Grow Your Video Business with Ryan Koral

447. How to Become an Indispensable Event Partner Instead of Just Another Vendor with Phil Mershon

Jul 21, 2025

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Phil Mershon, founder of Social Media Marketing World and Unforgettable Events, shares insider secrets on how video producers can transform from vendors into strategic partners. He reveals the mindset shifts and tactical approaches that make event organizers choose you over the competition. This episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone wanting to build long-term relationships with event clients.

Key Takeaways

Position yourself as a strategic partner by understanding client goals and revenue outcomes, not just filming requirements
Treat hybrid events like television productions to create experiences that compete with Netflix-quality content people expect today
Use daily check-ins and "must-have" lists to ensure you capture critical moments while staying flexible for spontaneous opportunities
Ask outcome-focused questions upfront to become the thinking partner who takes pressure off your client's team

About Phil Mershon

Phil Mershon is CEO of Unforgettable Experiences and the director of experience for Social Media Examiner where he helped create and lead Social Media Marketing World. Phil creates memorable experiences that lead to increased retention, and impact. In addition, Phil is also a keynote speaker, corporate trainer, consultant, and the author of Unforgettable: The Art and Science of Creating Memorable Experiences.

In This Episode

[00:00] Welcome to the show!
[04:26] Meet Phil Mershon
[06:51] Phil's Journey to Event Planning
[10:23] Event Recap Videos
[18:34] Getting Hired for Events
[21:58] Become a Thinking Partner
[32:02] How to Not Miss Moments
[35:51] Interview Questions
[43:22] Social Media Marketing World
[46:32] Connect with Phil
[48:28] Outro

Quotes

"You become part of our team as opposed to a vendor who we have to manage." - Phil Mershon

"Your show is competing with Netflix and Amazon and all these things right now. And we can help you." - Ryan Koral

"If you can stand out and say, we get it... we can make this show maybe not the same quality because we don't have a million dollar budget, but it can feel that way." - Phil Mershon

"The first thing that's going to get my attention is you've understood what my goals are and you know how to make those a reality as opposed to talking about gear and people." - Phil Mershon

"You still have to have great content to show me you've got skill. I don't care what kind of cameras you're using. I just need what's the outcome." - Phil Mershon