Rod Rydell
Association of Medical Directors of Information Systems/KRI
Irvine, Calif.
rodrydell@keeneresearch.com
Types of meetings and events: Healthcare
Average number of attendees: 180
How did you get started in the meetings and events industry, and how did your experience lead to your current position?
I began in the meetings industry 20 years ago, planning healthcare meetings, symposiums, conferences, golf events, and golf clinics.
What skills do you think are essential for planning successful meetings and events?
Creativity, problem-solving, communication, understanding, and the ability to work with others are important to successful meetings and events.
What is your philosophy or approach to challenges and unexpected issues?
My philosophy regarding challenges or unexpected issues is to solve them quickly and professionally while keeping a smile. Challenges happen all the time and are always expected with meetings and events.
How do you keep up with industry trends, changes, and cutting-edge developments?
I read current magazine articles and attend seminars and workshops to keep up to date.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Every day is different, and every meeting and event is different. Meeting and event planning is constantly changing, which keeps the job exciting every day.
How would you describe your most significant professional success?
I cannot pinpoint one big success. Each event, when completed, is a success not only for me but also for everyone involved.
Please share an anecdote about how you handled a meeting or event that did not go as planned.
On the last day of a medical meeting, the power went out exactly at 9:00 a.m., as we were about to start a presentation. We had no lights, no projector, and no audiovisual equipment of any kind. We quickly opened the doors and curtains to allow natural light in. We still had access to the Internet, however, so one of the attendees suggested we break into small groups in the breakout rooms and make the presentation over Microsoft Teams using our laptops. Everything went well, and everyone was very understanding.
What is the best professional advice you ever received?
Talk less, listen more.
What advice would you offer others in the industry?
You will be successful if you are a good communicator and get along with others. Always listen to other ideas and suggestions and, most importantly, be a good problem-solver.
