Event Professionals Face Burnout Amidst the Rise of Remote Work Culture

Thursday, November 23, 2023

According to the most recent survey from IBTM World’s The Culture Creators Report 2023, event professionals are under more pressure in the quickly changing world of remote work. The information emphasizes that, in today’s remote work environment, 87% of event professionals think that events are more important than ever.

With five times as many people working remotely as before the pandemic, 25% of full-time jobs are now completed from home, up from 5% in 2019. Because of this significant shift in just three years, 79% of event professionals say that their jobs are now more stressful than they were prior to the pandemic.

“Events are back with a bang post-pandemic,” says Nick Nagle of IBTM World, “but we’re now experiencing a different epidemic – burnout.” The industry, which is currently ranked as the third most stressful job in the world, is facing increased responsibilities, particularly in technology, data, and digital capabilities.

Despite increased workload and responsibilities, 90% of event professionals report no change in their compensation packages, raising concerns about potential recruitment and retention issues. Two-thirds of professionals believe that companies recognize the significance of events but fail to recognize the people who make them happen.

Jessica Charles, Forbes’ Vice President of Programming and Events, is concerned about the industry’s potential loss of talent due to the demanding nature of the job. This raises concerns about the industry’s future at a time when face-to-face interactions are more important than ever.

In response to these challenges, IBTM has incorporated a ‘ReFuel’ zone into their 2023 event, providing attendees with a space to relax and recharge both physically and mentally. Despite the challenges, nearly two-thirds (64%) of event professionals would recommend the industry to friends and family, demonstrating their enthusiasm and commitment.

As events continue to be important in building relationships, improving team performance, and boosting morale, event planners face the challenge of incentivizing delegates to leave their home offices, especially given rising travel and lodging costs. The industry’s resilience and dedication highlight the importance of recognizing and supporting event professionals in these trying times.

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