In the world of conferences and meetings, the post-pandemic period has brought about significant changes. Our recent event played a vital role in highlighting these key impacts on the industry.
At our recent event held on September 27, 2023, we brought together prominent industry leaders and experts from various corners of the globe. Together, they discussed the transformational impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the conference and meeting industry. Delving into key insights and trends, the event shed light on how this sector has adapted, evolved, and paved the way for a new era of gatherings in a post-pandemic world.
If you missed this event but are eager to grasp how the pandemic can influence member experiences in our increasingly digital world, we've summarized key takeaways for you.
Don't forget to stay tuned for upcoming events where top-level industry and association leaders share their insights.
Conference And Meeting Trends Post-Pandemic - Event Recap
"I think right now the technology that we have, you can't simulate that human connection. As in-person events resumed, attendees showed a strong desire to reconnect and network, resulting in record-breaking attendance numbers."
Luz Lobos, President of Synergy Design Group
Content is King
"Content was King, it was the speakers and it was the subject matter that they were talking about that they ranked the highest."
Cybelle Jones, CEO of the Society for Experiential Graphic Design
"The quality of content emerged as a crucial factor in event success. Attendees emphasized the importance of relevant and engaging content, making it one of the top priorities for event organizers."
Farukh Ijaz, Managing Partner and President of Consulting Services USA
Integration of Technology
“A platform is essential to help members realize the value of their membership. Previously, we relied on a list serve, which some members still used. However, when we transitioned to Glue Up, most members embraced it quickly. Now, within days of our conference, members are actively engaging, seeking advice, and forming connections."
Cybelle Jones, CEO, Society of Experiential Graphic Design (SEGD) at SEGD
"The integration of technology, including event apps and virtual components, has become essential for enhancing participant engagement and bridging geographical barriers."
Dawna Hines, County Executive Director of the National Association of County Office Employees
“We have found that cultivating partnerships with complementary associations, such as our engagement with electrical counterparts as a mechanical organization, has been instrumental in cost-sharing and enhancing the overall event experience. Networking and resource utilization have become integral components of our event planning, a lesson learned and applied through our experiences in the association world over the past five years.”
Cost Considerations
"One of the issues is also that the increase in cost for implementation labor material handling Freight always come into play whether you're a show organizer an exhibitor or participant."
Cybelle Jones, CEO of the Society for Experiential Graphic Design
"The rising costs associated with hosting in-person events, including labor, materials, and venue expenses, were acknowledged. To address this, organizers are looking for innovative ways to optimize budgets without compromising on the event experience."
Farukh Ijaz, Managing Partner and President of Consulting Services USA
Collaboration and Expansion
"Collaborative efforts among organizations and associations to share resources and co-host events have become a cost-effective trend."
Luz Lobos, President of Synergy Design Group
"Collaborative efforts among organizations have become a cost-effective trend, enabling smaller organizations to participate and engage with larger audiences."
Cybelle Jones, CEO of the Society for Experiential Graphic Design
Hybrid Event Models
"To accommodate diverse attendee preferences and reach wider audiences, many organizers are adopting hybrid event models, combining both virtual and in-person elements."
Dawna Hines, County Executive Director of the National Association of County Office Employees
"To accommodate diverse attendee preferences and reach wider audiences, many organizers are adopting hybrid event models, combining both virtual and in-person elements."
Farukh Ijaz, Managing Partner and President of Consulting Services USA
Conscious Budgeting
"We're always looking to be budget-minded because it's members' money that we're spending on this, and it's expensive."
Dawna Hines, County Executive Director of the National Association of County Office Employees
"Organizers are becoming increasingly mindful of budget allocation, ensuring that member contributions are spent effectively and efficiently."
Cybelle Jones, CEO of the Society for Experiential Graphic Design
Personalization and Networking
"I think that level of personalization definitely made a difference for us, and when you say record numbers, it was nearly double what we were."
Cybelle Jones, CEO of the Society for Experiential Graphic Design
"Creating personalized and immersive experiences for attendees through bespoke and concierge services can significantly enhance event value. Networking opportunities also remain a top priority for participants."
Luz Lobos, President of Synergy Design Group
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, the industry continues to evolve, driven by the collective commitment to creating meaningful, engaging, and safe gatherings in a post-pandemic world. However, with Glue Up, you will be able to embrace these trends, leverage technology wisely, and remain at the forefront of this dynamic industry.
Get a demo to experience these trends first-hand and stay tuned for more insights from industry leaders in future events, as we navigate the ever-changing landscape of conferences and meetings in a post-pandemic era.
