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…
During the live broadcast, the guests of “Smart Start” expressed their gratitude!
Listen to audio 2024 Smart Start guests share gratitude stories We have a lot to be grateful for this year at Smart Meetings; one of those things is our newest podcast this year, Start Smart: Great Ideas in Your Planning Toolboxwas born. During the year we went through the process of coming up with an idea and watching it come to fruition; Eming and Sara spent hours in the conference room doodling on whiteboards, planning out the plans from “Meeting of the Minds” to the rebranding initiative of “Smart Start” that we know and love; and most importantly, those precious moments capturing great conversations with our amazing guests. Smart Start hosts Sara (left) and Eming (right) Think of this story as a highlight reel of gratitude from those incredible guests themselves, and as you read, revisit the inspiring conversations they participated in to make sure you’ve filled in every thread of their insights Add to your toolbox or just have…
Event leaders share their gratitude practices
Listen to audio I'm grateful every day that busy hospitality leaders take the time to share their secrets to success with the Smart Meetings community on the What's the One Thing? podcast. I've learned so much this year, from relationships to the power of persistence and what the next generation of event professors need to stay engaged. I asked these event thought leaders about their ways to be grateful during the holidays and throughout the year. Sure enough, they taught me new ways to appreciate the finer things and deliver the gravy of joy. Kate Patay, Vice President of Global Partnerships at Terramar and Chairman of the SEARCH Foundation I am so grateful to have a wonderful husband who supports me in all my endeavors, whether it be work or home remodeling. His love and support means the world to me. I'm grateful to work with such strong, creative people at a company that cares so much about us -…
Beyond Thanksgiving: The Power of Daily Gratitude
Listen to audio In some workplaces, gratitude may feel forced or insincere. You've probably seen those awkward team meetings where everyone scrambles to say something "nice" and it feels more like a chore than a meaningful interaction. It's no wonder some leaders question whether appreciation will affect business success. But gratitude isn’t just about making people feel good, it’s about leadership. Using it intentionally can transform your workplace. Small but consistent acts of appreciation can boost morale, build stronger teams, and improve performance. That's why I created Grategy®, a framework designed to help leaders make gratitude a natural part of their company culture. Let’s talk numbers. Research from the University of Oxford shows that happy employees are 13% more productive. Companies that prioritize recognition are 12 times more likely to have highly engaged teams. More than half of companies that implemented recognition programs saw an increase in employee engagement. Johnson & Johnson saved $250 million over ten years through health…