Trends in the event industry 2022
The events industry has changed drastically in a short time, leaving many of us wondering what is next. If you’re wondering what the best event trends of 2022 are; you’ve come to the right place.
In this blog, we’re covering everything from event design trends to virtual event trends in 2022. Here are the best event trends to follow if you want to plan your perfect event this year.
1. A rise in Hybrid Events
In-person events will be back in full force. But virtual events won’t go away. Innovations in virtual meeting technology are going to be a huge factor in event planning this year. The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way we do business, and many of these changes will likely be permanent. This is why hybrid events will be one of the biggest event trends post-COVID.
You’ve probably already noticed an increase in hybrid events, and experts predict they aren’t going anywhere. Many people are still more comfortable using technologies such as Zoom and working remotely. This has trickled down into the events industry, and in-person events will be more inclusive of virtual attendees.
Many event planners predict that technology will also evolve to accommodate this shift. Innovations in hybrid event technology will make it easier and more cost-effective for both parties to participate. We can expect to see enhanced digital streaming and opportunities for virtual attendee interaction.
There’s also a shift toward creating content designed specifically for the digital experience. One of the challenges event planners will face in 2022 is delivering the best experience for both virtual and in-person attendees. This means that when the time comes for an in-person event, planners will have to ensure that virtual attendees won’t feel like they’re missing out on the fun. This creates a better experience for them and helps build brand loyalty.
Moreover, hybrid events will allow for better data collection opportunities to help you plan future events. They say that the more data you have, the better – and that old adage is even more relevant in today’s digital world than it has ever been.
Data offers insights into how your audience behaves, what they respond to and how they want to be engaged. And the more data you have, the better you can understand your audience – and therefore tailor your event strategy to best suit their needs.
2. A rise in Micro-Events
With the shift to online events for the past year, we’ve seen a change in event strategy, execution, and attendee expectations.
We’re excited to see where 2022 takes us. As mentioned, the hybrid event model has been quickly gaining traction in recent years and will continue to rise in popularity as a way to engage with a wider audience.
As we’ve all learned throughout the pandemic, virtual interaction is great, but it doesn’t compare to the real thing. But with new variants of COVID, and health concerns still in the minds of event planners, how will they adapt?
Many industry experts are predicting a rise in micro-events. Micro-events are smaller, in-person events, often used as part of a hybrid event strategy to reach more attendees. The benefits of micro-events are that they will be more budget-friendly, and decrease health risks.
With micro-events, planners also have the opportunity to create a more personalised experience for attendees. Whether it’s based on the location, the type of attendee, or other demographic qualities, event planners can offer a perfectly customised experience for a smaller group of attendees.
Moreover, micro-events can be hosted multiple times over the year, helping to close the experience gap which occurs when organisations host one big event annually.
As part of a hybrid strategy, organisers can integrate event content virtually, to help attendees stay connected on an ongoing basis.
3. More Attention on Vaccination Status
With many people now vaccinated, event planners everywhere were hopeful for the idea of a return to live events. However, with new variants spreading rapidly, it is apparent that COVID still presents a challenge to in-person events. According to PCMA, 39% of event planners surveyed plan to require proof of COVID-19 vaccination to attend an event they’re planning.
To increase event safety, it seems that there will be a trend in organisers requiring proof of vaccination at the door or prior to registration for in-person or hybrid events. We may also see more on-site rapid testing at events.
However, rules and regulations change rapidly from country to country, so this is one to keep an eye on, as it may (or may not) be a requirement depending on future developments.
4. Leveraging Tech for Event-Safety
As well as pre-screening for COVID, there is the trend of organisers leveraging technology to minimise contact between guests and security, thus eliminating areas of congestion.
Many tools are proving effective such as thermal imaging cameras at entrance points, to detect body temperature before allowing entry. Organisers are also implementing apps as part of their event strategy. This way, guests can check-in virtually by scanning QR codes, minimising contact with security and eliminating entrance queues.
5. Event Planners will Aim to be more Sustainable
With the news that there are microplastics in the fish we’re eating, we are evermore realising that we all have an impact on the environment. And the events industry is no exception.
The events industry can be considered an offender when it comes to waste. This cultural shift towards sustainability has encouraged many event planners to become active participants in the circular economy.
There are a whole host of benefits to being sustainable as an events organiser. In addition to doing your part for the environment, you’ll also be able to attract more guests and supporters, position your brand as a leader in sustainability, and enjoy a boost in revenue.
Give your Attendees the Perfect Event Experience
As a conscientious events organiser who wants to keep abreast of the upcoming event industry trends, you undoubtedly want to give your attendees the best event experience ever.
Event photography plays a huge part in your event strategy – and if it doesn’t it should! Not only does it give your attendees something to remember, but it is perfect for future content creation and your next event promotion.
Additionally, on the day, you can involve all kinds of event features, such as photo walls and even live-streaming the event through social media channels.
With the right approach and the right people, visual content can transform your event from a good result into a fantastic success.