Details
 

December 17, 2024
9:00AM - 12:00PM

Business Operations and Technology Workshop

Online Registration is Open!

OFDA Office, Columbus, Ohio

How to Register:

Register Online Here!

By registering for this event, you consent that photos and videos of you at the event may be published in print, online or in online photo albums; on photo/video-sharing sites such as YouTube; on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Google+; and in other web-based media at the sole discretion of OFDA.

Registration Fees:

  • OFDA Member: $99
  • OFDA Non-Member: $129

Cancellation Policy:

  • All cancellations are subject to a $25 Administrative Processing Fee
  • For full refund (minus administrative processing fee), OFDA office must be notified 24 hours prior to the start of the scheduled program

The Program:

Join us for an engaging three-hour workshop where we'll dive into key topics shaping the future of preneed services. Explore shifting consumer preferences for preplanning, tackle staffing challenges, discover how technology is transforming preneed marketing, and examine the ethical considerations of advance arrangements. Don't miss this opportunity to stay ahead in the evolving landscape of funeral service.

SWOT Analysis Workshop (2 Hours) – Instructor: Chris Cruger

The SWOT Analysis, while a classic business tool, remains highly effective when used correctly. This interactive workshop will guide you through identifying the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats ("SWOT") impacting your funeral home today. With input from your team, you'll build a strategic plan to leverage strengths, address gaps, seize new opportunities, and reduce risks facing your business and the funeral profession. We will explore critical factors such as shifting consumer behaviors, staffing challenges, technology advancements, and ethical considerations that influence decision-making. Attendees will be required to complete pre-work, gathering insights from their team to maximize the workshop’s value.

Marketing Strategies (1 Hour) – Instructor: Mitch Smith

This session will provide practical steps to enhance your funeral home’s online presence and customer engagement. Key topics include:

  • Google Business Optimization: Set up and optimize your Google Business Account with accurate details, photos, and reviews to reflect your services 24/7.

  • Website Strategy: Ensure your website represents your brand clearly and provides an easy-to-navigate user experience, focusing on key service areas and offering valuable pre-planning information.

  • Staff Training: Equip your staff to guide customers through your website, ensuring they can answer questions about pricing, navigate the customer journey, and uphold ethical standards in line with funeral regulations.

By implementing these strategies, you’ll strengthen customer trust, generate leads, and build a solid online presence.

Program Schedule:

  • Arrival/Registration: 8:30 am
  • Program: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm 

CE Information:

  • Pending approval through the State of Ohio Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors.
  • 3 Total CE that includes:
    • 2.0 Hours General
    • 1.0 Hour Preneed Ethics Principles

Venue Location:

The program will be located at the OFDA Office, 2501 North Star Road, Columbus, OH 43221. Parking is located behind the front of the building, off of College Hill Drive.

Meet Your Trainers:

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Chris Cruger - 2021

 

Chris Cruger, Chief Executive Officer, The Foresight Companies

Chris Cruger is the Chief Executive Officer of Foresight, a premier consulting firm specializing in the funeral and cemetery profession. He is seen as a thought leader with an ability to provide effective solutions to the business challenges funeral and cemetery leaders are faced with. His passion for the development of the funeral and cemetery profession come through in everything that he does. Chris began his career in the funeral and cemetery profession over 25 years ago as part of the Corporate Development team for SCI. His career spans North America, five continents and 25 countries. He has cross-dimensional experience in finance, sales, transactions, and operational management with both public and private companies and their Board of Directors. He regularly consults with members of the financial community on matters related to funeral service and has strong relationships in capital markets. A native New Englander, Chris graduated from Lehigh University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, focusing on finance and accounting. He is the father of two boys and enjoys golf, fitness, hunting, fishing, travel, and outdoor activities.

For over five years, Chris has spoken at both the state and national level for funeral home and cemetery associations. Most recently he has participated in OFDA District meetings. In addition, he has been a featured participant and moderator for event panels and webinars.
Mitch_Smith_2024

 

Mitch Smith, AVP - Partner Development, eFuneral Solutions

Mitch Smith is Director of Partnership Development for eFuneral Solutions, LLC. Prior to joining eFuneral, Mitch spent a decade in financial services and marketing. He has a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Iowa State University and an MBA from Bellevue University.

 

2024 Sustaining Sponsors

 

 

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