The Changing Faces of Corporate Meetings

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In a world of tightly scripted agendas and back-to-back keynote speeches, many participants are craving something more engaging—something more human. For many meeting planners, the real challenge today is creating space for genuine connection and meaningful knowledge-sharing.

That’s where the “unconference” comes in.

What Is an Unconference?

An unconference is a participant-driven event format where the attendees shape the agenda. Rather than following a prearranged lineup of speakers, the meeting begins with a blank schedule—and ends with vibrant, highly relevant discussions led by the participants themselves.

This format prioritizes collaboration over lectures and authentic conversations over scripted presentations. The unconference format originated in the tech sector in the early 2000s, where a new kind of gathering—one built on peer-to-peer learning, curiosity, and shared experience—took root.

How Unconferences Work

  • No fixed agenda: The event starts with a blank slate where attendees suggest discussion topics.

  • Everyone participates: Whether leading a session or contributing ideas, every voice matters.

  • Move freely: In the case of concurrent sessions, attendees are free to leave sessions that aren’t serving them and find ones that are.

  • Flexible formats: Sessions can be roundtables, debates, workshops, or show-and-tells—whatever sparks the best conversation.

Why Meeting Planners Are Taking Notice

For organizations looking to foster deeper engagement and higher-value networking, the unconference format is a game-changer. Surveys show that nearly all attendees value networking and/or connecting with new people over a conventional conference format.

From internal innovation days to customer summits, this format allows attendees to focus on the issues that matter most to them. It also breaks down silos and encourages real-time problem-solving, which is why companies across tech, finance, professional services, and academia are integrating unconference elements into their meetings.

More Value for Sponsors, Too

The unconference model also redefines the role of sponsors. Instead of being passive exhibitors, sponsors can actively participate—leading sessions, hosting discussions, or sharing insights—creating more meaningful engagement with attendees.

From Passive Audiences to Active Stakeholders

Unconferences aren’t just about changing event formats—they’re about shifting mindsets. They turn attendees into collaborators. They make events more agile, inclusive, and memorable.

For forward-thinking corporate meeting professionals, embracing the unconference isn’t just an option—it’s an opportunity.

As corporate gatherings shift from information delivery to emotional resonance, unconferences are more than a passing trend—they’re a tectonic shift. The future favors those willing to trade stage time for shared time. 

To organize a game-changing format for your next group meeting, let our professional planners set up an unconference for your attendees and watch the creativity blossom.