Current Results:

At what time of day do you prefer to attend industry events?

• Late afternoon--between 5 and 5 p.m.
• My preference would be mid-day. I''m an out of towner and it''s easier to just drive up in the morning. Early mornings are tough as I have to incur an overnight stay to attend.
• Afternoon. 
• At the end of the day.
• Morning or early afternoon.

Past Results:

What is your greatest professional challenge?

• Balancing! Daily demands against future forecasting; managing minutia with the big picture; executives' expectations and staff needs.
• My greatest professional challenge is overcoming the generational differences in both the way business is conducted and the attitude towards it.

As the 'one not yet set in my ways' I seem to be the one that is 'forced' to deal with the lack of technology skills, productivity and time management held by our upper management and carry the administrative workload of many as a result of these inabilities.

In a position of Business Development my goal is sales focused yet due to my skill set I get bogged down with the administrative duties of the team and not able to focus on my job therefore suffering in personal growth, financial compensation and team contribution.

How is the current economic situation affecting the way you plan your meetings?

• For CVBs, as local economies tighten and cities/counties see budgets impacted, we should prepare to be called upon when support lines tighten. Moreover, hotel/business district income streams may tighten as hotel revenues may flatten or slip. We could be asked to "do more with less" again.

What are your best 'Road Warrior' travel tips?

• As a female traveler I always carry a black pashmina with me. It serves as a pillow on the flight, a blanket (in flight or at the terminal gate) or even a wrap if you are cold. It comes everywhere with me while I travel the world.
• Carry noise cancelling ear phones! Never leave home without these, they are brilliant to block out external noise, other travellers and you can enjoy your own music while you travel.
• Carry eye drops. Regardless of your flight time or delays you will arrive at your destination with sparkling eyes and ready for any client meeting or program.
• Own duplicates. Invest in a full set of toiletries, make up, first aid kit and other regularly used items for your so your bag is always pre-packed and you are ready for any client event or program. Just add your clothes and off you go!

What do you forsee as your biggest challenge in 2009?

Negotiating better deals: 5%
Building attendance: 21%
Budget pressures and rising costs: 59%
Improving attendees experiences: 5%
Securing sponsorships: 10%