Peggy Bilous, Vice President at SMASH, joined this week’s Roundtable to share her journey through senior living and the evolution of one of the industry’s most dynamic events.
With more than a decade of experience cultivating SMASH, Peggy offered insights on how collaboration, creativity, and a deep understanding of the industry have shaped both her career and the event’s success. She also reflected on the changing landscape of senior living—and what it takes to stay ahead in a field that’s always moving forward.
COLLABORATION FUELS GROWTH
Building something from the ground up takes time, but collaboration makes it thrive. The SMASH team constantly bounced ideas off each other, keeping things fresh. Daily check-ins and open dialogue made all the difference in turning a startup into a lasting success.
SENIOR LIVING EXPERTS SHARING KNOWLEDGE
The senior living industry is filled with passionate professionals who truly care about their work. People spend their careers here, not just for a job, but to make a difference. Industry leaders are always willing to share their knowledge, offering guidance to those eager to learn.
EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED IN EVENTS
Event planning always comes with surprises—no matter how well you prepare, something will go wrong. Expect the unexpected, stay flexible, and be ready to problem-solve on the fly. The key is preparation, adaptability, and knowing that challenges are just part of the process.
ADAPTING TO INDUSTRY SHIFTS
The senior living industry is constantly evolving. Adapting to change—whether demographic shifts, the pandemic, or rapid technological growth—is essential. Collaboration has become more critical than ever, as providers streamline solutions and embrace new tools to work more efficiently. Flexibility and innovation are key to staying ahead in this field.
THE POWER OF CUSTOMER SERVICE
Genuine customer service is key to successful sales. Taking the time to understand clients’ priorities and going the extra mile builds trust and long-term relationships. It’s not just about selling, it’s about helping clients grow their business by addressing their needs with care and dedication.
Varsity’s Roundtable is a weekly virtual gathering of senior living marketers and leaders from across the nation. For updates about future weekly Roundtable gatherings, submit your name and email address here.
