What is the Future of Events and Conventions?
What is the Future of Events and Conventions?
The pandemic has greatly impacted business travel and the events and conventions that go along with it. If you are wondering what to expect when planning your next corporate event, we have gathered a list of what the future of events and conventions will look like. Event managers have had to come up with new ideas to evolve into this new normal. Keep these ideas in mind when planning and booking your event space for your next business event.
The Future of Events and Conventions
Contracts Will be More Detailed
In this now unpredictable travel climate, event contracts will get more detailed. It is wise to be prepared for the unexpected with contingencies. Make a list of options for your event based on several scenarios and bring these options to your event venue coordinators. You will need to read and understand the force majeure clause in your contract, as well as the fine print. Going forward with events and conferences, you will need to make sure all bases are covered.
Event In Person Attendance Will Be Smaller
Post-pandemic it is extremely likely that all new events will be planned with fewer attendees in mind. It is going to take a considerable amount of time before event attendance will get back to pre-pandemic levels, where everyone is comfortable with attending large events.
Virtual Corporate Meetings Will Continue to Trend
Virtual events will fill in the gaps for large event gatherings for the time being. During the pandemic, in-person events and conventions ceased. As a result, virtual event planning rose in popularity. Zoom has made it very easy to schedule these virtual meetings so those spread out over distances and time zones can connect and conduct business.
Health Screenings
Another element of this new normal will be health screenings before all events. Event attendees will want the confidence of knowing that other attendees are healthy and will not spread the virus. Event attendees should participate in health screenings before entering the venue and commit to leaving immediately if feeling any symptoms.
Sanitation and Disinfection
Increased cleaning and sanitation has been implemented during the pandemic and this will continue into the future. Event planners and venues need to let the public know of their commitment to these new protocols. Attendees need the peace of mind that they will remain healthy while at events.
Social Distancing and Masks
These days, people are comfortable with maintaining the standard social distancing of 6 feet from others. Shaking hands has now been replaced by nods or elbow bumps. Masks are here to stay for the foreseeable future. These new procedures have become part of everyday life as the new normal.
Outside Vendors
Event planners will need to pay attention to many details of the vendors hired for your event. All contracts must be reviewed carefully, especially the fine print, and a mutual understanding must be reached on all elements of the contract. This includes deposits, and who is liable if the contract is not honored.
Creative Planning
The pandemic has caused a new wave of creativity for event planning. This is the time to “think outside the box” and conjure up fresh ideas for your event planning. Enthusiasm for trying new things may result in your events being even better than you had imagined.
Traveler’s Q can help you with all your event planning and group travel management needs. Our event professionals can provide many event management tips and help you navigate the future of event planning. Contact us today to get started.
