T.S. Eliot wrote this line in 1943, but it aptly applies to our post-pandemic work world.

So many things that were viewed as mundane and routine before the pandemic will be seen with new eyes. In a relative sense, months without in-person interaction have wiped the slate of work-related expectations somewhat clean. There is a renewed excitement for experiences that until the pandemic formed the fabric of our professional and personal lives. In other words, the next few months present a historic opportunity for creating events that fundamentally reset the perception of your company for employees and customers alike.

Nothing captures hearts and minds more quickly and comprehensively than a great event. The good news is that corporate events are back! Leading industry research indicates that 60% of Meeting Planners will hold an in-person event in the second half of 2021.

So much happens at a single event: employees and customers feel validated and valued. Stakeholders become more engaged. A collective destination is created. And the longstanding image and culture of a company can be improved in just a few days. While many people are hesitant to return to their offices after working from home, the majority of Americans are excited to travel again.

For company executives, marketers, and event planners, the message is clear: Your 2021 corporate events are a historic opportunity to deliver a transformative experience. Equally clear is the question: are you planning these events as the watershed opportunities they are or are you taking timeworn approaches that are likely to underwhelm your audiences?

Your audiences will be locked into live speakers like never before. Messages will be heard with fresh and eager ears. Stories will be absorbed deeply by attendees who have not experienced a live speaker in over a year. These are the kinds of opportunities that every company longs for. What a crime it would be to squander the moment!

At Decker, we’re already engaged with some truly aspirational clients that are planning 2021 events. The creativity and attention to detail on narrative development and speaker preparation have been astounding. There are some stellar corporate events coming in 2021 – events that will feel more powerful and polished than ever before.

If you have a kickoff coming up, an annual meeting, a company offsite, a product launch, ask yourself: am I really making the most of this event and the transformational opportunity at hand? If not, give us a call. We’d love to help you out!