AAXO NEWS

Now is the time for young event professionals to future-proof their skills

If our industry has learned anything from the pandemic, it is that no future is certain, dramatic change can happen overnight, and that those who can adapt the fastest will fare the best in changing times.

For young professionals in the exhibition sector, now is a good time to hone existing skills and develop new ones – particularly in the digital arena.

As many events develop a virtual conference component, demand is now emerging for resources, with both exhibition and digital skills, to assist in planning and executing flawless webinars and virtual trade shows.

The planning, production, and marketing of virtual events is somewhat different from those of real-life events and requires expanded digital and technical skill sets and creativity. Demand for virtual event technologists and technical support teams will likely emerge, in which companies and event planners need specialised staff to source or manage the technology for virtual events.

Specialised virtual event production skills, and lighting and audio skills, will likely also become important as virtual event planners up their game and seek more polished and professional online events. Social media marketing skills are also increasingly important for both live and virtual events promotion. For MCs and moderators, now is a good time to polish your virtual performance, as online events will demand a different approach to face-to-face events.

Finally, now is a good time to make an extra effort to look after your key USP – yourself. Anxiety and uncertainty could undermine your confidence and your health. Engage in activities that are good for your soul, eat well, keep fit, and try to remain positive. You will need all your skills, energy and positivity as we build our industry back up and get growth back on track.

By Suzette Scheepers, chief executive officer of Messe Meunchen South Africa and board member of the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO)