EVENT TRENDS FOR 2020
As 2019 draws to an end here are 3 predictions for the future of events in 2020 and beyond.
Trend 1: Bridging The Gap Between Virtual And In-Person Events
The future of business events will bridge the gap between digital and in-person live events with virtual conferences integrating into real-life events.
Through the use of VR and AI, it will be possible for people across the globe to virtually participate in live events/conferences.
Virtual live conferences have been successfully used across multiple industry sectors to run a global virtual “in-person” events for the last half a decade. It is my belief that we will see people globally join in local live events through VR live streaming and AI technologies.
In September 2019, Apple’s iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and Pro Max launch event kept 1.8 million people glued to their screens as the event was live-streamed for the first time.
Trend 2: Personalisation And 2-Way Conversation
The other trend I believe will continue to grow is the personalisation of content for the individuals. Making large-scale events individualised. Enabling every participant to gain exactly what he or she needs.
While opening the gates for a two-way conversation where individual participants can influence the content/dialogue by asking questions, posting content and communicating with each other as well as the event organisers.
With the widespread use of technology, we are already seeing the integration of event mobile apps that engage pre, during and post-event while collecting data. Smart screens allow direct streaming to screen empowering audience participation through comments, posting photos and sharing experiences.
Personalisation provides access for event marketers and event organisers to collect relevant data from their participants enabling greater connection and understanding of their audience. This leads to a better ROI not just at the event but also for the organisation.
Trend 3: Events For Good
With a greater focus on social responsibility, I believe more events will have an added positive impact on the world. It may be through supporting charities, creating sustainable/green events, or other philanthropic efforts that give back.
More and more we are seeing event marketers and event organisers selling tickets with an optional or incorporated “give back” element to support a charity or a cause. Organisations such as Humanitix - https://www.humanitix.com/au/ have integrated social giving into every ticket that is sold on their platform.
New sustainable venues are opening up with seasonal menus, renewable energy systems, wastewater policies, and a sustainable approach to events.
Social enterprise B1G1 - https://www.b1g1.com/ have done research into selling a “ticket for good”, a ticket where each sale contributes to a worthy cause and have found an increase in attracting like-minded individuals to events plus a higher in-room conversion rate.
Showing that events for good are growing trend with a notable increase in engagement and conversion.
If you are looking for an event marketing expert to help make your next event a success then get in touch. As always, it is a pleasure to share your Eventologist journey. Please comment, like, and to share this article with fellow business owners who are looking to market their business by running successful events or come along to our next How To Market Your Business With Events workshop.
