2023 marked a transformative shift in business meetings—prioritizing meaningful interactions and sustainability. As we anticipate the year ahead, key trends emerge, emphasizing personalization, technology, sustainability, and the significance of face-to-face connections.
Year 2023 was a year that showcased how the future of work took a huge leap after the Pandemic. We highly valued face-to-face interactions, and we didn’t want to give up on remote working. As a result, we saw a significant shift from larger events to smaller events; less frequent but higher quality events.
Many of our customers especially invested in team buildings and alignment workshops, aiming to balance the negative impact of remote work. We have also observed an emphasis on sustainability in events. The ‘build and toss’ approach is avoided but reusable setup becomes more preferred. More sustainable food and beverage choices have increasingly become the norm.
Here are 5 pivotal business meeting trends for success in 2024
- Face-to-Face Time as a New Asset
- Elevated Focus on Personalization and Tailored Experiences
- Real-time, Online Booking and Instant Availability
- Emphasis on Fewer but Grander Events – importance of Inspiring Spaces
- Continued Focus on Sustainable Event Practices
1. FACE-TO-FACE TIME AS A NEW ASSET
In the evolving hybrid work landscape, face-to-face interaction is increasingly valued as a precious asset. Create moments that unite people, ignite ideas, and give energy! Studies by Harvard Business Review reveal that face-to-face interactions build trust, foster collaboration, and increase productivity. Investing in meaningful physical gatherings sparks creativity and strengthens relationships, crucial for business success.
2. ELEVATED FOCUS ON PERSONALIZATION AND TAILORED EXPERIENCES
According to Eventbrite’s research, 78% of attendees are more likely to engage with an event if it’s personalized to their interests. Hence, one needs to prioritize better understanding individual attendee interests, and preferences to curate tailored experiences. It will significantly boosts engagement and satisfaction, enhancing the overall event impact.
3. REAL-TIME, ONLINE BOOKING, AND INSTANT AVAILABILITY
Research by Cvent indicates that 60% of event organizers expect real-time online booking options. HUONE also has experienced consistent growth in online bookings through our reservation system. This user-friendly platform allows individuals to swiftly check space availability, explore various space options and packages, and complete bookings within a mere 2 minutes!
4. EMPHASIS ON FEWER BUT BIGGER EVENTS – INSPIRING SPACES
Quality over quantity; the focus will shift towards hosting fewer but larger-scale events, placing greater importance on the choice of venue and space. Seek unique and inspiring spaces that leave a lasting impression, understanding that the environment significantly contributes to the event’s impact and attendees’ overall experience.
5. INTENSIFIED FOCUS ON SUSTAINABLE EVENT PRACTICES
Sustainability will be at the forefront of event planning in 2024. Incorporating eco-friendly practices not only aligns with corporate responsibility but also resonates positively with attendees, elevating event’s reputation and impact.
We look forward to this new year to further develop our commitment to meaningful, more sustainable meetings!
With love,
Evon