New generation drives innovation

As we settle into 2019, this next year promises unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Despite the uncertainty cast by (dare we mention?) Brexit, there’s a lot to look forward to in the events management world – offering a refreshing breath of optimism and excitement.

Certain emerging trends are being driven by the growing influence of Generation Y, the often much-maligned millennials, which appears to be prompting a shift in focus in terms of event innovation and trends.

Health and wellbeing

People are increasingly concerned about their physical and mental health, fitness, sense of wellbeing and work-life balance.

You are what you eat

With heightened awareness of the effect of what we eat on our health and the environment, there is a greater demand for healthy, responsibly produced food. When organising catering for your next event, why not have some fun exploring the ever-widening choice out there? Think global cuisine, locally sourced ingredients, vegan options, organic and raw foods.

Relax

Achieving a healthy work-life balance is arguably a more important aspiration among young professionals than in previous generations. Members of Generation Y recognise the need for down-time in a world teeming with fast-paced technology. Events should factor in ‘brain breaks’ from the business of the day, allowing time in the agenda and providing break-out areas to enable participants to think, reflect and relax.

Get social

With the inexorable shift from face-to-face to more online interaction in both our work and leisure time, events are a great opportunity to meet, mingle and network in a refreshingly human way. It makes sense to arrange ice-breaker activities and social areas to encourage people to chat informally, share ideas and debate topics raised.

Inspiration and purpose

There is greater emphasis on events becoming more socially responsible and having a wider impact, bringing people together to achieve a shared mission.

Make a difference

Many large events now tend to be centred around an underlying message, social statement or purpose. Attendees get the sense of a bigger picture and the chance to play their part in making a positive impact towards the ultimate aim – whether that involves tackling the gender pay gap or improving diversity in the workplace.

A sense of community

Linking in with the local community in some way helps to give your event a unique flavour and your audience a feel-good buzz, as well as supporting the area’s social and economic health. So team up with local suppliers for cost-effective products and services, or check out how local charities, health organisations or youth groups could add an extra dimension.

Watch your carbon footprint

The focus on environmental awareness and sustainability is here to stay. As the global impact of our activities continues to hit the headlines, forward-thinking organisations are building environmental responsibility into their business strategies. Event planners need to support these aims by reducing potential pollution and waste while increasing recycling and sustainable alternatives.

A memorable journey

Events should engage and inspire, so planners have to be prepared to do things differently in order to achieve their mission of drawing people in and firing their imagination.

Technology is the norm

A generation which has grown up in the digital age, who cannot conceive of a world without smartphones and social media, look for the latest technology to be embraced in all aspects of their lives – from a team-building ‘away day’ to a networking conference. Events will increasingly harness virtual reality, augmented reality and artificial intelligence to help create a truly engaging and immersive experience.

Personalisation

Millennials expect to be engaged, involved and able to shape what is going on around them. So events must encourage a two-way conversation by taking a different approach to format and presentation, with opportunities to influence the agenda and subject matter through interaction, discussion and debate.

Inspiring venues

There is a growing appetite for stand-out, non-traditional event venues which offer a unique atmosphere, promote creativity and leave a lasting impression – from minimalist bare-brick studios to opulent art galleries. Comfort is also crucial for ideas to flow, so a more casual style – swapping formal chairs for settees and beanbags – can be the way to go.

To discuss how new trends could shape your next event, email Toolshed Communications today.