Sunshine Matters

Now in its 46th year, the annual Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism is coming up September 11-13.  In just two weeks at the Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando, attendees can count on being inspired, engaged, energized and educated by some of the tourism industry’s top thinkers – and receive business insights that lead to big ideas.  Here’s what some of this year’s speakers will be talking about:

Jonathan Tisch, Chairman of Loews Hotels
The travel industry plays a key role in driving economic growth in Florida and across the United States. There is an urgent need for the U.S. to increase its share of the global travel market, and at Governor’s Conference I will propose innovative solutions to ensure a seamless travel experience for international visitors.  For more details

Morten Hansen, Cal-Berkeley professor and best-selling author of Collaboration and Great by Choice
“Great by Choice” shares the secrets of companies that rose to greatness in environments characterized by big forces and rapid shifts that leaders could not predict or control.  With Morten’s advice, you and your company can achieve greatness.  For more details

Crystal Washington, social media marketing strategist and co-founder of Socialtunities
A mere 14 percent of consumers trust advertisements while over 90 percent trust peer recommendations.  Savvy brands recognize that the key to increased business and profits is leveraging the power of referrals.  As it happens, social media is the most effective and efficient referral engine in existence. In this program, you will uncover innovative ways to leverage the power of word of mouth via popular social networks and apps.  For more details

Brian Solis, best-selling author and principal analyst at Altimeter Group
Did you know that there is a new breed of customers out there?  They’re part of Generation C, a category of consumers who are not bound by age but instead lifestyle . . . in this case, a connected lifestyle.  I’ll share with you who they are, how they discover new opportunities and how they influence the decisions of others. Let’s go!  For more details

Paul Phipps, VISIT FLORIDA Chief Marketing Officer
Join Paul for a special workshop to address the upcoming challenge of developing Florida’s 2020 tourism plan.  Learn what tools VISIT FLORIDA will be using to help set the course for 100 million visitors and beyond.  Gain one of the first public views of what new markets are being considered for near- and long-term growth.  See what markets seem to offer less risk and higher return.  Weigh in on your destination or organization’s unique opportunities and concerns.  For more details

Don’t miss out on your chance to be in the know.  Register now at FloridaTourismConference.com.  We look forward to seeing you in Orlando!