As any event planner knows, the only constant in business is change. We’re still figuring out how to best proceed after the aftermath of 2020, and this new year is no exception to the rule. 

As the millennial generation continues to move up in the workforce, Gen-Zers are taking their place. Combined, they are changing the landscape of business, especially for 2021. Currently, millennials in the United States comprise 72 million people and Gen-Zers make up 166 million, each with hundreds of billions of dollars of purchasing power. When members of either of these generations attend an event, be it in-person or virtually, they each have different expectations than their parents did. If your target audience is younger than 40 years old, or even younger than 26, keep reading to find out how to inspire and engage them through any type of event. 

1. New Technology

You probably saw this one coming from a mile away. Millennials and Gen Z are the generations of snapchat geotags and Instagram hashtags, not the generation of “sign up for our email newsletter”. These young people crave innovation and creative use of technology, so make sure you’re putting in the effort to deliver. Virtual meetings and in-person gatherings should think about technology in an innovative way, and it should not just occur during a presentation. Create hype surrounding your event by posting sneak peaks on social media platforms, and allow your audience to reminisce about their experience with recaps and videos online after the event.

1. Collaboration

Please sit down, because this next sentence is going to shock you. Millennials and Gen-Zers prefer interpersonal collaboration techniques more than any other method, including technology. In business, both generations see collaboration as extremely important or even vital to success. Neither want to be audience members of a lecture. They seek to be participants in an experience. Get creative with how you bring your audience into your presentation, especially if they’re watching from home. Ensure that their participation adds value and contributes substance.

1. Innovation

A one-size-fits-all event is not likely to inspire and engage audiences under 40 with varying experiences and interests. For a larger audience (especially on a digital platform), a “choose your own track” option is likely to be a much more positive and individualized experience. If you are not sure what your audience’s interests are, simply ask them! A pre-survey is a great way to find out what your audience wants while you plan your event. If you plan to host a similar event in the future, audience feedback is one of your most valuable tools. Encourage your audience to submit online feedback right at the end of your presentation or event, so you can plan your next virtual or in-person gathering with the help of their positive impressions and constructive criticism.

1. High Energy

No one likes a boring presentation, and this is especially true for the two generations that grew up with constant sensory stimulation. Those who identify as Generation Z or as a Millennial are likely to tune out a speaker standing in between a podium and a PowerPoint Presentation, or even worse, reading off the same PowerPoint screen they’re looking at from home. Don’t stare at your notes or read off a screen — be conversational and engaging! Ask members of your audience questions, and allow them to ask you questions in return! Even if your event is virtual, allow audiences to engage in the chat box, in breakout rooms, or in a live Q&A. Invite other speakers or panelists to join you and contribute their expertise to your presentation.

1. Consistency is Key

These two generations are naturally exploratory, so make sure you practice what you preach. If your presentation includes the importance of reducing your business’s energy costs and minimizing its carbon footprint, they’ll do their research and see if your values find their way into your business practices. Are you speaking about diversity and inclusion in a presentation but not following through in your hiring practices or social media posts? Highlight your company’s mission and stick to it. Intentionality is key when engaging, inspiring, and earning the trust of these audiences. To avoid any embarrassing inconsistencies, make sure to include Millennials and Gen-Zers on your team throughout the planning process and encourage them to bring any irregularities to your attention. 

The best way to plan a business event that will appeal to any generation is with the help of an experienced event-planning expert. The team at Wizard Studios will ensure that your event is perfect for your audience’s generation. Contact us today to get started!