Embracing Change for an Elevated Event Experience

With the return of in-person events, the task of choosing which one to attend has become yet another item on our already busy to-do lists. But what if we could make this decision easier? 

Let's consider two scenarios:

Scenario 1: The Usual Suspects

You receive an invitation to an event that will be populated by the same industry professionals you encounter at every gathering. The speakers are familiar faces, and the location is a place you've been countless times before. Not only that, but the agenda is stacked, with no time to do anything else but put a dent in your seat.

Scenario 2: A Fresh Perspective

Now, contrast that with an invitation to an event where you'll still mingle with industry peers, but this time, you'll hear from speakers from entirely different industries – ones you've never considered as relevant to your own. The event is in a unique, non-traditional venue that you've never visited. Here, the agenda is intentionally designed to allow for deeper, more intimate conversations, without the overwhelming rush that leaves you gasping for breath, let alone time to connect with others.

Which event would you choose? It's likely that you're leaning toward the second scenario. And that's precisely the point.

When planning your next event, whether it's a networking event, educational seminar, annual meeting, or conference, it may be time to re-evaluate every aspect. While change may bring some resistance, the potential outcomes make it entirely worthwhile.

Broadening Horizons

Inviting speakers from diverse backgrounds and industries - different from the industry in which you operate - can offer fresh insights and perspectives that enrich your attendees' knowledge and inspire innovation within your field. There’s a reason why there are so many articles on the internet about what the healthcare sytem can learn from the field of engineering.

Unconventional Venues

Choosing a non-traditional venue can inject a sense of excitement into the event. It's like adding a dash of spice to a familiar recipe – it transforms the entire flavor. Attendees will appreciate the effort to create a unique and memorable experience (the same way someone will appreciate that dish going from bland to boom!). Unconventional settings are a refreshing departure from the norm. They pique curiosity and can help spark conversations and connections that simply wouldn't happen in a conventional setting, ultimately leaving a lasting positive impression.

Intentional Networking

An agenda that prioritizes meaningful interactions over jam-packed schedules allows attendees to connect more deeply, fostering relationships that extend beyond the event. How many times have you attended an event only to leave feeling mentally and physically drained, wondering what real value you extracted from the experience? It's a scenario many of us can relate to. The rush from one session to another, the frenetic networking, and the constant race against the clock can leave little room for reflection, connection, or simply catching one's breath. Create events that allow attendees to decompress, process what they've learned, and digest the information exchanged. These moments are often when the most profound connections are forged.

By breaking away from the usual, you rekindle attendees' enthusiasm and curiosity, making them more receptive to the content and experiences you provide. You put your event at the top of their list because they know it’s going to be different from the other events they’ve attended in the past which puts your organization and brand top of mind. As mentioned before, there may be resistance to change, but remember that the outcomes can be transformative. Shake up your next event, challenge the status quo, and watch as your attendees embrace the opportunity for growth, connection, and fresh perspectives. The effort will be worth every moment, leaving everyone excited about what the future holds for your organization's gatherings.