple buyers simultaneously, highlighting your services outside of the 1-2-1 meetings format. Speak to a member of our team to find out more about hosting a workshop.
9. Make the most of breakfast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and not just for its nutritional benefits. At M&I Forums, breakfast is a fantastic time to catch up with your new business partners and friends and get prepared for the day ahead with a full stomach and plenty of confidence.
10. Download our event app
From travel information and meeting times, to activity booking and reminders, our event app will be your personal event guide. Don’t forget to download the latest version and stay up to date with important Forum info.
