Independent Meeting Planners

Corporations and associations have outsourced meeting-planning functions to third-party planners, who are independent contractors. While the corporations and associations remain responsible for the meetings’ content, independent planners typically handle all other details, in particular, finding venues and negotiating contracts. Most of an independent planner’s business depends on a reputation for fair dealing, referrals, and continued relationships. Thus, the best planners are careful to ensure that all parties are aware of all contract provisions, including those for commissions. Planners also ensure that the hotels treat meeting clients fairly when not all rooms in the block are picked up and it is necessary to invoke attrition clauses.