Question? -- "What happens when you bring 25 experienced consultants together for a planning meeting?"    

Answer -- A palpable level of energy, and a drive to accomplish something of value. 

Several months ago, a National Board member, Jack Veale, sought to bring CMCs together for a planning meeting, and on March 30 - April 1, 25 CMCs got together help realize the vision of strengthening the CMC community. 

The day and one-half planning session, in Orlando, Florida, was facilitated by Jack and designed to provide not only information about the CMC value proposition, but also movement toward planning for a future series of CMC meetings.  

Most of the energy in the room was centered around discussions regarding the CMC value, what it means and how its brand promise can be further honed.  The participants, all CMCs, primarily focused their discussion on (a) ideas to improve and market the CMC, (b) using the CMC to get new clients and open new markets, (c) ensuring that the CMC is known as a differentiator in the marketplace.  There were breakout sessions designed to 'flesh-out' these, and other ideas.  The information developed on the CMC brand is being used by the national Marketing Committee which has the responsibility for further our brand and marketing efforts.  

Another portion of the planning meeting was designed to explore the next steps to a creating a larger (perhaps 75 - 100 participants) event in the Fall, perhaps in the Chicago area.  

A final output was spontaneously developed by the CMCs: there was genuine interest in establishing a CMC Community, using the IMC USA website capabilities to bring experienced consultants together, further strengthening their bonds and sense of connectivity.   

Thanks go to Jack Veale for kicking off this idea and starting a sustainable towards community and branding.  Thanks also go to the 25 CMCs who gave up their time away from their practices to participate in this planning effort.