HQ #119 / 'The Delegate Experience: The Good, the Bad, and the Hidden Risks'

What defines a successful delegate experience in today’s event landscape? As business events shift from transactional to transformational, HQ #119 explores the emotional, psychological, and logistical layers that turn passive attendees into engaged participants.

 

In our May 2025 edition, we delve into the science behind experience design, featuring behavioural expert Victoria Matey on neurodesign and the power of cognitive psychology to influence delegate behaviour. We spotlight wellness initiatives showcasing new standards in mental health support and inclusive design.

 

From ICCA CEO Senthil Gopinath’s reflections on skills development and community-building, to the Comité Européen des Entreprises Vins unpacking regulatory hurdles for event planners, we look at how associations are rethinking value delivery. Our PCO insight with Kenes Group discusses personalisation strategies that foster stronger member-to-delegate conversion, while CityDNA and IAPCO provide forward-looking perspectives on attendee engagement and technology integration.

 

Destination reports from Prague, Valencia, Salzburg, Zaragoza and New Zealand highlight how cities embed legacy, sustainability, and culture into their visitor strategies. Meanwhile, the EU-funded BEFuture project redefines what a meaningful, inclusive and sustainable event legacy looks like across the continent. Our conversation with Sandy Biback of Meeting Professionals Against Human Trafficking offers a sobering look at the hidden risk of human trafficking in the meetings industry.

 

Whether you're an association leader, event planner or destination marketer, HQ #119 is packed with practical insight and strategic foresight.