Event Engagement Strategies for Introverts and Extroverts
We all remember Michael Scott from The Office asking Oscar Nunez, his Mexican colleague, if he preferred something less offensive than Mexican. What a disaster! So, to avoid a 'Michael Scott' situation at your event, ask your attendees beforehand about their preferred pronouns and inclinations.
To edge forward with
inclusive event engagement, you can try mapping how attendees at your event would prefer to go forth with participation activities.
What Should Event Engagement Be Like for Introverts?
Don’t overlook personality types before planning
engagement activities! Many attendees will find crowds and conversations stressful. So, try to be exclusive if you want to be inclusive. Plan an ideal pre-event networking session through your event app to break the ice and let introverts mingle. Think about this; the quiet and reserved attendees would not jump in at any chance to grab the mic and shine in the spotlight.
For example, Splashthat's Escape from Virtual series asked attendees to select their favorite sense from the five senses and write it on their name tags. Later, attendees with similar sense preferences paired up and enjoyed intimate networking.
For breakout sessions, you can exclude extroverted activities like roleplaying, dance and singing. Instead, introverted art forms like painting, visualization, meditation and drawing can help introverts outshine. Give them space to work in silos, and don't force introverts to share their output with others at the event.
Pro-tip: It’s not like introverts don't like to be around extrovert
event attendees. As an organizer, you must avoid creating situations that place introverts in the bustle of every activity.
How Does Event Engagement Work for Extroverts?
Most extroverts would like to network in a space where they can open up, lead conversations and make connections on the go. Also, extroverts tend to be more comfortable in settings that promote social stimulation. So, even with a diverse mix of audiences, you can plan big-group interactions for the extroverted fellas!
Since extroverts are easy to spot, you can appoint them as group leaders during social hours or networking to enable business discussions, knowledge exchange and collaborations. Let them act on their natural inclinations to lead conversations and excite the crowd.
For example, you can plan a ‘Success Stories’ session over coffee or cocktails where extroverted event attendees could exchange their personal and professional growth stories and industry best practices to network with the crowd.
Be it offering direct feedback or brainstorming for creativity and innovation, extroverts are sure to thrive in each setting!