To engage and actively involve Gen Z and Millennials in business meetings and conferences, organizations need to be intentional, flexible. and innovative. Here are some proven approaches:

Let them speak
One way to encourage them to contribute is to invite your younger participants to share their perspectives and ideas. But only if you truly value their input. They’ll know if you’re asking them just for the sake of formality. These digital natives also like using digital tools, so consider including real-time polls, surveys and other tools they can use to give feedback and provide input. And think about giving younger participants the responsibility of leading or co-moderating a panel.

Give them digital
In addition to tools like polls and surveys, Gen Z and Millennials tend to gravitate toward visually engaging content (think video), as well as gamification and tools they can use to be more interactive, rather than asking them to listen passively. Also think about providing a digital or hybrid version of your in-person event to accommodate digital-first preferences and flexibility.

Make it meaningful
A sense of connection to a greater purpose is important to the newest generations to the workforce, so be sure to connect your meeting topics to their potential impact on community and larger social impacts. Include in your organizational updates during the general session how individual and team contributions help move the organization’s mission forward.

Making it inclusive and collaborative
While the words themselves have become divisive, the meaning behind diversity, equity and inclusion are still important, especially to younger generations. Demonstrate that your meeting is inclusive by showcasing diverse perspectives. Also encourage open dialogue, even — or especially — if the opinions expressed challenge the status quo.

Also pair younger professionals with their more senior peers and colleagues in formal and informal mentorship programs. Show that your organization understands they have much to contribute by also including “reverse mentoring” programs when your youngest attendees are paired with senior colleagues to provide their perspectives on challenges and solutions.

Change up your pre- and post-show promotions
Email is great, but why not also communicate on platforms that resonate with young (and not-so-young) professionals, such as TikTok and Instagram. Also, ensure that your presenters keep their language — and their PowerPoint slides — short, sweet and as jargon-free as possible. Visuals, infographics and short videos also resonate with this demographic.