CHICAGO — There’s no shortage of industry associations for trade show and events professionals to be a part of. From global, to national to regional organizations and chapters, there are plenty of ways to benefit from association offerings.
Industry associations serving the trade show and events industry provide benefits to members including networking, advocacy, access to exclusive research and conferences.
Trade Show Executive talked with Liz Irving, President of Clarion Events North America, to find out why she finds industry associations important and impactful, how they’ve helped with her career development and her advice for young professionals looking to get more involved and engaged.
Maddy: Can you tell us about your status in industry organizations you’re involved in now, as well as any past affiliation?
Liz: I’m an active member of the SISO Board, where I chair the Marketing Special Interest Group and support the DEI Special Interest Group. I am also on the board of UFI, which is really exciting to have more of a global view and be able to support the industry there.
I also wherever possible participate in and join the Women In Exhibitions Network. I was part of the initial formation with North America and love seeing how this has grown over the years to help create a community for women in the industry to come together. I also sit on several event technology boards representing the voice of the for-profit organizer.
Maddy: What was the first group you joined as a trade show professional, and why did you dive into that specific organization first?
Liz: Early in my career I was involved with SISO as I was working at Reed Exhibitions/RX and they were a member, and I have stayed very active within this association over the last 20 years now moving into a board role. I participated in SISO because I by nature am curious and an ongoing learner, and for me, this gave me the opportunity to expand my network, to learn new ideas outside my four-walls and ultimately give me exposure to be at the table for conversations that were shaping the direction of our industry.
Maddy: How has being involved in industry associations and groups helped in your professional development?
Liz: Involvement with industry associations has provided me the holistic platform for my development by offering numerous opportunities. What stands out most to me are three areas:
One is the ability to connect with industry peers, expand my network but also collaborate with some of the best and brightest our industry has. It’s the opportunity to hear and participate in conversations about trends shaping the industry.
Two: Industry influence is exceptionally important because we are stronger than the one organization we work for when we are able to collaborate on initiatives that can influence policy change.
And three: Community and Support is incredibly important for me as we share interest, challenges and truly celebrate each other’s success too. I feel so fortunate to have not only a strong group of colleagues that I hold in high regard for their professional achievements, but many have become my closest friends that I know I can turn to without question for mentorship, guidance and support.
Maddy: What are some of the associations’ goals or missions that you feel most align with your priorities and values?
Liz: Both with UFI and SISO they focus on information exchange, and I know when I attend in person and on digital events, I will be joined with other leaders who openly share and engage in dialogue together and want to improve where we are heading as an industry.
When you are able to be exposed to diverse viewpoints and problem-solving techniques, I always feel it fosters my own innovation and thinking that I can bring back to my teams.
Maddy: What are some mentorship opportunities found through industry groups?
Liz: WEIN has been an exceptional group for me not only in North America but globally. These for me have been informal and what’s great about that is that I have more of an ability to build personal relationships that move into professional relationships for my organization.
I would also add that being on the Board of both SISO and UFI, I feel extremely privileged to sit at the table and learn from others in the room. It goes back to these groups offering collaborative learning and mutual support, and as my role has expanded, I place even more emphasis on having these mentors today.
Maddy: For the young professionals out there, who maybe aren’t really active members, what would you advise them to do if they were interested in becoming more involved?
Liz: First join one of our digital sessions, most of the time there is no cost, it’s fun and you will get a taste of what it is like to participate. As a board member, and I will speak for my colleagues too, we want to hear from you. If you have an idea or a question or you think we should have a stronger focus on something you see as an opportunity, please reach out and let’s talk.
I am incredibly impressed with the young professionals I am seeing at our association events and especially the UFI Next Generation Leadership group. Know that I want to learn from you, and you will be part of our industry story that allows us to continue to navigate and innovate around the complexities of our business world.
Maddy: What have been some of the most rewarding aspects of being involved with the organizations?
Liz: It’s the incredible sense of connection and support with like-minded professionals. By being involved, it empowers me to stay current, continuously develop my skills and leadership and contribute to industry advancement that moves us all forward.
Maddy: What is one thing every young professional should know when it comes to being more involved in their industry?
Liz: My comment for all young professionals is be curious — the more you can learn and bring to your role and your organization, the better. Our events associations in particular I find to be very welcoming and can provide great opportunities both personally and professionally. If you are unsure how to navigate, start by advocating for yourself to attend. Once you are there, we are more than happy to make sure your experience is meaningful for you.
Maddy: What is the “can’t miss” industry event to attend as a young professional, in your opinion? (Or two or three, however many you’d like to highlight)
Liz: SISO Leadership — Great for Director levels and above!
EFEC and/or The Lippman various events — a great connection between for profit and association and actionable takeaways from roundtable sessions.
UFI — regionally an exciting opportunity to get a global view with a diverse membership
Maddy: If you could share one thing with a younger version of yourself when you first joined the industry, what would it be?
Liz: It would be that recognizing that my involvement not only enhances my professional focus, but I have found it has given me a profound sense of fulfillment to know that the work I do and the connections I foster contribute to the greater good of the industry that I believe in.
