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Four days, 50 educational sessions, and 700 jewelers added up to a successful American Gem Society Conclave in Seattle in April. Speakers at the event included Martin Lindstrom, Scott Ginsberg, Malcolm Gladwell, and Ross Shafer.

But the education won’t stop after conclave this year. AGS announced a new comprehensive ongoing sales training program, developed with Richardson, the global leader in sales training programs. The new “Custom Sales Training: Measured Results” program includes a two-day instructor-led customized member sales training class; a one-day class for AGS members who are managers and trainers; and an on-line interactive web-based course designed to provide ongoing support to the instructor-led classes.

“We have offered our members the best in networking and education, the most up-to-date gemological training through our titles, leading-edge marketing programs and support, and a community that is second to none,” says Ruth Batson, executive director of AGS. “The custom sales training program is customized to meet member needs. It’s powerful and when followed it will make a positive impact on the bottom line of their business.”

Richardson designed the instructor-led classes and content in tandem with a committee comprised of AGS members and staff. The classes feature jewelry sales scenarios, role-playing, an overview of sales styles, fundamental selling skills to overcome customer objections, guidance for positioning against the competition, and sales framework.

The first instructor-led courses will take place during JCK Las Vegas, June 4-5, 2008, at AGS headquarters in Las Vegas. The web-based courses can serve as either an introduction to the program or as ongoing support for the instructor-led training classes.

AGS also inaugurated a new president at conclave: Mark Moeller of R.F. Moeller Jeweler, St. Paul, Minnesota. Susan and Glenn Rothman, founders and owners of Hearts On Fire, are the 2008 recipients of the AGS Robert M. Shipley Award, conferred annually in recognition of outstanding service.

Jewelers for Children, in partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, granted its one thousandth wish at the show: a trip to Paris for a child and her family. Through the charitable donations and contributions of society members, over $75,000 was raised at the event.
The next Conclave will be held in Chicago on April 1-4, 2009. For information on attending, e-mail conclave09@ags.org.