SPARK is a year-round program for young professionals in the promotional products industry. Attendees have typically been between the ages of 19-36 years old with industry experience ranging from 1 week to 6+ years. Conversations take place throughout the year through educational sessions and networking events. SPARK combines actionable takeaways and professional development opportunities to help further careers while engaging industry peers.
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Thursday, May 20, 2021
Welcome To SPARK Direct-2-You
Panel Discussion
Lead by the SPARK workgroup
Topic: How to balance a hybrid world with virtual and in-person events
Break
Breakout Sessions (Select 3 To Attend)
Creative Problem Solving through Ongoing Inventory Shortages (Maddie)
Through mask, hand sanitizer, and now clothing shortages, distributors and suppliers alike have found themselves struggling to handle clients’ needs through stock issues. Join us in this breakout session to share how you’ve been keeping up on inventory shortages across the industry and
Getting the Most Out of a Virtual Trade Show (Ellen and Kacie)
were able to handle delivering the products that everyone seems to want at the same time.
Join Kacie Brinner, SAGE Information Services Project Supervisor, and Ellen Tucker, PPAI Director of Business Development & Expositions, as they provide tips and tricks to get the most out of a virtual trade show. Virtual shows are here to stay – they offer so much more flexibility, without the travel costs! Make sure you’re getting a good bang for your buck while you’re scrolling through the show floor.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Why It’s Important and How It Impacts You (David and Ed)
This session will explore the importance of a supplier diversity program and how companies play an essential role in addressing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion through programs that promote an inclusive approach to procurement.
The Importance of Social Responsibility in Personal and Business Relations (Charity and Kylee)
This session will discuss the importance of Social Responsibility, both personally and in business.
How To Overcome Imposter Syndrome (Anthony)
Whether you had it, currently have it, or are in denial about having it, we are going to discuss imposter syndrome. What is it? How do you overcome it? And, how do you use it to your advantage? This session will go into a deeper discussion on how you can get to the next level in your career.
How to Maximize Conversations Between Suppliers and Distributors (Noelle)
In this session, we will discuss proven communications strategies used to ensure a positive working relationship between suppliers and distributors. We will explore and how to successfully achieve a common business goal.
Prospecting Then vs Now: Using Old School Methods with a New Twist! (Javier and Brandon)
In today's crazy world, prospecting for new business is a battle as you combat digital offices, buyers on guard from sales messages, and more. But like the resurgence of the fanny pack and high-waisted jeans, we are seeing a rise in old-school prospecting techniques working these days to get the conversations going. In the session, Brandon and Javier will discuss a few of the old school tactics that are working today, as well as new cutting edge prospecting tips, and have an open Q&A discussion on prospecting where you can ask questions & share your experiences with like-minded folk.
Wrapup
Social Hour
SPARK Direct-2-You Conclusion
Product Donor