Let's talk about the elephant in the room.
We hear it all the time.
Event managers don't say it outright.
But they fear change.
Many would advise you to "keep looking and looking…and researching before you make your business decision."
Taking this advice means 'don't do anything,' and staying with the status quo.
Sorry.
Bad idea.
It's time for change.
And what's this issue with contesting the status quo anyway?
Why does the fear of change even exist?
More importantly, how do we help event managers get over it?
We want to contribute to your revival.
Say, how about we get to the source of your resistance?
One day everything will be well, that is our hope. Everything's fine today, that is our illusion" ― Voltaire
You fear changing your operational process.
You fear choosing your first operations management software.
You fear 'changing' your current software.
You fear migration.
We fear flying monkeys.
We get it.
But why?
Let's be the 'change agents' and nip the status quo in the bud – now.
And to tell you the truth (we're honest people), there's nothing wrong with fear.
Don't let it paralyze you, though.
We wouldn't consider it effective leadership.
We're here to examine it with you.
We're in this together…all of us.
Let's solve the intricate chess game known as the status quo (and become World Champion contenders).
If you're an event manager, you're probably working long hours.
This leads to less time with family, less hair (a few of us resemble this), high blood pressure, and falling asleep at your desk.
We've said it before.
Doing this over and over, you'll get the same result.
It's time.
Contest the status quo.
Face your fear of change.
Embrace innovation and operational AWESOMENESS.
High five!
You don't have time to be a cowardly lion.
Embrace the change – don't fight it!
We'll show you how to get through it.
As an event manager, do you get chest pains when your team talks about changing 'the way things are?'
We can imagine the anxiety you experience.
Choosing your first or next operations management solution might be like deciding what to eat on Thanksgiving (we want it all).
Finding vendors, interviewing them, scheduling and previewing demonstrations of their system, and then decide.
What a darn nightmare, right?
On top of it, now implement it.
Say what? (I quit.)
The pressure is on.
Don't fret.
It's normal.
You can get past this.
We can get past it.
A cool thing about change is innovation.
You'll no longer be missing out on the benefits of enhancing your operation.
You'll get to weigh in on the flashy tech the 21st century has to offer you.
How's that for hip?
The unsettling task of changing the way you do things also comes with rewards that benefit your performance.
Whether you're purchasing your first software solution, migrating to a new one, freaking out about implementation, or you're presently a rebel, we'll get you down the yellow brick road.
Don't purse your lips.
It's time to make nifty decisions.
Move your team in the right direction.
Stop resisting change.
Face it.
Embrace it.
(Snuggle with it if you have to.)
It might be like learning to ride a bike.
So we're here to give you an extra hand.
Lift the kickstand.
Put your feet on the pedals.
Start moving forward.
Perhaps you're all about the change.
You're over the status quo.
But you need to nudge everyone else in the reputed direction.
You can do it.
Here's how we prod: these five sure-fire ways to see effective change.
In order of importance, these will help you 'get through it.' (It's not so dramatic, really.)
The road to liberation isn't an easy one, we understand.
However, it's achievable with some structure.
And as long as your purpose is clear – you're already making the change.
With purpose in mind, grab Toto and start clicking your red heels.
It's time to refute lousy advice and make positive changes.
The kind that gives your boss butterflies when they see you (platonic butterflies).
Don't know what to expect?
Don't stress it.
Here are four phases you'll go through.
This is where you'll recognize the changes you're making.
The anticipation will excite you because you've made a decision.
You know the benefits are coming.
And now you're making big plans to transform your operation.
This part is bound to happen.
When it rains, it pours.
Everything that can go wrong will.
(Murphy's Law…blah-blah-blah) Yes, everything will get worse before it gets better.
But you'll get through it.
Build a support [your vendor] system.
Put everyone on the bus and keep moving in the direction of the Wizard.
Don't get stuck here!
Don't.
Put the most challenging part behind you and your team.
Reap the benefits. (Muahahaha!)
Everything is coming together here.
You've implemented, migrated, and love the Kool-Aid.
We have ignition! Liftoff!
Close your eyes.
Now, do you see the benefits of change?
(We know you can't see anything.)
This is exciting stuff.
Rather than embracing change – you get to embrace the benefits and make them your new and improved "status quo."
Turn your benefits into business as usual…with a smile, more hair, and normal blood pressure.
Hey, you did it! You refuted and won.
Good for you. Don't stop here. Continue to face your fear of change. Manage it. Stay disciplined and embrace change.
Change the world! Or start with your operation.
Editor's note: This post was originally published in July 2014 and has been updated for comprehensiveness and freshness.