Against the backdrop of workplace insecurity and negative public perceptions, corporate meeting and incentive managers have to find ways to cope. We turned to Joan Westreich, a New York City-based psychotherapist and organizational consultant for advice on staying strong in the maelstrom.

“First, you must truly and authentically believe in what you're doing,” says Westreich, who provides executive coaching and staff training to individuals, companies, and nonprofits. “I would suggest that it is a sign of strength to be able to tolerate the skepticism of critics. Likewise, it is a sign of professionalism and well-honed survival skills to become your own best public-relations person and deftly and knowledgeably address potential criticism even as you set about reframing the discourse.”

Public perceptions, she says, are “like the Dow Jones Averages.” They may fluctuate wildly, but maintaining a strong sense of self “will help you weather these challenging times. It will also provide a solid footing from which to embrace new business opportunities.”

Today's troubles, she argues, present more chances to shine than most people imagine. “In times of adversity, some people hunker down, take no risks, and hide under the desk, so to speak. But I believe that in tough times the best meeting planners get creative. They will realistically assess the shifting environment, and through brainstorming and collaboration with colleagues, will strive to develop new paradigms — and to find opportunities where previously none existed.

“Maybe it's time to shake up the way you manage your meetings,” she continues. “Maybe inertia has led to missed opportunities for developing a new breed of smaller-scale or more creative conferences. Maybe having to do more with fewer resources will foster innovation and teambuilding.” Westreich's best analogy: “Visualize a favorite low-budget film that packs more creative and emotional payoff than a bloated star-vehicle.”

But while Westreich applauds those who challenge themselves during hard times, she also recognizes planners' concerns about their jobs and keeping their departments intact.

“No matter the maelstrom swirling around you, difficult times demand a commitment to extreme self-care. If you want to put your best professional game forward, do not skimp on sleep, a healthy diet, exercise, stress reduction, medical checkups, etc. In anxious times, we yearn to be with colleagues who are healthy, strong, calm, and rooted in excellently performing current tasks while looking toward the future.”