NEWS

5 rules for successful multi-generational events

Conferences that drive tactics to bring together people from different age groups and professional backgrounds allows for a rich knowledge exchange, spark innovation and ensure the future of industries by blending a wide range of experience with fresh perspectives.

Expectations and engagement styles differ significantly from generation to generation. Embracing the differences in preferred methods of communication, content delivery and social networking will foster better understanding and collaboration across age-groups. A truly impactful conference doesn’t just bring people together — it bridges generations, creating a dynamic space where experience meets evolution.

By strategically implementing multi-generational tactics in event planning, organisers can create inclusive environments that appeal to both early career professionals and established leaders, ensuring a valuable experience that optimises personal and professional growth for all participants.

Understanding the Multi-Generational Audience

Firstly, let’s look at the current generations and their preferences when it comes to events:

Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964): Prefer structured networking, in-person interactions, and traditional formats such as keynotes and panels.
Generation X (born 1965-1980): Value efficiency, direct communication, and practical takeaways.
Millennials (born 1981-1996): Favour interactive sessions, social media integration, and digital experiences.
Generation Z (born 1997-2012): Expect highly visual content, gamification, and tech-forward experiences.
Generation Alpha (born 2013+): While still emerging in the professional world Alphas will make up the largest generation ever, will be the most globally connected and formally educated. They will shape future event dynamics with a technology-first mindset.

Here are five strategies for multi-generational event success:

1. Offer a mix of content formats

Different generations absorb information in different ways. To accommodate everyone, incorporate live keynote speeches and panel discussions (favoured by Boomers and Gen X attendees) along with collaboration-focused interactive workshops and breakout sessions that millennials prefer. Bite-sized content such as short videos, podcasts and infographics for Gen Z attendees who prefer quick and engaging formats. The 22nd Triennial Meeting of the International Association of Forensic Sciences (IAFS) 2023 was notable in achieving this, helping carve out a legacy that is continuing to build today.

2. Leverage technology thoughtfully

Technology is a key differentiator in engaging a diverse audience. Consider:

Providing event apps with schedules, networking opportunities, and live Q&A for all attendees – like Pathology Update provided in their 2025 conference.
Incorporating virtual and hybrid options to cater to remote participants.
Using AI-powered matchmaking for networking, appealing to Gen X and Millennials looking for efficiency.
Adding gamification elements to engage younger audiences like Gen Z.

3. Create diverse networking opportunities

Reconnecting with industry colleagues and forging new connections are priorities for many attendees, but their preferred environments vary:

Host structured networking events for Baby Boomers and Gen X who value face-to-face interactions.
Provide casual settings and social mixers for Millennials who enjoy informal conversations – such as a private marketplace at Darwin’s famous Mindil Beach Markets for relaxed networking as part of Australian Society of Anaesthetists 2024 National Scientific Congress.
Co-create on TikToks, IG reels, or YouTube videos with Gen Z emerging leaders and speakers. Or invite them to guest blog or be featured in podcasts to expand your reach to younger professionals who prefer virtual connections over engaging in person.

4. Ensure content is accessible and inclusive

Inclusivity goes beyond generational preferences — it ensures that all attendees can fully participate. This could mean offering closed captions and translations for sessions, like organisers provided for ICOMOS General Assembly and Scientific Symposium 2023, which was translated live into French and Spanish. It also means using clear, jargon-free language to make content accessible to all experience levels or even varying session lengths to cater to different attention spans – see how we helped organisers for AGOSCI 2022 achieve this. Another barrier to early career professionals is the registration cost – consider mitigating this like the Ottawa Conference 2024 successfully did, alongside targeted marketing.

5. Facilitate cross-generational learning

Encouraging collaboration between generations can lead to rich, innovative discussions. Consider organising reverse mentoring programs, generational panel discussions and ‘wisdom & innovation’ roundtables where younger professionals share knowledge on digital trends, tech, and emerging market behaviours, while senior professionals provide industry history and leadership insights. The key is intentionality—fostering environments where knowledge flows both ways, making all generations feel valued and heard. These experiences can encourage further conversations and cross-generational collaboration to continue well beyond the conference.

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years. We acknowledge Māori as Tangata Whenua and Treaty of Waitangi partners in Aotearoa New Zealand.

© Arinex Pty Ltd All Rights reserved. ABN 28000386676