Pulse December 2016 | Page 67

chosen by the Speaker Task Force and approved by the ISPA Board of Directors, each task force member is assigned to a speaker to serve as their coach. As a speaker coach, the task force member works with their assigned speaker to answer questions, provide guidance, and help shape the presentation to be specifically targeted at ISPA attendees.“ This could be anything, from reviewing the handouts and PowerPoint presentations to understanding the presentation schedules. The goal is to make sure the speaker is supported, comfortable and confident in
their presentation,” says Robert Vance, co-chair of the Speaker Task Force.
Scott Kilbourne of Spa Struck says he tries“ to ascertain the preparedness of the speaker to present the topic and how the information will be received by ISPA members.”
This coaching process aims not only to prepare speakers for their Professional Development Sessions at the ISPA Conference & Expo but also serves as a way to build relationships and provide speakers with a friendly face on-site. Several Speaker Task Force members often introduce speakers during their sessions at Conference.
“ Over the years, I have worked with more than a dozen speakers I was fortunate enough to see at ISPA Conference and they have all helped us tremendously to build a better culture and a better spa which, in turn, helps our clients with having the best experience possible,” says Hills.
Duncan adds that“ speakers invited to participate are not just treated like family— they become part of the fabric of ISPA.” n
“ When reading dozens of applications, the ones that stand out to me are the ones that offer real answers to real questions.”
LISA HILLS Director of Retail & Guest Relations G2O Spa and Salon Boston, Masachusetts
“[ A great ISPA speaker is someone with ] an articulate, kind, charismatic personality with in-depth knowledge in regard to the spa, hospitality and wellness industry.”
SCOTT DUNCAN President Spa Gregorie’ s Newport Beach, California
“ A great ISPA speaker will provide a unique perspective to their topic and present it with a dynamic that draws the audience in immediately.”
JENNIFER WAYLAND-SMITH
Account Management & Sales Impact Cryotherapy Atlanta, Georgia
“ We are looking for proposals with well thought-out and unique topics, action items that the audience can implement within their organization, and speakers with credible resumes.”
SCOTT KILBOURNE Spa Director / Owner Spa Struck Vail, Colorado
“ Make sure that your topic is focused, specific and developed and that you know what three to five points you want the ISPA membership to take away from the session, then challenge yourself to find a path outside the traditional to present your key points.”
THE 2017 ISPA CONFERENCE & EXPO SPEAKER APPLICATION is now open until January 13. To apply, click here.
ROBERT VANCE Managing Director Well & Being Spa at The Fairmont Princess Scottsdale, Arizona
December 2016 ■ PULSE 65