Angela Hara, CEM Senior Director, Shows, of The Vision Council
Hometown: ALEXANDRIA
University of Education: Drexel University
How long have you been an IAEE member? 2004
IAEE Chapter: DC Chapter
How did you start your career in this industry?
Like everyone else, I stumbled into it. I knew someone who consulted at an association and suggested a apply for a job as a coordinator based on my marketing background. 17 years later I’m still here.
How has IAEE shaped your career?
Through MATSO, the Krakoff Leadership Institute, chapter events, Exhibitions Day, and Expo! Expo! participation, I’ve made many friends over the years. I feel part of a community instead part of an industry.
What advice would you give to a new member?
Network! Attend the events, volunteer and speak up.
Fun fact about you – What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
My outgoing personality does NOT include approaching strangers in a random situation.
What do you like most about your chapter?
It’s big! I love how so many people in events are from the DC metro area.
What would you say is the #1 IAEE member benefit?
All of the networking opportunities….followed closely by the MemberLink. I love posting questions to the communities and crowdsourcing answers.
What do you like most about Expo! Expo!?
My husband is also in the industry and it’s the one event a year we get to sneak away from the kids (who we adore, of course) to party hop.
How do you use CEIR research, and what reports have you downloaded?
My company often uses CEIR research to benchmark against what we’re doing.
Without using a specific company name, what new technology on the market can you just not live without? Why?
Screen sharing
How do you currently use social media for your events?
We use it all. It’s part of our day to day marketing at this point. We have well over 100K followers across our different platforms.
