Date :
20/12/2012
They are the future of business tourism – the ‘Millennials’, now aged 18 to 30, and conference organisers would do well to take heed of what this generation expects from an event.
Delegates at last month’s Business Tourism Scotland Conference in Glasgow got an intriguing insight into the minds of this generation from Bob Wendover, director of The Centre for Generational Studies.
Bob presented research showing that traditional meeting formats don’t appeal to this generation. Instead, young conference-goers enjoy events that harness technology to provide ‘edutainment’ – a fun and engaging learning experience.
"They are very impatient," he added.
"They prefer meetings, events and conventions that are kept short, with the integration of computer technology.
"This generation expects wi-fi at their meetings. After all, if they can get it for free at a café, shouldn’t it be available at their next convention?
"Also, show them individual impact. If you demonstrate what they’ll earn for attending – job opportunities, scholarships and career coaching – they’ll attend."
The research threw up some surprises. For instance, the use of PowerPoint presentations didn’t alienate young audiences – more than 73 per cent of respondents said they liked PowerPoint.
The conference also heard from events expert Corbin Ball, who offered tips on harnessing the latest technology to attract and engage audiences.