Managing VIPs By Jeff Sacks, Vice President, Midwest Region VIP… Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary gives us the following definition: "person of great influence or prestige; especially: a high official with special privileges." At your office water cooler, the conversation about your VIPs may move more towards that of CLMs—Career-Limiting Moves—that so frequently can occur by failing to properly take care of these very important individuals. In today’s meeting environment, you probably find yourself looking for ways to take care of those in your organization that have worked hard and dedicated a lot of time towards leading your group. These "VIPs" have ascended to this level and should be rewarded and recognized as such. Here’s a quick list of some basic items that will always make someone feel special: Airport Meet & Greet (with limousine or town car) Pre-Registered check-in with personal greeting upon arrival and escort to room Upgraded sleeping accommodations Upgraded amenity and/or amenity series during length of stay Complimentary beverage set-up in room (either alcoholic or non-alcoholic) VIP tickets/passes to events and/or restaurants in city where meeting is taking place Recognition among peers (either during meeting and/or throughout the year) The funny thing about trying to make a VIP feel special is that your heart may be in the right place but you can often do more damage than good. When putting together your plans for these very important people, the absolute most important thing to do is your HOMEWORK! You cannot assume you know everything about these people without doing your due diligence. After all, aren’t a couple of phone calls or e-mails to someone’s assistant worth saving the embarrassment and discomfort of sending a non-alcohol drinker a fine bottle of scotch?! One important thought that should not be left unsaid: Remember that there will always be those times when you need to try and find the appropriate way to let "down easy" those that believe they are VIPs, but truly aren’t! It is a difficult dance, but definitely one that should not be overlooked. When put into what can be a very uncomfortable position, do not hesitate to look to your supervisor(s) or boss for assistance. Often times, these individuals will have had a tight relationship with your organization’s leaders and can help diffuse the situation with great panache, all without ever hurting anyone’s delicate feelings. I wish you the best of luck in coming up with unique ways of showing your organization’s VIPs all the TLC you can!