Tip 54: Mistakes Associations Make

Note: Most associations run very professional exhibitions, but a few make fundamental mistakes that result in a less successful event for everyone. Some examples:

• Allowing the Chairman's spouse to decide where to locate the annual convention. "I've always wanted to visit East Oshkosh."
  
• Restricting the attendance promotion only to members, even if the exhibit would be of interest to non members.
  
• Not allowing any deviation from the mandatory $500 registration fee, even for those only going to the exhibit (see previous item).
  
• Scheduling exhibit hours for 8-10 a.m. Sunday so the exhibition does not interfere with more important association events. "We will not allow our convention to be commercialized."

In a future Update, we will catalog mistakes made by the independent (for-profit side). If you would like to contribute your ideas, e-mail to mhough@ntplx.net.