Highlights:
- Gen Z is reshaping event expectations
- Traditional formats don’t work anymore
- The goal is action and impact
As Gen Z becomes a dominant force in the workforce, education and consumer culture, organizations are rethinking how meetings, conferences and events are designed.
Born into a digital-first, always-connected world, the cohort brings radically different expectations around engagement, authenticity, technology and purpose.
[Related: Introducing Our New Next Generation Podcasts: Eventualists]
Like I often remind meeting and event planners as a consultant and keynote speaker for 3,000 brands, traditional programming formats (i.e., long lectures, rigid agendas and passive participation) tend to fall flat with younger attendees. As we explain in new book The Shape of the Future, to truly connect with Gen Z audiences, conference designers must rethink both program formats and functions.
Here are 10 practical tips for designing meetings and events that better resonate with young professionals.
1. Design for Interaction, Not Observation
Gen Z expects to participate, not just listen. Build sessions that include live polls, Q&A, breakout discussions, collaborative exercises or audience-generated content. Hands-on interaction keeps attention high and reinforces that every voice matters.
[Related: 10 Ways to Hyper-Personalize and Customize Events]
2. Keep Sessions Short and Modular
Long, uninterrupted presentations can quickly lose Gen Z’s attention. Break content into shorter segments with clear takeaways. Think in modules of 20 to 30 minutes max, followed by discussion, activity or a transition to a new format.
3. Make Technology Seamless and Purposeful
Gen Z is tech-savvy, but they dislike clunky tools. Use event apps, chat features, QR codes and digital collaboration platforms… but only when they add value. Technology should enhance attendee connection, not distract from it.
4. Prioritize Authenticity Over Perfection
Highly polished, scripted presentations can feel inauthentic. Gen Z responds better to speakers who are honest, relatable and human. Encourage keynote and breakout presenters to share real stories, lessons learned and even failures rather than overly curated success narratives.
[Related: 10 Ways to Maximize Your Event’s ROI]
5. Build in Social and Networking Moments
Connection is a core driver of attendance for Gen Z. Design programs to incorporate a wealth of informal networking opportunities, peer meetups and social experiences, both in-person and virtual. Icebreakers, small-group discussions and shared activities help build community quickly.
6. Align Content with Purpose and Impact
Gen Z is purpose-driven and wants to know why something matters. Frame sessions around real-world impact, social responsibility, innovation and change. Show how ideas connect to broader outcomes beyond profit or performance.
7. Embrace Visual and Multimedia Storytelling
Text-heavy slides are a turn-off for younger audiences. Use visuals, video, animation, live demos and storytelling techniques to convey ideas. Gen Z processes information visually and emotionally, not just logically.
8. Create Safe Spaces for Expression
Gen Z values inclusion, psychological safety and open dialogue. Design environments where participants feel comfortable sharing ideas, asking questions and expressing different perspectives without fear of judgment.
9. Offer Choice and Personalization
Avoid one-size-fits-all agendas. Provide multiple session tracks, breakout options or on-demand content so attendees can customize their experience. Giving Gen Z more control of their experience increases engagement and satisfaction.
10. End With Action, Not Just Inspiration
Young professionals want to quickly apply what they learn. Close events with clear next steps, e.g., challenges, resources, calls to action, or opportunities to continue the conversation. Momentum matters more than motivation alone.
Designing meetings and events to better connect with Gen Z is not about trends or gimmicks… it’s about respect for their time, values, intelligence and desire to make a difference.
By focusing on the above areas, organizations can create experiences that don’t just better engage cohort members, but also empower them.
When done right, Gen Z–focused event design can lead to more audience enthusiasm, stronger participation, and outcomes that last well past the closing session.
