Navigating the future of meetings and events

Find out the trends and innovations in meetings and events, and what you need to know to stay ahead of the game.

Find out the trends and innovations in meetings and events, and what you need to know to stay ahead of the game.

By Jeremy Bos

People seated in chairs attending a conference

Business travel has dramatically changed in recent years, with meetings and events being a key part of it. With the rapid development of technology and the need for sustainability, meeting and event formats have also evolved. In this blog post, you will learn everything you need to know to stay ahead of the latest trends and innovations.

Meetings and events have shifted from purely physical gatherings to a mix of physical, virtual, and hybrid formats. This evolution offers numerous opportunities but also challenges that need to be addressed.

Hybrid Meetings and Events: Bridging the Gap

Hybrid meetings and events combine the advantages of in-person and virtual meetings. They allow people who cannot be physically present to still participate and interact. However, this requires careful planning and the right technology to ensure that all participants have an equivalent experience.

Hybrid meeting with woman leading in a conference room

Virtual Meetings and Events: Technology and Engagement

Virtual meetings and events have seen a significant rise due to the pandemic. They offer flexibility and cost savings but also require specific technologies to secure participant engagement. Modern tools and platforms like CWT easy meetings and Zoom make it easier to create professional virtual meetings and incorporate interactive elements like polls and breakout sessions.

Benefits of In-Person Meetings and Events: Media Briefings and Public Meetings

Despite the digital shift, in-person events still hold their ground. They provide opportunities for direct human interaction, often missing in virtual formats. Especially for media briefings and public meetings, physical presence is invaluable for building trust and making personal connections.

Business meetings benefit immensely from the personal component, as non-verbal communication, such as body language and eye contact, is often crucial for establishing strong business relationships. This subtle but important interaction is difficult to replicate through digital means. Hence, business travel remains essential in an increasingly virtual world for forging deeper, more authentic connections and making important business decisions in a trusted environment.

Successful meetings and events require strategic planning and effective risk management. This includes selecting the right format, considering safety aspects, and adhering to budgets.

Strategic Meetings and Events: Maximizing Impact

Strategic meeting and event management means clearly defining your goals and aligning all activities to achieve them. This includes selecting suitable locations, the right mix of virtual and physical formats, and using modern technologies.

Risk management for meetings and events: Best practices

Risk management is a crucial factor for the success of meetings and events. It involves identifying potential risks and taking measures to minimize them. This includes safety plans, flexible cancellation policies, best practices, and securing insurance.

colleagues in a meeting room surrounded by trees

Sustainability and technological innovations play an increasingly important role in meeting and event management. Considering ecological aspects and integrating modern technologies can significantly enhance efficiency and participant experience.

Sustainable Meetings and Events: Environmentally Friendly Practices

Sustainability is a key aspect of modern meetings and events. This includes reducing waste, using renewable energy, and selecting environmentally friendly locations. By adopting sustainable practices, you can not only protect the environment but also improve your company’s image.

Technology for Meetings and Events: Enhancing Participant Experience

Technological solutions like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) offer new ways to make meetings and events more interactive and exciting. These technologies can help increase participant engagement and create an unforgettable experience.

The meetings and events market is diverse and there are numerous companies that are leaders in this field. We have compiled a list of the top five meetings and events companies here.

BCD Meetings and Events

BCD Meetings and Events offers comprehensive services for planning and conducting meetings and events. Their expertise and global resources make them a strong partner.

Meetings and Events International 

Known for their innovative concepts and tailored solutions, Meetings and Events International leverages creativity and technology to create unforgettable events.

CWT Meetings and Events 

CWT Meetings and Events is among the leading providers in the event management sector. Their platform, CWT easy meetings, simplifies the planning and execution of meetings. They have now been aquired by American Express.

American Express Meetings and Events 

Offering a wide range of services from strategic planning to execution, American Express Meetings and Events focuses on maximizing value for their clients.

USA

Meetings and events have different requirements and characteristics depending on the region. For example, California, USA offers a variety of attractive locations and has established itself as a hotspot for innovative and sustainable events. Particularly the technology industry utilizes the diverse opportunities in this region. Silicon Valley, as the heart of technological innovation, is a sought-after venue for conferences and trade shows showcasing the latest trends and developments.

Minnesota, on the other hand, is renowned for its hospitality and the availability of numerous top-notch venues. The Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul, offer a vibrant cultural scene and numerous hotels and conference centers, ideal for large meetings and conferences. Simultaneously, the state boasts stunning nature—from the shores of Lake Superior to the picturesque landscapes of the Boundary Waters.

The southern USA offers a unique blend of culture and history, adding a special charm to any event. Cities like Atlanta and New Orleans are popular destinations for meetings and conferences. Atlanta, as the economic hub of the South, offers modern conference centers and excellent infrastructure. The city is also known for its hospitality and rich cultural heritage. New Orleans, with its unique mix of French, Spanish, and Creole cultures, offers an unparalleled atmosphere. The historic buildings and vibrant music scene make every event an unforgettable experience.

Germany

Germany is known for its efficient organization and excellent infrastructure. Cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt offer numerous opportunities for successful meetings and events. Berlin, as the capital, is a center for politics, culture, and economy, offering a variety of venues that combine historical and modern elements. Munich, with its mix of tradition and innovation, offers excellent conference centers and a rich culture that enriches every event. Frankfurt, as a financial metropolis, is particularly attractive to international business travelers.

The meetings and event industry offers diverse career opportunities and is constantly evolving. In a globalized world where personal interaction and networking are crucial, the demand for professionals who can plan, coordinate, and successfully execute events is growing. From event planners and project managers to marketing specialists and technology experts—there are various roles in this sector, providing opportunities for different interests and skills.

The demand for professionals in meeting and event management is steadily increasing. Positions range from event planners to marketing specialists and technical support roles. Further education and specific qualifications can significantly improve your career prospects in this dynamic sector.

Management of meetings and events: optimizing processes

Effective management of meetings and events involves coordinating all involved parties and ensuring a smooth process. With the right tools and strategies, such as those offered by GetGoing, you can optimize your operations and ensure the success of your events. The future of meetings and events is diverse and exciting. With the right strategies, technologies, and partners, you can ensure that your meetings and events are always successful and leave a lasting impression. Stay updated on the latest trends and innovations and utilize the various opportunities available to you.

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