Four Tips for Cvent Management: International DMO Edition

Whether you’re riding the high from IMEX America or gearing up for the next big trade shows like Cvent CONNECT Europe 2025 in London, connecting with the global meetings industry is key to attracting planners from around the world. Cvent is a stellar tool to do just that.

Cvent is a cloud-based solution that streamlines your event participation from beginning to end. For international DMOs, it’s not enough to simply be listed on Cvent. Instead. It’s vital to optimize your presence to compete against U.S. destinations that may already be top-of-mind for planners.

North American planners often begin their search there before engaging further, which is why embracing Cvent is non-negotiable for DMOs who want to connect with them. Adopt these four best practices to strengthen any Cvent strategy and make your international destination stand out.

1. Optimize Your Cvent Profiles for Global Planners

International destinations are competing against U.S. cities that planners on Cvent already know well. The challenge is to ensure your DMO profile and partner listings are comprehensive and visually engaging with up-to-date photos, meeting specs, travel access info, and group packages. Share all of your latest and most pertinent information to optimize your offer.

Highlight unique selling points that differentiate you from domestic competitors. Consider safety protocols, incentive travel perks, cultural value, and other themes that domestic destinations can’t provide as easily. Working with an agency like DCI who understands both North American and international markets is a strategic way to achieve this.

2. Qualify Leads Efficiently and Strategically

Remember that not all leads are equal. DMOs can use Cvent’s filters and automation to prioritize the most viable RFPs, maximizing ROI.

To do this, flag high-value segments like associations, corporate, or incentive travel and align them with your destination’s strongest assets. This ensures you’re attracting the most advantageous RFPs, and those that you can respond to most effectively. Additionally, focus on segments that historically choose international destinations, like long-haul corporate retreats, to maximize your outreach. 

And timeliness is key. Planners expect rapid responses, even across time zones, so don’t delay any responses. This approach ensures you are funneling your efforts into RFPs that will generate results rather than trying to catch them all.

3. Leverage Cvent Analytics to Inform Strategy

Panicking about where to begin with Cvent? Its dashboards reveal generous insights including conversion rates, RFP volume by market, seasonality trends, and planner behavior. International DMOs must use this data to understand which markets, sectors, and group sizes are actively sourcing outside the U.S.

Reinforced with that information, your marketing team can better refine sales messaging, adjust market focus, and align local partners with demand from North American planners.

4. Personalize Follow-Up to Build Trust Across Borders

Winning destinations don’t stop at responding in-platform. DMOs need to engage in strong follow-up to move an RFP from interest to booking. 

For international DMOs, this means going beyond generic replies to highlight advantages that matter to planners evaluating long-haul options: visa processes, flight connectivity, cost savings, and cultural appeal. It’s an important moment to help keep your destination top of mind while answering any lingering questions.

Consider this an opportunity to share case studies, testimonials, or tailored itineraries that show how similar groups have successfully met in your destination. And be sure to stay engaged throughout the decision cycle with personalized touchpoints that reinforce credibility and trust.

It’s clear that for international DMOs, Cvent is a gateway to attracting and securing global meetings business—but only if used strategically. By optimizing profiles, qualifying leads, leveraging analytics, and closing the loop with smart follow-up, destinations can maximize their Cvent ROI.

If this all seems overwhelming, DCI is here to help! Our Lead Qualification Services help international DMOs sift through RFPs, prioritize the most viable leads, and respond quickly. Our team’s Closing Services guide you to craft persuasive responses and follow-ups that overcome distance, perception, and logistical barriers to convert RFPs into booked business. 

As you prepare your goals and outreach for 2026, now is the time to refine your approach and consider how DCI can partner with you to strengthen your strategy. Connect with Pamela Laite at pamela.laite@aboutdci.com to learn about DCI’s business event services.