Professionals from across the business meetings and events sector have reported work-life balance expectations are the leading factor impacting staff retention, according to the latest survey by the Meetings Industry Association (MIA).
The June research focused on one of the industries most urgent priorities: people. Over half (53%) of respondents reported an increase in burnout or stress-related issues over the last year. High workloads and tight deadlines were cited as primary causes.
Many organisations are still not fully integrating wellbeing into their culture, despite a growing awareness. Fewer than half of respondents (42%) stated that wellbeing is fully incorporated into their workplace culture. And only 45% provide training to managers on mental health wellness in the workplace.
Opinions are divided on the readiness of the sector for the workforce in the future. Over a quarter (28%) of people believe that the industry does not adapt well to the changing workforce needs. Budget constraints are cited by 8 out 10 as being a major barrier. In addition, 42% said that their organisation does not currently invest in re-skilling, upskilling, or training staff. Over a quarter of companies (28%) do not have a succession plan for key positions. These limitations are reflected in confidence levels, with less than half (47%) believing their organisation is well-positioned to stay competitive in the next 3–5 years.
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In a positive development, those who are focused on futureproofing the workforce actively develop early-career employees for future leadership roles. 88% of respondents cite in-house training as their most common method.
The generational makeup of the industry is also changing. Although millennials are still the majority of the workforce, Gen Z (ages 13 to 28) has a rapidly increasing number, bringing with it new expectations in terms of flexibility, transparency, and wellbeing. These generational gaps are not without challenges. In fact, more than half of employees (55%) have reported workplace conflict as a result.
Respondents cited a lack in communication and industry knowledge among candidates as a concern for recruitment. This was cited respectively by 50% and 47%. As a result, 71% are being proactive in their job descriptions and interviewing, and a 3rd now offers enhanced training and onboarding. They understand that investing time and resources during the early stages of recruitment strengthens engagement and retention.
Over four-fifths of respondents (83%) feel confident that their organization will be able to retain employees over the next year. The most desired initiative to help achieve this is flexibility (52%), followed closely by management training (46%), regular check-ins (35%). The industry has responded: 59% now offer flexible work as a standard policy, demonstrating that low-cost and easy-to implement policies can be effective in supporting employee well-being.
Chief Executive of MIA Shonali Devereaux, said: “People are the foundation of our industry, which is why – for the first time – our latest insight’s report is dedicated entirely to our people. It’s encouraging that many companies are taking steps to invest in and support their teams.
“The feedback highlights the opportunities and gaps. Understanding how to recruit, retain, and nurture the best talent, despite changing expectations, wellbeing requirements, and ongoing recruitment challenges, is essential. Our industry will have a sustainable, successful future. “Our research will directly lead to action. The MIA will provide guidance, training, and support to its members with respect for our people.”
The MIA Meets Session on the MIA Stand (D51), hosted by the MIA Chief Executive, Shonali Delvereaux, on 25th June at 2pm, will provide more details on the results of the MIA Insights People survey.
