Attendees: You Got Them There - Now Keep Them Engaged
July 27, 2016
By Elizabeth Johnson
Meeting and trade show organizers work tirelessly to get attendees to their events, so once they are there, engaging them is extremely important. Keeping exhibitors and sponsors happy with strong traffic on the floor is one reason; but potentially even more important is so that attendees leave with positive feelings about their experience, want to return in the future and become evangelists for the event’s brand.
Event experts weighed in and shared their ideas for keeping attendees focused on the event:
“Events have so many scheduled events, it's often nice to offer a few 30-minute breaks wherein people can simply do work or organically socialize without a formal agenda. As food is provided (this is key, since people generally will go in search of food if it's not provided), people will use that time productively. In my experience, the best networking often comes about from a relaxed atmosphere, as opposed to structured ice breakers or networking sessions.” – Anne Hong Gottschall, CEO of event planning start up, Revelr.
“Timing is critical - many attendees come to meetings sleep deprived. Too often they lose sleep before a meeting just to get prepared or pack and then they often travel, which really sets the stage for sleep loss at the beginning of an event. So it's very important to avoid 7 a.m. breakfast meetings or activities off the bat. When attendees are exhausted, they will be less engaged, irritable, not learn as much and just not enjoy it as much. I urge all event planners to be especially careful with the scheduling of events. If early morning sessions are unavoidable make them the optional, not mandatory; and have time after lunch for people to grab a quick power nap (put some napping pods on site if hotel accommodations are not nearby). There are many ways to make the event "sleep friendly"! Sleep is foundational. It's essential for attendees that are happy, engaged and energized!” - Terry Cralle, sleep clinician, Better Sleep Council.
“Keeping tradeshow/conference attendees engaged throughout the event is a huge part of their overall experience and perception of value. The fear of losing your attentive audience in-between sessions is a big one and we all can only eat so much food! I believe that the best way to keep attendees involved is to make sure your attendees have ‘FUN’ with simple and creative interactions. Create a scavenger hunt around the convention center or hotel (facilities are happy to supply you with ideas) and increase your attendance to educational sessions or exhibitor by making it a stop on the hunt. Institute a competition with Social Media photo contest or tweet with the highest re-tweets. Lastly allow your attendees to truly be kids again by offering a gaming area that includes a coloring station, photo booth, Jenga, Legos, paint and anything that can help them have ‘FUN’.” - Shannon Licygiewicz, CEM, director of sales for the Albany Capital Center.
“Keeping people engaged between sessions is partly about time management—giving people enough time to use the restroom and also grab a bite. Not to mention, carving out time for people to actually talk to prospects in important. Typically, 20 minutes is a good chunk allowing people enough time to find sessions, find a snack, take a break and return. Giving your attendees "hives" to buzz around during breaks will also keep people from wandering off. Worthwhile food, drinks or giveaways are a good way to pique and keep people close.” - Virginia Case, CMO, Strategic Tactical Marketing.
“At our events we create an atmosphere of fun and provide opportunities for our attendees to hang out and get to know one another. At our recent TMS Family Travel Summit in South Walton, Florida, we had a bonfire on the beach so everyone could hang out and relax after a long day of engaging with travel research experts.” - Joanne Vero, president, J. Vero & Associates, Inc.
From relaxed break times and napping pods and gamificationand memorable experiences; intangibles can enhance attendees’ event experience and leave them with the positive feeling that ensure their loyalty to the event’s brand.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.
At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:
Protecting Natural Resources
MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.
Committed to Community
Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.
MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.
Fostering Diversity & Inclusion
To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.
MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.
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