Eventology: The power of yes

There is tremendous power in a “yes” mentality, for both professional and personal growth. If we are able to recognize the possibilities in a situation we might have otherwise overlooked, it has the potential to benefit our business in many ways. Some say that saying yes to opportunities is risky, but what if saying no is riskier? Many successful businesses and professionals said yes to a customer, an unconventional idea or a new experience…and that resulted in positive change and exciting new opportunities. 

Saying yes to customers
The customer is always right – right? This has been a hot topic in every industry for ages. Saying yes to a customer does not mean that you are saying yes to losing money. It also does not mean that you are saying yes to doing something that puts your staff in an unsafe situation or bends your company policy, rules or regulations. An instant conversation dead end is “no.” When you say yes, you are leaning into the partnership and it shows that you are open to working with the other party and paying attention to their requests which, in turn, creates loyal customers. The higher the customer satisfaction, the more likely they are to offer return business and recommend your services to others. 

Saying yes to employees
The first thing that typically comes to mind when talking about appreciating your employees are pizza days, raises and swag. While those things matter, they are usually not the highest valued items to an employee. It is no news that work-life balance is now one of the most important aspects of someone’s job, and being able to spend time with loved ones outside of work, which you would normally be spending commuting, is incredibly valuable. Saying yes to an employee’s mental health and suggestions they have that will help them feel more valuable will pay itself back in efficiency, loyalty, culture, morale and the drive to thrive at their job. 

Saying yes to sponsorship
You may be thinking, ”Why would I offer sponsorship and how will that make me money?” Being a sponsor for an event does not always make sense and some clients will not offer the return that makes sense for your business. If you have the opportunity to be involved from the beginning there might be an opportunity to be transparent with the client and tell them what you value most in return. Many events offer logo placement at the bottom of their e-blasts or on a secret hidden sponsor page on their website (that no one usually willingly navigates to). You will want to be open to the customer and tell them what they need to provide in order for you to receive a return on your sponsorship investment. Things like having the opportunity to take over their social media page for a day, e-blast their clients or have them personally introduce you to stakeholders, venues or caterers who they work with are things that can directly and positively benefit your business and offer a great chance of building relationships with new customers. 

Saying yes to uncomfortable opportunities
Opportunities that rise up may be out of your comfort zone but can offer growth personally and professionally. These opportunities in our industry could be in the form of a speaking engagement, panel participation, moderating industry panels and more. Being part of an event in this capacity allows you to share your insights and knowledge with likeminded industry professionals, positioning you as the expert in your industry that you are. It also offers the opportunity to expand your personal and professional network which, in the end, will grow your business. If you have the courage to put yourself out there and build your personal credibility you will foster lasting relationships. 

 Michelle Nicol is an award-winning account manager and festival specialist with Higgins Event Rentals in Toronto.