One in eight attendees at your events and conferences is part of Generation Z. This figure is expected to rise exponentially in the coming years as more members of Gen Z enter the workforce.
Gen Z has emerged as a unique demographic with distinct preferences and expectations, especially when it comes to events and conferences. Born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, Gen Zers have grown up in a world where digital connectivity is not just a luxury but a fundamental aspect of their daily lives. This deep-rooted digital nativism sets them apart from previous generations and significantly influences their expectations for events and conferences. As event organizers, understanding these expectations is crucial to crafting experiences that resonate with Gen Z attendees. Here’s how you can align your events with the preferences of this digitally savvy generation.
Embrace Technology Wholeheartedly
For Gen Z, technology is not just a tool but an extension of their identity. This generation expects events to incorporate the latest technological innovations, from augmented and virtual reality experiences to app-based interactions and social media integration. Providing platforms where attendees can engage with content, speakers, and each other in real-time, both online and offline, can enhance their experience and keep them engaged.
Foster Genuine Connection
Despite their digital nativism, Gen Z values authentic connections and interactions. They prefer events that facilitate genuine networking opportunities and foster a sense of community. Creating smaller, interactive sessions or workshops within larger events, offering spaces for informal gatherings, and encouraging participatory experiences can meet Gen Z’s craving for real human connection.
Prioritize Sustainability
Gen Z is deeply concerned about environmental issues and expects the events they attend to reflect a commitment to sustainability. This includes everything from reducing waste and using eco-friendly materials to incorporating sustainability into the event's theme and content. Demonstrating a genuine commitment to the environment can significantly increase an event's appeal to Gen Z attendees.
Offer Personalized Experiences
Accustomed to personalized content and recommendations in their digital lives, Gen Z expects events to cater to their individual interests and needs. This can be achieved through customizable agendas, personalized communication, and using data analytics to understand and predict attendee preferences. Offering choices and allowing attendees to tailor their event experience can lead to higher engagement and satisfaction.
Hint: Gen Z is a fan of gaming, Anime, E-sports, personal wellness....
Value Diversity and Inclusion
Gen Z is the most diverse generation to date and expects events to reflect this diversity in speakers, content, and participants. Events should champion inclusivity, providing a platform for a wide range of voices and perspectives. This includes ensuring accessibility for all attendees and creating a safe, welcoming environment for people from all backgrounds.
Engage Through Content
Content is king for Gen Z, but not just any content. They look for engaging, interactive, and multimedia content that can be consumed in various formats. Incorporating live performances, interactive panels, and creative workshops into your event can captivate Gen Z’s attention. Furthermore, content should be made available for on-demand consumption, catering to their preference for accessing information at their convenience.
Gen Z's expectations for events and conferences reflect their unique upbringing in a digital-first world, emphasizing the importance of technology, authenticity, sustainability, personalization, diversity, and engaging content. As event organizers, adapting to these preferences is not just about keeping pace with technological advancements but about understanding the shifting cultural and social landscapes that shape this generation's experiences. By doing so, you can create events that not only meet Gen Z's expectations but also offer them valuable and memorable experiences that resonate on a deeper level.