Skift Meetings

Australia's incredible scenery, boom in state-of-the-art meeting venues and accommodation, and commitment to sustainability have placed it top of mind for incentive trip and association meeting planners. Produced in Partnership with Business Events Australia https://hubs.li/Q02Gz_0j0

One mistake many planners make is not factoring in a networking plan at the beginning of the process and instead waiting until the event to start connecting attendees. Many industry experts agree that the networking portion of a meeting requires as much forethought as programming the speakers and sessions. Explore more in our latest free-to-download report: https://hubs.li/Q02G9YlC0 This report is sponsored by Cvent.

A new industry survey reveals senior incentive travel planners' current priorities and pain points as they navigate rising costs, evolving expectations, and a quickly shifting geopolitical landscape. https://hubs.li/Q02Gqv160

The Austin Convention Center will close on April 1, 2025, following next year’s South by Southwest to start work on a new, larger facility scheduled to reopen in 2029. That means Austin will be without a major convention center for four years. https://hubs.li/Q02GpR-10

Tech tools for networking range from the basic, such as creating Facebook or WhatsApp groups for attendees, to the more sophisticated, such as using AI-powered event tech to help bring attendees together. A wide range of companies offer fully featured event apps that give attendees access to resources like attendee lists, in-app messaging, discussion groups, matchmaking algorithms and even gamification right in the palm of their hands. Some apps offer group chat based on topics of interest, while others feature social walls that use AI to identify attendees in event photos. AI technology is already used in most event apps and matchmaking tools, as it helps facilitate networking and connection before, during and after events Whether AI-powered or not, matchmaking technology increases the chances of meaningful connections by pairing individuals with similar interests or complementary business needs. This technology can be instrumental in running pre-scheduled or facilitated meetings at events, including those with hosted buyers. One benefit of event technology that should not be overlooked is the ability to collect data about events, including the extent of networking among attendees. Technology can be used to track things like the number of connections made at a meeting and business deals closed directly related to it. Post-event surveys or feedback forms can also gather attendees’ perspectives on the networking opportunities provided. Furthermore, apps and community platforms can facilitate discussion afterward, becoming online communities that keep the post-event conversation going. Explore this concept and much more in our latest report: https://hubs.li/Q02GcrMk0 This report is sponsored by Cvent.

🤝 All you need to know about what to expect at Skift Meetings Forum, all in one place. Read more: https://hubs.li/Q02GdmSW0

Companies increasingly use events to bring together remote workers, making networking an even more vital component of in-person events. Ken Holsinger, senior vice president of strategy for Freeman Company, sees a shift in the current demographics’ priorities. Younger generations prefer to participate in discussions at conferences rather than sit and listen to experts. “Millennials and Gen Z are struggling to catch up quickly with the skills and environment for building the kind of network they need for their careers. The number one place they want to accelerate that is at events,” said Holsinger. Download our latest report now to turn your events into dynamic environments that foster genuine connections. Link: https://hubs.li/Q02G9Tdw0 This report is sponsored by Cvent.

The latest SITE snapshot survey reveals senior incentive travel planners' current priorities and pain points as they navigate rising costs, evolving expectations, and a quickly shifting geopolitical landscape. It won't surprise anyone that rising costs and inflation are major concerns. But it may surprise some that inclusivity is top of the list when it comes to must-haves. The findings also highlight the constant issue of securing an appealing destination with great properties that is safe and well-connected but still offers value for money and is not impacted by geopolitical situations. Read the full story here: https://hubs.li/Q02G9Hnm0

Creating authentic and unexpected experiences is a surefire way to maintain attendee engagement, thus making your event much more valuable than a standard day inside a convention center. Produced in partnership with Arizona Office of Tourism

📘 Our latest report delves into the essence of networking. It is a guide for planners looking to transforming transactional gatherings into dynamic environments that foster genuine connections. Download your free copy here: https://hubs.li/Q02G2QPk0 💡 With insights from industry experts, this report reveals how thoughtful and intentional networking strategies can enhance engagement and cultivate deep professional relationships. Key topics: 🤝 Designing events to facilitate connections 🛠️ Innovative networking tactics, including activities, spaces, settings, session formats, fostering belonging, and the strategic use of name badges 🗺️ The pivotal role of destinations and venues 📱 Leveraging technology to support networking Don’t miss this chance to elevate your event design skills and create unforgettable networking experiences that leave a lasting impact. Download the report now to revolutionize your approach to event networking. This report is sponsored by Cvent