The NASPP Blog

We’ve been running Meet the Speaker interviews in the NASPP blog lately to let our readers get to know the speakers at the 22nd NASPP Annual Conference and provide a sneak peak at their presentations.

Since this is a holiday week, I thought it would be a good time to take a break from our usual interviews and interview myself. There’s only one problem: I’m not speaking on any sessions this year (I guess I didn’t like any of my proposals–it’s very tough to be selected as a speaker), so the only topics I can interview myself on are the opening remarks and the award presentation.

NASPP:  We’ve heard that if people listen close during your opening remarks, they can hear your knees knocking together. Is this true?

Me:  Yes, it’s certainly possible!  It’s a big room; presenting to closely to 2,000 people is unnerving.  On top of that, I’m much more comfortable presenting technical information (if I could open the Conference with a brief overview of the Treasury Stock Method, I would be much happier).  It’s the only time I ever completely write out my remarks—word-for-word—in advance.

NASPP:  What are some tips you can offer to help people get the most out of the Conference?

Me:  Take advantage of the Stock Plan Experts that will be available to answer questions!  We have a list of close to 50 industry experts that have agreed to make themselves available to answer questions for attendees. These experts will be available during breaks in our Ask the Experts Booth and in their exhibit booths.  They include lawyers, compensation consultants, accountants, and administrative experts–whatever your question, there’s someone who can answer it.  It’s a great opportunity to get some free guidance on the challenges you are facing.

And join one of the luncheon roundtable discussions! We also will be featuring roundtable discussions during lunch on Tuesday, September 30. The topics will be listed in the Conference Guidebook and online.  You can participate in a discussion with like-minded attendees, share tips and experiences, and build your network all at the same time.

NASPP:  Is it worth it to get up early for the opening keynote on September 30?

Me:  Yes, absolutely. My understanding is that Broc Romanek is going to moderate the panel as his alter persona–Cap’n Cashbags. It’s worth it just for that.  It’s also going to be a keynote like you’ve never experienced before.  It’s a twist on one of our most popular sessions: the “Top Compensation Consultants Speak” panel. But this time, the audience will be able to vote a consultant of the panel after each question. If you’ve ever been listening to a panel and thought “Man, I’d really like to kick that guy off this panel,” now’s your chance!

NASPP:  We’ve heard a rumor that the location of next year’s Conference will be revealed after the Award Presentation on Wednesday, Oct 1.  Is this true and can you give us a hint?

Me:  Yes, it is true! I’m excited to report that we just last week signed the contract for next year’s Conference, so we will be announcing the dates and location at this year’s Conference.  I can tell you that we’ve been to this city before but it’s been a few years since we were last there. And I think people are going to be very excited about it; it’s certainly one of my favorite places to attend a Conference.

NASPP:  Don’t you say that about all the Conference locations?

Me:  Ok, yes, that’s probably true. They’re all my favorites.

About the NASPP Conference The 22^nd Annual NASPP Conference will be held from September 29-October 2 in Las Vegas. This year’s program features 60+ sessions on today’s most timely topics in stock compensation; check out the full agenda and register today!

– Barbara