Shortly after my company managed a major fundraising event, I watched the movie "Green Zone" with Matt Damon. The movie depicts the search for weapons of mass destruction (WMD) in Iraq. In one particular scene, Damon is directing his troop into a building where they suspect WMDs. After watching this scene unfold, it occurred to me that this situation was not unlike the task of managing a major event… aside from the possibility of death, of course.

When Damon and his troop arrive on the scene, the site is not secure. Civilians are where they shouldn’t be, gunfire is rampant, it is complete chaos. This is partly due to the fact that the military is short-staffed and spread all over a country in complete disorder, with not enough military to provide order prior to their arrival. They assess the situation and determine how to maneuver around the chaos. They enter the building. With an imperfect start to the mission, I watched as Matt Damon adjusts his perspective, assesses the configuration of the building and prepares for all possible scenarios. They consider enemy fire from outside and from within, not knowing what they will find around each corner, and unsure of what the final outcome of the mission will be.

It is obvious that they are all well rehearsed and prepared with contingency plans as they move through the building like a well-choreographed dance team. They utilize both verbal and non-verbal signs to shift and adjust their approach within seconds as they execute their strategy and encounter the unexpected. When they get to the point of interest, there is nothing. No WMDs. Deep sighs are exhaled as their rapid heartbeats slow and their postures relax. They are aware this mission has come to an end. They have avoided potential danger this time, but know more missions are still to come and they’ll have to do it all over again.

I’ll spare you the full list of literal correlations. For those of you who have managed or experienced events, you’ll understand entirely the parallels just described. And for this reason, you’ll understand how imperative it is to have a strategy that is well thought out, along with a well-rehearsed team that is ready for anything at your next event.

So the next time you have an event and you are preparing to “enter the building,” make sure you secure your helmet and ready your weapon. Or at least call in someone else in who can do it for you!

Kelly Carper

Ever wish for a new boss? Because yours is obviously a fool and if he/she would just listen to you, they would never have done it THAT WAY.

Ever wish for a new car? Because yours is outdated and your best friend just bought a new “Beamer” that has all the bells and whistles.

Ever wish to own your own business? Because you know you can do things much better than everyone else.

Instead of wishing for something else, why not do whatever it takes to make your current circumstance better. Offer to support your boss, since their success could also contribute to your success. Wash your car or take it in for a tune-up. Why not provide feedback to a business that you feel isn’t offering good service, so that they can improve and offer you better service in the future.

Also consider a different perspective. Consider that you can learn something from your boss. Ask them what their strategy was in doing things the way they did and the answer might be more rational than you think. Your friend with the new BMW now has $700 a month payments, while your car may be paid off. Someone who owns their own business may be dealing with a client who is not paying their bills, while you’re depositing your paycheck.

Quite frankly, it’s all about attitude and attitude can be changed incredibly easy. No one owes you anything. Look at both sides of your wish and be careful what you wish for….you might just get it, and then who will you have to blame?

Stacey Heater Divine