Muhammad Younas’ Post

Whether you’re planning an event or attending one – here are just five reasons to embrace a hybrid model: 🔶 The hybrid experience is multi-layered and entertaining — from live and recorded content to fantastic speakers and interactive online capabilities for polls, online discussions, prizes and networking. 🔶 Connection and personalisation are effortless — guests can interact with speakers (and each other) in person and online. 🔶 Research shows attendees of virtual events are more likely to engage directly with speakers and celebrities than at in-person events. 🔶 Data collection helps businesses to learn — event planners can use hybrid event platforms to get a clear picture of what worked well and what could be improved for future events. 🔶 A higher ROI is possible — while hybrid events aren’t cheap for event organisers, the return on investment is often higher if you have interstate or international staff keen to attend. Click here for more info: https://bit.ly/4dbx15Y #HybridEvents #EventPlanning #VirtualEngagement #LiveEvents

Since the global pandemic in 2020, the event industry has evolved, with virtual and hybrid options becoming the new norm. Over four years later, these options remain popular. Why? The event landscape is changing! Attendees love the convenience of joining informational sessions or Q&As with industry leaders from anywhere in the world. This accessibility opens doors to events that were previously out of reach, making virtual guest experiences just as crucial as in-person ones. At Abstract Elements, we leverage our extensive experience in executing memorable in-person and virtual events. We ensure that all attendees, whether in-person or online, are set up and ready to participate. With accessibility and attendee experience as our top priorities, partnering with Ae guarantees an outstanding event for everyone. Want to create events that impact people locally and globally?🌍 Connect with us here: https://lnkd.in/dtrC8pg

Lacking inspiration for your next event? Here, we turn to the industry that’s throwing some of the most epic events in the world right now. From SXSW to Hubspot’s Inbound, it’s no secret the tech industry puts on some of the most successful, world-renown events 🧑💻 Whether it’s an in-house meeting or a huge industry convention, event planners can learn a lot from how this industry approaches its gatherings. Whether you take inspiration from the sheer scale of their events or simply from the no-holds-barred partnership strategies, we think you’ll appreciate the effort that goes into planning events that reach far beyond Silicon Valley. Here are some tips and tricks to help you plan your next event, using that tech industry mindset 🧠 https://lnkd.in/gZsw9HSW #eventplanningtips #corporateevents #eventplanning #freeservice #venuecrew

🚨🚨 Event Tech World Meet-Up – free for corporate event profs and commercial conference/expo folks: 10th October, Central London. If you run events (you’re still reading, so probably!) and use tech for registration or delivery, this is for you. Actually, it’s a must. Join me and 15 event profs to share actual real life practical experiences on how to achieve a single attendee view, even when juggling multiple tech platforms. Goldman Sachs and a Big 4 firm are already signed up. 📍 5:15-8pm, 10th October at the stunning etc.venues, Chancery Lane. This is your chance to swap success stories (and maybe some of those more challenging lessons learned) with fellow event tech buyers and users. Thanks to sponsorship from @First Event, it's completely free 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼 Last time, we discussed 28 tools and platforms, shared real-world examples, and even explored some AI use cases. It was brilliant 🤩. So, if you’re a corporate event prof (or even in the marketing team and run events) or in commercial conferencing/expos, register via the link in comments. But please, this is only for the tech users and buyers – event tech/martech suppliers, I’ve got something in the works for you! DM me for details, but kindly don’t sign up for this one 🙏🏼. Got questions? Ask away! #eventprofs #eventtech #community

Today, Freeman Company released their Q2 edition of the trends report, this time focusing on exhibitors. Here's the TL;DR - none of which are surprising: 🙌 Exhibitors want more customers and prospects at the show 🙌 Exhibitors want pricing transparency and more packages 🙌 Exhibitors want to quickly qualify/disqualify leads 🙌 Exhibitors want more quality networking time My confirmation bias sought out validation on engagement, so here's how I'm reading it: 👉 STAT: 69% of exhibitors say getting an attendee list offers added value. 🔴 PROBLEM: Attendees are registering at the last minute, making it embarrassing and scary to provide "light" lists early, and impossible to align participation decisions on attendees. 🙌 SOLUTION: Sharing company/title is SO helpful to *everyone*! Do it! 👉 STAT: Networking and commerce are the top two reasons to exhibit. 🔴 PROBLEM: Not enough networking time or opportunities. 🙌 SOLUTION: More whitespace in the agenda. Dedicated show hours that don't conflict with sessions. More curated networking (i.e. think tanks, roundtables, collision-rich environments) 👉  STAT: Networking/meetings with attendees ranked highest in importance, but only 37% of exhibitors want tech to help them connect. 🔴 PROBLEM: Organizers are trying to fix the networking problem with tech tools, but the people just want more time with the people. 🙌 SOLUTION: More time in the agenda for conversation, not just listening. 👉  STAT: 44% of exhibitors believe that small group discussions are the most influential teaching/learning opportunity. 🔴 PROBLEM: Most events prioritize large "sit and get" breakout sessions. 🙌 SOLUTION: More roundtables, think tanks, topic-based meetups. 👉  STAT: Topic-specific meetups ranked as the most valuable networking opportunity amongst exhibitors (43%), which aligns with attendees’ networking priorities. 🔴 PROBLEM: Organizers fail to add this into the agenda, favoring traditional breakout sessions. 🙌 SOLUTION: Just add them! More roundtables, think tanks, topic-based meetups. 👉  STAT: 27% of exhibitors rated speed meetups as important, but attendees rank them as the least important networking element (8%). 🔴 PROBLEM: Exhibitors want to quickly qualify/disqualify leads, but attendees are looking for more value when they network. 🙌 SOLUTION: Topic-based small group discussions help provide value to both exhibitors and attendees. 👉  STAT: 95% of exhibitors ranked Meeting/Networking with Customers/Prospects as the #1 reason for exhibiting, but only 59% are satisfied. 🔴 PROBLEM: Organizers are not fulfilling the audience acquisition promises like they used to, and when they do, they aren't providing enough opportunities to network. 🙌 SOLUTION: Audience acquisition is everyone's job. Exhibitors and speakers need to help spread the word to get more registrants. Grab the whole report here:

Gear up for an extraordinary journey at the Lancemore Mansion from 17-19 April, where the future of event planning unfolds. Thanks to our sponsor Melbourne Convention Bureau, The Association Event Innovators Retreat is not just an event; it's a catalyst for transformation, designed for those ready to lead and innovate. 🏰💫 This retreat is a must-attend to gain insights from industry leaders on the forefront of event innovation. You'll discover new methodologies in audience engagement, revenue enhancement, inclusivity, and sustainability to set your events apart. Meet Our Fabulous Facilitators: Angela Shelton: Master the art of collaboration for unparalleled event success. Julian Moore: Dive into the world of AI to enhance your event marketing and make informed decisions. Cindy-Lee Bakos: Reimagine audience engagement and dive deep into innovative event design. Jamila Javanshir (MBA): Leverage strategic connections to unlock exceptional value for your events. Joanne L Kane: Learn innovative revenue strategies that will increase your event's profitability. Manisha Amin: Embrace inclusivity and sustainability in your event planning for a better future. Don't miss this chance to transform your approach to event planning and step into the future. Secure your spot at the Association Event Innovators Retreat now (limited spots remaining). Register Here https://bit.ly/3SZx5wC 🚀 #EventInnovatorsRetreat #LancemoreMansion #MelbourneConventionBureau #FutureOfEvents #EventPlanningRevolution #AIForEvents #Collaboration #AudienceEngagement #StrategicConnections #RevenueStrategies #EventInclusivity #EventSustainability #AnswersforAssociations #AssociationCommunity #AssnChat #AssnProfs #AssociationHub #Associations #AssociationLeadership #AnswersPartner

Wondering if your events really stick? You should be! #EventProfs #EventTech #MeetingProfs #AIinEvents #EventPlanning #Innovation #BusinessEvents #CorporateEvents

Successful Association Conferences written by Ingrid Rip Event Design Collective Nederland – Series 4/7 Decide on Community Involvement Hey conference planners, are you ready to find out what is the next step in going to a proactive conference tender process? Today, we're diving into the importance of involving your local community and how it can transform your conference experience. Let's get started: 🔹 Why Local Community Involvement Matters: Engaging your community isn't just about filling seats—it's about fostering loyalty and commitment. By understanding their needs and aspirations, you create a space where they feel valued and empowered to grow. 🔹 Building Long-Term Bonds: Provide your community with valuable content that aligns with their professional development goals, and watch their commitment soar. When they see the direct impact of your conference on their growth, they'll be eager to stay involved long after the event ends. 🔹 Harnessing Local Support: When scouting potential destinations, consider more than just logistics. Seek out communities willing to go the extra mile, whether through financial support, unique experiences, or cultural immersion. A strong local network adds depth and richness to your event, leaving attendees inspired and engaged. 🔹 Creating Unforgettable Experiences: Injecting local flavor into your event enhances the overall experience and fosters a sense of belonging. From historical landmarks to regional cuisine, these experiences create lasting memories and fuel attendee satisfaction. Practical Tips: • Maximize Value: Engage local stakeholders as speakers, sponsors, and hosts to create a win-win scenario for all involved. • Embrace Complexity: Understand the diverse needs of your stakeholders and empathize with their perspectives to tailor your event accordingly. • Leverage Local Expertise: Collaborate with your local hosts to curate unforgettable experiences that enhance attendee retention and satisfaction. Ready to cultivate a vibrant, engaged community around your conference? Stay tuned for more insights as we prepare to release our whitepaper on July 16th! 🎉 #AssociationConferences #EventPlanning #StakeholderEngagement #LongTermGoals #DesignThinking #EventCanvas #StrategicPlanning #ConferenceSuccess #eventdesign Image courtesy of Event Design Collective GmbH copyright 2021

I've always believed in the importance of investing in professional development. As event professionals, we excel at planning and managing projects, yet often struggle to prioritise our own career advancement. It's time to back ourselves and dedicate time to our own growth, and this is one of those key PD opportunities that you should put your hand up to attend! Answers for Associations do really have the answers when it comes to uncovering the latest insights and innovative strategies you could implement to set your events apart! I'll be joining some other great leaders in events space 17-19 April at the Lancemore Mansion for the Event Innovators Retreat to unpack and share some new methodologies that could transform your events from wow to super pow! Angela Shelton: Master the art of collaboration for unparalleled event success. Julian Moore: Dive into the world of AI to enhance your event marketing and make informed decisions. Cindy-Lee Bakos: Reimagine audience engagement and dive deep into innovative event design. Jamila Javanshir (MBA): Leverage strategic connections to unlock exceptional value for your events. Manisha Amin: Embrace inclusivity and sustainability in your event planning for a better future. Check out the details below and register today!

Event organizers want attendees to be fully present and engaged during every second of an event. However, attendees want to be able to duck in and out of sessions, take calls and keep up with work. Am I wrong? Are these two compatible? Perhaps the bigger question is whether we can design engaging event experiences that allow attendees can pick and choose what they actively participate in. Who has cracked this?