Theme and Topic Selection Approaches
Selecting topics and themes for events involves careful consideration of the audience needs and interests, the goals of the event, and ongoing industry trends. Incorporating innovative concepts enhances the conference's appeal.
1. Understand the Audience
Identify the target industry :Specify the industry to be targeted and determine the appropriate attendees, including professionals, executives, clients or potential clients, other key stakeholders.
Identify the target audience: Consider the age, gender, socioeconomic status of the targeted audience. For instance, different age cohorts may have diverse priorities and interests.
Determine the audience interests and needs: Segment the target audience based on their roles and understand what topics are most relevant and interesting to each group. Conduct surveys, focus groups and interviews with the target audience to gather direct feedback and insights.
2. Define the Conference Goals
Business development: increase brand awareness, establish thought leadership, introduce new products, generate leads and new clients.
Foster innovation: stimulate idea generation and encourage an environment of innovation.
Market research: update understanding of clients and competition by obtaining feedback.
Networking and community building: creating positive experiences with entertainment & enjoyment.
Professional development: advance skills and encourage career growth opportunities.
3. Research Industry Trends
Identify latest issues: Follow the current trends and challenges in the industry in the press, trade publications and academic journals. Consult with industry experts to gain deeper perspectives.
Analyse competitive events: Review similar conferences to understand what topics are included. Assess which topics are most successful. Identify gaps and opportunities to address unmet needs and differentiate the conference.
4. Brainstorm Potential Topics
Involve stakeholders: Engage your team, industry partners, and potential attendees in brainstorming sessions to gather diverse perspectives.
Create a long list: Compile a comprehensive list of potential topics, including all suggestions without filtering.
5. Evaluate and Prioritise Topics
Align Topics with Goals: Ensure that the selected topics support the conference objectives and desired outcomes.
Relevance: Prioritise topics that resonate with audience needs and reflect industry trends.
Create Overarching Themes: Group related topics under broad themes to provide structure and coherence to the conference agenda.
6. Finalise the Agenda:
Example Topics
While some overall topics are well established, selecting dynamic speakers with fresh insights will make them more impactful and relevant.
Innovation and Technology: AI digital transformation.
Leadership and Management: Future of work, strategies for effective leadership, negotiation skills, managing innovation, time management techniques, managing challenges of remote work.
Marketing and Sales: trends in digital marketing trends, enhancing customer experience with AI.
Finance and Investments: Economic trends and forecasts effective investment strategies. Incorporating AI into investment analysis and risk management
Wellness: achieving work life balance, stress management techniques, preventing burnout, transitioning into retirement.