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106 . www.conference-news.co.uk . February 2012 BREAKOUTI'm not interested in reward schemes and trinketsDoes anybody have any good tips to leave a lasting impression with venue fi nders/agents? Either content or gifts incentivesLuke Galliana, Sales Manager at Ocean Media GroupMy top priority from venues is speed of response and effi ciency. If you can deliver one point of contact and details of your rates and package within 3-4hrs of enquiry then I'll be interested. Incentive points schemes with a range of gifts are a good idea, however they have to work well. We've placed bookings with hotel groups that offer such schemes but it has then been a nightmare getting the points credited. As far as meeting gifts are concerned, I would avoid USBs and oyster card holders and stick to something edible. As the events world has a high demographic of females, items like branded nail fi les and lip glosses are becoming increasing popular.Nadia Brown, Director of Accomplished EventsShowcasing interesting ways to experience your venue is a good starting point. I once experienced an engaging ghost walk with a well segmented group of people, not just a random bunch on people on a tedious Fam trip. The venue knew something about my detail preferences and showed me some nearby empty warehouses on offer should I wish to stage one of my 'corporate kidnap' events. That level of understanding makes a difference. I'm not interested in reward schemes and trinkets.Alan Baker, Director of Creative Rule BreakingThis is a tricky one, but I think the industry is becoming more professional and agents just want to hear the key benefi ts to why they should place a client at a venue or hotel. A lasting impression will ultimately be realised if your promises are delivered.Adam Faries, Conference Sales Manager at Royal Garden HotelI think Nadia is right with her comment about response times (right). Make life as easy as possible for people and they will naturally move in that direction. This has shown to work in opposites where venues and chains have made the process long and hard work. I would also agree that something edible is the best way to go, and forget all this rubbish about 'healthy eating' and stick to things such as mini-cupcakes and sweets.James Caldwell, Owner of Innov8 Conference ServicesYour questions answered