It is often stated that small companies have the advantage of being more nimble and able to respond quicker to industry trends. Size can work for you and against you in business. In planning off-site meetings, smaller companies may feel it’s challenging or even impossible to get the sort of VIP treatment that larger groups with more significant budgets command.
Not so, says Stacey Purcell, assistant director of sales at Caesars Means Business, the meetings and events arm of Caesars Entertainment. Purcell, who heads up the company’s small meetings sales team, says small and medium groups are a critical target for Caesars’ nine Las Vegas properties, as well as resorts around the country. The company separates small groups into two subcategories: 10 to 30 rooms and 31 to 200 rooms.
“We really value this business. It’s our bread and butter, and it often leads to bigger programs as well,” Purcell says.
Las Vegas resorts don’t like empty beds. Smaller groups that can fill in holes and be flexible with their dates can actually negotiate from a position of strength, Purcell says. “It’s a win-win.” Caesars will book small groups up to a full year in advance.
Size isn’t all that matters
Small groups often include big names in terms of decision-making power, Purcell points out. “We have booked meetings for major corporate players that have their 10 most important board members come in. They may be making decisions about a big program and need to refresh themselves about Las Vegas facilities. It’s deceiving because, while it may only be 10 rooms, it’s the most important decisions-makers for IBM, Little Caesars Pizza or other major companies.”
Purcell says her team is well-equipped to help small groups navigate the booking process. Often, it’s an administrative assistant and not an experienced meeting planner who handles the matter. “We answer a lot of questions and we also ask a lot of questions so we can understand what their needs are and guide them to the right property.”
Caesars Entertainment offers intimate dining and meeting options for small groups.
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