Perfecting in-person meeting agendas may require a break with tradition. Here are 5 ways a thoughtfully reimagined agenda will secure more registrations and deliver more value to discerning attendees.
When it comes to a successful agenda strategy for in-person events, it is time to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. In reality, only some agenda-planning standards are still relevant in 2023.
- Shorter Keynotes: With audience fatigue in mind, limiting keynote sessions to 45 minutes (or less) helps maintain attention and engagement. Shorter, more focused presentations are recommended to ensure impact and interaction.
- Aspirational Content: While content should still address attendees’ professional needs, integrating aspirational content, such as success stories or challenges overcome, adds depth and provides a break from purely job-focused material, enriching the overall experience.
- Flexible Agendas: Inspired by immersive experiences like Meow Wolf, planners are encouraged to create more fluid, individualized experiences, allowing attendees to explore content in their own way rather than following a rigid agenda. This approach fosters a more personalized, transformative event.
- Extended Transition Times: For smaller, more intimate meetings, adjusting transition times and breaks (by 5-10%) can reduce the transactional feel and improve attendee flow, especially when experts are available for informal conversations during breaks.
- Enhanced Networking: Networking opportunities should be proactively facilitated by staff to make introductions and ensure meaningful connections. A more structured approach to networking, even during breaks, helps attendees build valuable relationships.
These strategies aim to create a more engaging, flexible, and enriching event experience for attendees, moving away from traditional, rigid agendas.