5 Ways to Help Your International Attendees

May 13, 2013

International attendees often have a unique set of requirements as well as expectations from your event. Here are some tips to facilitate successful participation from your global audience:

  1. Multi-lingual Web site

If a significant volume of web traffic is expected to come from non-English speaking countries, consider building dedicated web pages with key information in the language or languages popular with this audience. Another option could be to plug in a tool like Google Translate to automatically detect the default language for a user's operating system and translate the content accordingly. For example, the Atlanta Visitor’s Bureau does a good job of offering a multi-lingual site.

  1. Detailed Instructions

Your event may have specific rules and terms for attendees coming from a different country. Make it easy for them to access such information by providing it on your website and in their printed registration package. An International Visitors tab in the main navigation can offer an easy to locate resource for your attendees to follow these specific guidelines, directions and helpful information. An international visitor FAQ is also an excellent place to compile the information that is most often of concern.

  1. Visa Invitation Letter

Provide an option to request and download a customized Visa Invitation Letter online to help speed up the visa application process.

  1. Package Deals

Sweeten the deal for global travelers by bundling housing and entertainment options with their event registration. If the visitors don't have to worry about local arrangements, they will be able to focus on business at the event and be willing to return to it year after year. The less stressful you can make the experience, the more positive their impression will be of your event.

  1. Focused Customer Service

A concerted effort to provide specialized services to an international audience is sure to be appreciated. Features such a separate lounge area, on-site interpreters or customized conference content can provide long lasting value to your international attendees. In addition, an international reception can help to facilitate networking and boost the business connections your visitors make.

 

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Overview: The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality. In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way. “We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.” Amenities: The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.  The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need. Gold Key Members The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events. OCCC Events: This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.  The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:  AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023 200,000 Attendees $257 Million in Economic Impact MEGACON 2023 160,000 Attendees $205 Million in Economic Impact Open Championship Series 2023 69,500 Attendees $89 Million in Economic Impact Sunshine Classic 2023 42,000 Attendees $54 Million in Economic Impact Premiere Orlando 2023 42,000 Attendees $108 Million in Economic Impact