The wonderfully diverse room
featured the likes of INSPIRE
SUMMIT veterans, first-time
visitors of South Florida, a few
Millennials and even an industry
retiree. Some professionals
hailed from across the country,
many flew in from around the
globe.
The sound of the bell would send
participants into action, scanning
the room for eye contact
and not-so-familiar faces.
However, more enthralling chats
continued for noticeably longer stretches of time.
“Matchmaking” success. As attendees prepared for
Renee-Marie Stephano’s introduction, last minute
connections were made as guests met remainin g
unknown professionals at their tables.
TUESDAY:
DAY TWO
After navigating a vendor-flanked
hallway of enticing raffles and
displays, it was apparent the second
edition would be much more
subdued.
Tuesday saw a noticeably smaller
crowd amass for the second and final
day of speed networking. Though
effervescent as ever, the smaller
group called for a more casual
arrangement - no bell or speed
required.
After a much-discussed, lively
evening of good company and strong
cocktails, it only seemed natural a
number of conference goers would
decide to sleep in just a little bit
longer. Welcome to Miami, indeed.
However, for the early risers in
attendance, the conversations were
as engaging as ever. Familiar faces
reconnected, and new acquaintances
formed by the minute. Marketing
material and samples were
shared… writers chatted with
developers, marketers consulted on
entrepreneurs’ visions- the room was
flush with activity.
SGEInternational President and
Resort Rescue Host Shane Green’s
words echoed in summit goer’s
ears from a Monday session. He
challenged the audience to do away
with business cards and connect
with their souls. Though most
networkers continued to exchange
business cards, in all fairness, they
were primarily mere supplements to
deeper connections (and certainly,
a simple way to store contact
information). However, who and
how many succeeded to connect
with their souls fairly remains up for
debate!
About the author
Chanoa Tarle is a freelance
copywriter and journalist specializing
in the industries of fashion, luxury
goods and luxury lifestyle. She has
written for companies including
Culture Home and Neiman Marcus
as well as publications such as the
in-flight magazine for Air Serbia,
ELEVATE.
Chanoa Tarle www.ChanoaTarle.com
ILHA 73