Balancing hotel technology and multi-generational guests
Hotels are getting more tech-savvy, but not all ages are equally fans of contactless check-in and chatbot concierge services. Hospitality technology is everywhere now. AI chatbot concierge… IoT hotel rooms that allow guests to adjust everything from lights to temperature to TVs via a mobile app… Smart sensors that alert housekeeping when a room is unoccupied and ready for cleaning… Digital, contactless check-in… robotic housekeeping and the provision of amenities – there’s no doubt how many hotels are embracing technology to enhance or even, in some cases, replace the human-machine interface at their properties. These technology solutions can save hotels and many guests money, especially Gen Z and Millennials who prefer contactless and digital hotel experiences. However, some people, especially older Generation X and baby boomers, still prefer interacting with humans over chatbots and digital concierges. How can hotels make today's technology work for all generations of guests? Here are five examples of multi-generational hotel technology strategies: Make sure the…
Multi-generational magic: engaging diverse audiences
Listen to audio Creating memorable events starts with knowing how to connect with attendees of all generations. Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z each bring their own unique perspectives, preferences, and expectations. Understanding and respecting these differences is key to creating an event that truly resonates. So let’s explore practical strategies for successfully engaging diverse groups. Know your audience Each event brings together people with very different life experiences. Take the baby boomer generation (born 1946-1964), for example, who tend to value structured programs and enjoy face-to-face social opportunities. Generation X (1965-1980) values flexibility in delivering serious, practical content. Millennials (born 1981-1996) seek authenticity, social awareness, and smooth technology integration in their experiences. Meanwhile, Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012) – the generation that grew up with smartphones – expects advanced digital tools to become the norm. Read more: What does success look like for Gen Z planners? takeout? These are not just age groups, but unique…
What does success look like for Gen Z planners?
Listen to audio How will you adapt your workforce to these 5 facts? fact: According to the World Economic Forum, by 2025, 27% of the global workforce will be made up of Generation Z workers. Similar percentages will be seen in the meetings and events industry. Many young workers may not follow through. Why? Due to value mismatch between outdated leadership, lack of positive culture and many other rules and procedures in the tradition. Does this scare or challenge you? Get ready for a completely different generation, 80% mindset and 20% strategy. Business strategy expert and author Perry Marshall popularized the rule that 80% of the results come from 20% of the effort. This generation will turn this axiom on its head, focusing on outcomes rather than process. They will question your purpose and values, wondering why you asked them to set up their booth the way you did and express what is important to them. If their experience with…
How to Find Gen Z-Friendly Hotels
From lobbies and public spaces to dining and guest rooms, hotels are being renovated to appeal to Gen Z travelers. Here are some Gen Z-friendly hotel trends to watch. Just as meeting and event organizers are adapting their programs to be more attractive to the latest generation of the workforce, hotels are creating environments designed to meet Gen Z’s preferences for social interaction, digital connectivity, unique experiences and affordable accommodations. So, what makes a hotel suitable for Gen Z? Look for versatile public spaces that transition easily from coffee to cocktails (or mocktails), game rooms and playgrounds, digital sign-ups, locally sourced furniture and decor that reflect the community, and water feature backdrops that provide both ambience and sound deadening Noise and high-altitude hangouts such as rooftop bars and unique top-floor lounges. Some feature vintage furniture to create a lived-in feel, while others feature quirky, tech-focused décor. Many bring in natural light and city views through floor-to-ceiling windows and implement colorful,…
RX shares the power of influencer marketing
CHICAGO — Trade show and event marketers are harnessing the power of influencer marketing at their shows. When talking to 2024 trade show director When female followers spoke about their predictions for the future, some cited an increase in influencer marketing, specifically connecting with younger event attendees. The power of influencer marketing is amplified by a new report from RX: The Power of Influence, which focuses on the travel industry but reveals some interesting statistics about influencer marketing and social media for the entire exhibition industry to take note of. Key statistics to highlight According to the Influencer Marketing Center and Viral Nation’s State of Influencer Marketing report, The global influencer marketing industry is expected to be worth $24 billion by the end of 2024. This is a significant increase from $16.4 billion in 2022. Survey Monkey reports that 29% of Gen Z are more likely to purchase from companies with social media presence, and 47% use social media as…
Empowering a new generation of association leaders
Listen to audio How leaders find and support employees The need is real. Meeting planners are needed more than ever. However, finding and retaining qualified employees isn't always easy. The American Hotel & Lodging Association (ALHA) reports that an estimated 67% of hotels are experiencing staffing issues and shortages since the pandemic began, and 68% of planners are new to the meetings industry. The National Council of Nonprofits also noted that 74 percent of nonprofits have job openings. To better understand what this means for the industry and how the association can empower the next generation of future leaders, Smart Meetings spoke with Maisha Hogue, who is the frontline between the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) headquarters and its professional chapters Communicators Network worked with speech-language pathologist and association professional Mariel Solomon, MS, CC-SLP, to explore how associations can attract a younger, more diverse group of potential employees. Click here to watch the full webinar discussion. Defining diversity and…
Canada Calling: Event Planning Paradise
Listen to Audio Economical, convenient and fashionable Are you a stateside event planner looking for a change of scenery? Our neighbor to the north, Canada, offers a wealth of options for event planners looking to entertain and engage their guests. Smart Meetings reached out to Laura Pallotta, regional vice president of sales and distribution at Marriott International in Canada, who provided some insights into the latest relevant travel trends for travel planners looking to create international experiences. Big Conference Love Canada Canada is welcoming back American association clients in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. “We are also seeing an increase in the number of corporate meetings and launches, trade shows and incentive travel. Canada is currently the top destination for incentive travel for U.S. and European buyers,” Pallotta said. Some of the top cities that are popular with international tourists include Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal – what these cities have in common is a cosmopolitan appeal and great convention…
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