Last month, 425 people travelled from 13 countries to attend a four-day TED conference in California. A happy occasion for professionals who had been separated for over 18 months – even more so when they learnt that not one subsequent Covid case was reported! So, how can businesses mirror this successful approach to corporate events post-pandemic?

In a recent feature for Quartz, Anne Quito helpfully outlines how organisers managed to pull off this impressive feat. Interestingly, she identifies the strategic selection of the venue as one of the key ingredients of the event’s success.

Organisers opted for a smaller location, which was more convenient for attendees and facilitated the introduction of a range of TV screens, beanbags and outdoor tents. The aim was to ensure natural airflow, digital interaction and collaboration.

In fact, this strategy has been deployed by our clients over the summer in London. For example, we hosted our first hybrid event at Michelin House in Chelsea this July, which saw guests attend both in-person – enjoying the venue’s outdoor areas – or virtually via videoconferencing.

 

Argyll summer event at Michelin House

 

It seems that the key to success post-Covid is working with the right locations – those that have the necessary technology to facilitate our new hybrid habits and those that make attendees feel safe.

As Jay Herratti, executive director of TED, said, “for any organisation, boldly moving forward can actually pay off”, and we tend to agree. Whether professionals want to dial-in from home or enjoy a glass of fizz in the sunshine, there is a format that works for everyone if businesses think outside the box.

 

Garden event space - Argyll Hill Street

 

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