A recent survey conducted by Grant and Notter said that leaders who tweet and post give their organizations a competitive edge. – 84% – and that social media outlets are a good way to communicate core values – 84%. The research goes on to say that 64% of the respondents said leaders use the tools, however, only 45% said that the leadership are actually engaged or using social media or that they’re not using it enough. So it becomes a red flag when 45% express concern about the lack of involvement, especially if the majority indicate that social media use provides a competitive edge.

Traits in leadership are changing. Seems those that embrace change, transparency, diversity, and experimentation are the new breed of leaders that will move ahead.

SOURCE: Association Meetings Magazine

According to research conducted on U.S. Cultural and Heritage Travel, 78% of all U.S. leisure travelers participate in cultural heritage activities while traveling; on average 118.3 million adults each year. Cultural and heritage visitors spend, on average, $994 per trip compared to $611 for all U.S. travelers, making this visitor more desirable for any destination. Challenges within the destination are making certain that tourism does not destroy the heritage that attracts visitors in the first place; that it does not put demands on the infrastructure – roads, airport, water supplies, and public services like police and fire protection.

SOURCE: National Trust for Historic Preservation

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Almost every destination goes after some sort of sporting event. Amateur, organized… whatever fits best within the host city. When we look at connecting the dots, it’s important that the tournament organizers work closely with the CVB and local sports commission. Here’s a tip that host cities should look for from the tournament organizers

Tip#4 Promote the Host City

While CVBs and sports commisions can reach out to their own networks, even organizers should also help generate interest and attendance by promoting the host community to participants, families, and fans.

1. 1. Provide collateral material about the event and the host city when promoting the event.
2. 2. Help create organized activities for participants to enjoy during free time.
3. 3. Create an event website that includes host hotel information and promotion of local hotels, restaurants, and attractions to event attendees.

SOURCE: Sports Events Magazine