RAB 2009: Worth The Investment?

INNOVATIVE IDEAS ABOUND! That’s the promise of the Radio Advertising Bureau for the upcoming RAB Conference, March 16-18 in Orlando. With all of radio feeling the economic pinch, is this the right time to invest in your people and the RAB?


“NOW is the time to focus on core values.”

RAB President Jeff Haley tells the story of a radio company that was asking the same question last year. Should they be spending the money to send employees and managers to the RAB conference?

“This particular broadcaster did make the investment, and we’re glad they did. The company decided to send 44 employees to the conference. And those 44 decided to split up so they could attend every single session. Then, to help those who did not get to attend, they actually developed a blog where they could share ideas and stories.”

Those people met at the end of the day to swap information before blogging to the ‘folks back home.’ “They shared ideas. They swapped stories. Bottom line is, there were money-making ideas to put in use once they got back to their stations.”

“Any radio company can do the same; send some of your managers and salespeople. With over 45 sessions planned during the conference, there will be plenty of ideas to share...ideas that will make money.”

Haley points out, “Now more than ever it’s time to focus on the core values of what drives the business. Our sessions are very focused on those things that will make a difference to stations, like digital advancements.


One panel focuses on how agencies work, so you’ll have a better understanding of what they need, and when.” Sheila Kirby, chairperson for RAB 2009 and CEO of Morrison & Abraham says: “Education is the key to success for salespeople. And education is what we offer at this year’s conference. What categories will be most active in 2009...how do salespeople sell in a digital world? Training is tough on a local level, so one of the best ways to educate your team is to send them to the RAB conference, where they get exposure to new ideas and to the best training sessions available.”

“Succeed in a digital world.”

“If you want your sellers to be recognized as experts in the digital field, the conference is the place to make that happen because RAB is now offering the Certified Digital Marketing Consultant (CDMC) program.

This new designation for radio sellers is designed to recognize expertise in new media marketing. “Training starts on Sunday March 15th, just before the opening of the conference, so attendees won’t miss any of the important sessions.” The RAB will offer the complete CDMC course as an option for conference attendees. “CDMC is just another reason to attend this year’s conference.”

The keynote speaker for 2009 is Andy Stefanovich, the founder of Play, an innovation consultancy. Andy will share a message about innovation, fearlessness, and the power of possibility.

“Every year, RAB conference attendees generate significant ROI within days of returning to their stations because of the ideas they take back and implement immediately.” And that’s what it’s all about.

“We’ve always said that (attending the conference) should put dollars back in your pocket, and we really believe the sessions, panels and networking in Orlando will do just that.”