Event professionals need no reminding about the havoc wreaked on conferences and events by the pandemic. In fact, you’d probably rather be allowed to forget about it and throw all your energy in to getting back on track.

But there’s no denying that the past informs the present and the future. And conference platform Conferli’s recent research underlines how pandemic-driven changes are impacting the buying decisions of delegates and visitors.

Events teams are having to pull the stops out to boost sign-ups. Their supercharged efforts include leveraging tactics like flexible cancellation, and partnerships with event destinations to offer travel, hospitality and other incentives.

But a colossal 72% of respondents to the Insiders Perspective Survey continued to cite ongoing health and safety concerns as a key factor. And, an overwhelming 90% remain budget conscious.

On the other hand, guess what’s really floating the boats of delegates in the post-pandemic eventscape? 

·        Sustainable events and venues

·        Shorter events

·        Improved educational content

·        More networking and collaborating opportunities

The above wish-list items are more influential to 2022 delegates than the ease of travelling to a conference destination.

But surprisingly, the number one thing that’s deterring delegates from signing on the dotted line is… You’ll have to read on to find out!