In 2020, virtual events held on 6Connex rose 1000% with a grand total of 52,000 events occurring on this single platform (Forbes). At the height of the pandemic, it is not surprising that most companies were looking to virtual events as an alternative to in-person events, even in areas where they had not been outright prohibited. However, as the pandemic comes into its second year, virtual-only events are on the decline, and hybrid events are taking their place.
In fact, according to a survey conducted by Bizzabo, approximately 97% of industry professionals expect a continuation of the hybrid event trend moving forward (Bizzabo). Knowing this, it is perhaps no surprise that EventMB found that 71% of event planners intend to continue utilizing a digital strategy in their events even as in-person or live events continue to return (EventMB’s).
For hosts of these events, the concept of a hybrid or omnichannel model may require even more advanced planning, increased coordination, and development to ensure a successful event. Where hosting a large number of individuals at a physical location can be complex in its own right, adding in the potential for satellite locations (often referred to as ‘pods’) and virtual attendees can add to the complexities and coordination required.
Yet these additional options are coming to be expected by many event attendees. Yes the future of all meetings seem to leaning towards being Hybrid event
Wes Berry is available for speaking engagements and as a workshop facilitator. He also consultants with select organizations. As a professional speaker, he has the skills to make your event a success. He is also the Wall Street Journal best-selling author of “Big Things Have Small Beginnings: The Motivation and Mindset That Built a $750 million Business.” In all, he has written twelve books in the business and success genres. And as an entrepreneur, he built an international company that operated in 130 countries. He’s even done a little standup comedy as well as radio.
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