How Communication Is Playing a Key Role In the Events Industry Amidst COVID-19

September 2, 2020

COVID-19 has made a devastating impact on all the aspects of our lives, but it is also prompting an outpouring of creativity in the events industry. The way we communicate and interact with colleagues, professionals and members of the public in trade shows is, in fact, playing a more and more relevant role. It’s key to streamline the way we present ourselves to others, making sure that without even interacting with them, they are already aware of where we are standing. This is why the launch of the new social bands in the industry has been received with success.

Social brands was created as an affordable and easy-to-understand system that is based on the red, yellow and green-light color system, with red indicating “no contact,” yellow “elbows only” and green “high-fives and handshakes OK.” That gives the opportunity to whoever wears them to simply state their position without the need of having awkward conversations.

Communication is also extremely important in the networking process that has inevitably moved from a handshake over a coffee at lunch to a new digital era where you can succeed in creating new significant connections by using your laptop and attending webinars or conducting Zoom calls.

Research has already shown how this new process is considered easier to adopt, especially for introverts — who see in the screen a way to feel less stressed compared to a face-to-face meeting.

Technology and its changes have also revolutionized events and become one of the real protagonists of a new era: One that not only sees the introduction of the latest way of capturing data and of using social media channels to interact with users, but also the creation of physical objects that will make the communication process seamless and more efficient.

Smart tech-solutions such as hygiene-friendly door hooks and hands-free door openers that can be operated by using the forearm are in the pipeline and will be soon presented as the latest solutions that will revolutionize the way we operate. Among them, it’s worth mentioning a combination of wearable tech available in different formats such as a lanyard, a wristband or a hit-vis vest with technology that alerts the wearer when they get too close to another wearer.

Important additions are also the new monitors with thermal imaging cameras positioned at the venue entrance that are able to detect anyone who may be experiencing a higher than normal temperature, and new remotely operated devices that decontaminate both the air and the surfaces in a room, killing 99.9 percent of pathogens and preventing the spread of the virus.

Solutions that are aimed to monitor and protect those in attendance and represent a real game-changer that will not only allow us to deliver events again but also do it in a safe manner for all parties involved, offer a huge contribution to the industry.

 

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MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.    Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.    Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.   The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.    MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.     MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.