Access

Author

Alexa LeClaire

Vice President of National Accounts

Share To

Date Published

4.13.23

IMEX is one of the most anticipated and THE largest industry event of the year for the global meetings, events, and incentives industry. I look forward to it every year for a chance to connect and reconnect with clients and industry partners.

This past IMEX, just before the conclusion of the show, while sitting on the patio of the Four Seasons accompanied by a bottle of Whispering Angel, we were asked, “has it been a good show for you? Did you get a lot of leads?”

Well of course it had been a great show. We experienced VIP hosted buyer lounges with aura readings, a touchdown event at Allegiant Stadium, a guest DJ appearance from the infamous Paris Hilton, the official unveiling of the new Access branding, and sure we received some RFPs, but most importantly we had the opportunity to have shared experiences and create memories with our industry partners and colleagues.

“Most importantly we had the opportunity to have shared experiences and create memories with our industry partners and colleagues. “

‍

Alexa meeting with a client at the Access booth at IMEX

While the dollar and cents of ROI is gratifying, it is the ROR, return on relationship, that is built over time through connection, trust, loyalty and shared experiences, that makes for a successful brand. The importance of creating authentic connection through the interaction and engagement with our clients and partners alike, runs deep at Access and IMEX is one of the prime opportunities to do so.

I have clients coast to coast, and as we build a partnership, it is my goal to have more of a personal relationship with them. It is one of the most rewarding aspects of my role, which is deeper than an RFP at hand. It is when I know them so well that they become not only professional relationships but personal ones, friends. When we connect, I love to hear about their dog, Doyle, share titles of books we're reading, know what their favorite drink is, receive photos of their children, celebrate each other, and more.

As I write this article, I realize it could have simply been titled "Thank you." Thank you to my clients and partners, because at the end of the day it is my and Access’ relationships with you that mean the most.

We no longer simply rely on delivering a top-notch service, and while we are service obsessed, it is how Access builds meaningful and lasting customer relationships that truly drives our success.