Member Spotlight: Betsy Earle
AMA Tampa Bay’s Member Spotlight:
Betsy Earle, Managing Director and Founder of Event Driven Solutions
A monthly feature for our members to learn from the insight and experiences of other members
Betsy, what is your professional background and current position?
BE: I am the Managing Director of Event Driven Solutions, a company that was founded in 2010. We handle trade show and corporate event logistics and specialize in working with clients on everything from their exhibit or event design, right down to the set-up and dismantle. I am a CTSM (Certified Trade Show Marketer), which is a unique certification in trade show and event marketing that emphasizes ROI and ROI for the exhibitor. I have been working in corporate events and trade shows for twelve years, since graduate school. I completed my Master’s in Business Administration at the University of Miami with a concentration in marketing and statistics.
What has been your most memorable career moment?
BE: My most memorable career moment was when the show floor opened to attendees during “The NAFEM (North American Foodservice and Equipment Manufacturer’s) Show”, when I stepped back and realized that I had successfully managed my first client’s trade show exhibit program as a business owner, and that they were happy. It was a 50’x70’ booth with a raised floor, running water and tons of electricity. I was so proud that I had officially gotten Event Driven Solutions up and running.
What do you think has been the most innovative change in the marketing world over the last 5 years?
BE: From the world of event marketing, the innovative change has been a shift from people attending trade shows and conferences to people expecting an “interactive experience” when they attend a trade show or conference. Attendees aren’t just looking to show up and see products or watch a PowerPoint. Instead, they want aforementioned event or trade show to be integrated with social media – Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, etc. The whole dynamic has shifted, and exhibitors and event managers are being challenged to think out of the box.
How long have you been an AMA Tampa Bay member? And, what do you value most about the chapter?
BE: I joined the Tampa Bay American Marketing Association in July of 2016. I moved to Tampa Bay in December of 2015, and was hoping to network with like-minded professionals. At each event I’ve attended so far, I’ve met great people and learned new information.
What resources do you use to stay current on marketing best practices? (e.g. blogs, newsletters, websites, conferences, books, podcasts, etc.)
BE: I spend a lot of time reading posts on LinkedIn, to see what others in my area are publishing about. I also try to make it out to professional networking events, including the AMA events, to hear what’s what from speakers.
What do you like best about living in Tampa Bay?
BE: I love the weather, the sunshine, and the beach. I especially love the running and biking path on the Courtney Campbell Causeway. It’s beautiful at sunrise as well as sundown, and in-between! I also like the diversity that the area has to offer – from nature to shopping to outdoor activities to nightlife. Tampa Bay is a great mix.
What has inspired you lately?
BE: I read “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz. The book has open my eyes to understanding the dynamics of people, and not taking things personally or making assumptions. It’s been a great way to look more clearly at people and why they behave the way they do, and to help understand them from their perspective instead of my own.
This monthly feature is presented by Alison Clinton.
Alison is volunteering her time with AMA Tampa Bay on the communications team as the Director of Content. She is also Director of Marketing at Bright House Networks in St. Petersburg. LinkedIn
If you would like to nominate yourself or another member for an upcoming Member Spotlight, please email [email protected].