Briefings: Soundoff

What are some unique ways your organization has used red-carpet or local celebrities to increase its visibility?
— FS Advisor, Feb. 20

A nightmare experience with an A-list actor still haunts me. We hired him to give the keynote at our annual meeting with thousands in attendance. He was rude, didn’t prepare and rambled so much, attendees walked out during the presentation. Always insist on seeing your headliner’s presentation materials. In our case, there was none. We were out $30,000 and felt humiliated.
— Gail Cohen, former marketing manager, Illinois Park and Recreation Association, Oakbrook Terrace, Ill.