Title: Generational Gaps in the Event Industry: How to Bridge Them Tuesday Thoughts:

As someone who’s been around long enough to see pagers turn into smartphones, I find myself thinking about the different generations working together in the event industry—and sometimes, it feels like a balancing act (or maybe that’s just the caffeine talking!). With so many perspectives, styles, and expectations at play, the real question is: Are we heading toward a seamless collaboration, or do we need to rethink how we work together?

Let’s take a closer look at what each generation brings to the table and how we can bridge these gaps in ways that respect everyone’s contribution.

1. Boomers: The Event Industry Veterans

What they bring: Decades of experience, strategic thinking, and a steady hand in crises. The challenge: Boomers have helped build this industry and seen it evolve from pen-and-paper contracts to digital platforms. They’ve mastered crisis management and know how to keep events on track. The challenge is adapting to new tech and workflows that move faster than ever.

Their wisdom is irreplaceable, and we don’t need to let frustrations with technology create tension. Instead, we can harness their experience to guide the ship, while letting younger generations bring fresh solutions to the table.

2. Gen X: The Bridge Builders

What we bring: A little bit of everything—part old-school hustle, part new-school adaptability. We’ve learned to roll with the punches and keep things moving. The challenge: We’re often the ones bridging the gap between generations. One day we’re showing Boomers how to navigate a new software, the next we’re decoding Gen Z slang. (Is “sus” still a thing? Asking for a friend.)

The challenge is balancing the need for tradition with the push for innovation, all while keeping things on track. But it’s a role we’ve mastered—and one that keeps the industry evolving.

3. Millennials: The Innovators

What they bring: Creativity, a thirst for purpose, and the ability to blend technology with meaningful connections. The challenge: Millennials bring energy and vision, but they also seek flexibility and purpose in their work. Their drive to innovate and improve the way things are done keeps the industry fresh. The challenge is keeping up with their demand for change without losing the essential aspects of what makes events work.

When we embrace their creativity, we open the door to new possibilities and more meaningful experiences for clients and audiences alike.

4. Gen Z: The Digital Natives

What they bring: A natural fluency with technology, social media savviness, and a knack for multitasking like no other. The challenge: Gen Z operates at lightning speed. They're pros at managing digitally, often juggling tasks across platforms while creating social content that engages audiences. But will they get frustrated with slower, more traditional processes?

The key is to create an environment that supports their need for agility and innovation while keeping them engaged with the larger goals of the event industry.

Disclaimer:

This isn’t about one generation being better than another—it’s about understanding how to leverage the unique strengths each group brings to the table. By fostering collaboration and communication, we create a more dynamic, inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

Conclusion: Can We Bridge the Gap?

At the end of the day, I don’t have all the answers. What I do know is that every generation brings something valuable to the table. Boomers’ experience, Gen X’s adaptability, Millennials’ creativity, and Gen Z’s tech mastery all have a place in making the event industry stronger.

We don’t need to reinvent the wheel—maybe just tweak a few things to ensure every generation feels heard, valued, and ready to tackle whatever comes next. I’m here to create an open forum for discussion. How do you see us bridging these generational gaps? Let’s keep the conversation going and share ideas on how we can all work better together.