How can you establish clear expectations and goals with your conference partners?

Before shaping a conference's vision and objectives, draw inspiration from Stephen Covey's "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." Start with the end in mind, aligning the vision with clear purpose. Identify the audience with empathy, reflecting Covey's habit of seeking first to understand. Prioritize key themes, exemplifying putting first things first. Set measurable objectives proactively, in line with Covey's principle of taking initiative. Lastly, consider stakeholder benefits, embracing a win-win mindset. This approach ensures a well-defined, effective conference that aligns with enduring principles.

SMART ist das Zauberwort - die Ziele müssen Spezifisch, Messbar, Attraktiv, Realistisch und Terminiert sein. Das klingt erst mal kompliziert, ist aber gar nicht so schwer.

The success of a conference depends on the close collaboration between partners who share the same vision, well-defined responsibilities, and expectations. However, securing sponsorships can be a challenging task, and sponsors' uncertain commitment can lead to delayed payment and overspending threatening the conference's financial health, quality of invited speakers, and venue options. Additionally, obtaining CME accreditation may create unexpected delays and barriers, jeopardizing the scientific program's caliber. All these factors can cause delayed marketing and promotion, missing opportunities to reach the target audience, leading to low attendance and limited visibility that may negatively affect the reputation of future conferences.

In understanding a conference partner using Covey's Habit 6, focus on synergy. Embrace differences as opportunities for innovation, actively seek input, and engage in collaborative problem-solving. Combine unique strengths for a more impactful event. Strive for win-win outcomes, fostering a mindset of mutual benefit. Encourage teamwork, emphasizing shared goals, and celebrate achievements together. Integrating Habit 6 cultivates a conference partnership that thrives on creativity, shared success, and a collective energy, ultimately leading to a more impactful event.

Negotiating for win-win outcomes involves empathizing first, understanding the other party's needs (Habit 5). Clearly stating your goals and encouraging a shared vision is essential (Habit 2). Seek common ground by identifying shared interests for mutual benefit (Habit 6), fostering collaboration to generate innovative solutions (Habit 4). Focus on crucial needs for both parties and propose various solutions proactively (Habit 3 and Habit 1). Stay flexible by adapting to changing circumstances (Habit 7). Document agreements clearly to ensure a shared understanding of terms (Habit 2). Cultivate positive relationships by building trust for future collaboration (Habit 4). Periodically assess outcomes for continuous improvement (Habit 7).

Communication - regularly - is essential. Frequent check-ins reinforce goals, expectations and eliminates confusion or misunderstandings. Your partners/colleagues will appreciate the extra effort to stay aligned, ensuring a successful conference.