Q1: What are your thoughts on recent research findings suggesting that the average person spends up to six years of their life attending boring events? Does this statistic surprise you?
I am not familiar with that research, nor with the methodology of it, so I’m not able to elaborate on this without adequate information.
Q2: In your opinion, what are the main factors that render an event or meeting boring, and why does this still happen so frequently?
Every person who gets engaged in any activity, including the event, will first ask: “What’s in it for me?“. If they realise that at a certain event there’s nothing for them, they will be bored. Targeting the right audience is the key.
Q3: What elements are, in your view, crucial for creating engaging meetings? Would you say there is a “formula for success”?
People go to events for three main reasons – to learn something, to get entertained, or to get inspired. If you meet these three elements, the majority of your audience should be satisfied with your event.
Q4: How do you approach event design from the participant’s perspective? What must an organiser do to prevent attendees from mentally checking out within the first ten minutes?
The first ten minutes of most events are usually welcome speeches or the so-called official part of the event. It is highly recommended that those speeches are short and to the point. Also, it helps if people sit during this official part. If you have a standing crowd, they will for sure start to chat.
Q5: What modern practices or tools would you recommend to organisers aiming to create more inclusive and dynamic events?
Possibilities are many. People like to get engaged with interactive screens, short surveys, photo opportunities, gamification of some experience, and incentive activations. It is important that you don’t overdo it and that it is related to your audience.
“I would say that good networking opportunities still hold top place – give your attendees great networking and the event will be a success.”
Q6: How crucial is the role of spontaneous interaction, informal networking, and unexpected moments in crafting a memorable event experience?
Unexpected interactions are always a good idea. They create surprise and opportunities for organic creation of digital content. So, go for it. I would say that good networking opportunities still hold top place – give your attendees great networking and the event will be a success.
Q7: Can you name a best practice case – either one of your own events or one you attended – that was truly extraordinary and remains a testament to the idea that “no more boring meetings” is not just a slogan but a tangible reality?
I would definitely point out the Future Tense conference. During the years, it has become a place to be for the B2B sector. It offers great networking and meets attendees’ desire to be educated, inspired, or entertained.
Q8: In your experience, which event format is the most boring?
It’s not the format that makes the event boring. It’s a wrong target group or a poor programme.
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