Exhibition World (old) Issue 5 | Page 66

Recruitment

Top talent will triumph in 2023

Trevor Foley says a new exhibition modus operandi will likely involve fewer resources and require smarter delivery
was asked , for this UFI

I

Annual Conference issue of Exhibition World , to reflect on what the event market might look like in 2023 .
I ’ ve been in this industry long enough to know that whatever the extent of the current economic downturn , exhibitions and conferences will continue to run and exhibitors / sponsors / visitors / delegates will continue to attend . Therefore , the mechanics of sales , marketing and operations processes will continue .
This is equally true of consumer show marketplaces , even if things are scaled back . There is plenty of evidence that consumers will continue with day-to-day events / experiences in order to cheer themselves up , instead sacrificing the fortnight away on holiday . Shorter breaks such as festivals , concerts , consumer events and the like will still attract audiences even if in smaller numbers .
So , in an environment where margins will be squeezed , it will likely require a modus operandi with fewer resources and a smarter delivery of value for that trade or consumer experience .
This means that your team must be talented and sustainable – people who will stick around when the going gets tough ! There must be a chemistry and personality , culture fit between employees and employers .
Loyalty ( longevity of stay ) is , seemingly , a reducing commodity , particularly with the younger generation . However , the right managers can ensure that staff turnover is minimised by developing and mentoring the people in their teams . Teams need to feel motivated , valued and recognised in what , let ’ s
Above : Trevor Foley
face it , is a tough market to work in .
In short , people need to enjoy their work . An employee market creates choice and delivers the confidence to be able to look for the right environment . I ’ ve said it before and I ’ ll say it again now : there remains plenty of great talent around the globe , at senior manager / director level that can ensure a strength of talent in your business . It ’ s all about the right peg in the right hole .
As an employer , you will have values , brands or something else that is attractive to the right people – you might just need to know where / how to find them . They , in turn , will build the team that you need to keep all the engines firing .
The fittest will survive , and ultimately thrive , by having a talented team that wants to stick around to support your clients through this sticky patch .
Do not mention the ‘ R ’ word ( recession ). We all have to stay positive for the benefit of our teams , our clients / customers and our industry . Surround yourself with motivated , driven and positive people . There are plenty of them out there !
See you in Oman . EW
66 Issue 5 2022 www . exhibitionworld . co . uk