2 August 2006

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:
Tracy N. Schorle
Manager, Media & Communications
+1.312.673.5921
tracy_schorle@site-intl.org

SITE Announces Critically-Acclaimed Author as
Keynote Speaker at International Conference

CHICAGO – The Society of Incentive and Travel Executives (SITE) recently announced that it secured Shaun Smith, a critically-acclaimed author, as the keynote speaker for the SITE International Conference 2006, which will be 30 November – 3 December in Barcelona, Spain.

Smith has been a key catalyst during the last 10 years in expanding management focus from the tactical issues of customer services to the much wider and strategic issue of customer experience. See, Feel, Think, Do, his newest book, describes a simple, yet powerful, technique that lies behind some of the best inventions and most innovative service ideas in business today. His presentation “See, Feel, Think, Do – the power of instinct in business” is based on his book and will help incentive and travel executives use the power of instinct to develop new opportunities and avoid downturns. Conference attendees will also learn how to use instinct to turn poor customer experiences into new business innovations, why most research actually distances us from customers and why being a successful brand leader has more to do with EQ than IQ.

In addition to his recent book, Smith has been featured numerous times on the "Ask the Expert" program on CNBC. He is the co-author of two other critically-acclaimed business books. His first book, Uncommon Practice, researched and written in partnership with Interbrand, examines companies that create exceptional customer experiences. His second book, Managing the Customer Experience, reveals how leaders can build this kind of competitive advantage for their own organizations. Smith was also a contributing author to "The Economist’s" Brands and Branding.

Smith’s books and presentations directly reflect his international experience and success. He held positions throughout Europe, Asia Pacific and the United States. He worked with senior executive teams on key issues such as brand strategy and implementation, leadership, customer experience and organizational alignment.

Smith’s presentation clearly demonstrates the SITE International Conference 2006 theme – “Awaken Your Senses.” Attendees will benefit from breakthrough, educational sessions and ideal networking opportunities. For the first time in SITE history, the conference will follow EIBTM. Travel once to do business on the tradeshow floor at EIBTM and then participate in the cutting-edge programming at the SITE conference.

About SITE
Founded in 1973, SITE is the only international, not-for-profit, professional association devoted to the pursuit of excellence in incentives, a multi-billion dollar global industry. It provides educational seminars and information services to those who design, develop, promote, sell, administer, and operate motivational programs as an incentive to increase productivity in business. Currently, it has nearly 2,000 members in 87 countries, with 33 local and regional chapters.

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