Event professionals have revealed their biggest pet peeves when it comes to industry trade shows in new research by the organisers of AIME.

The study, conducted by Talk2 Media & Events in the lead up to AIME 2020, surveyed more than 200 buyers and exhibitors from across the Asia Pacific region and beyond.

The survey revealed 93 per cent of respondents find human interaction and connections important across business events, with 48 per cent declaring them critical.

Trade show pet peeves

Respondents also shared their biggest pet peeves when attending an industry trade show, stating the major barriers to business are lack of quality buyers and exhibitors (33 per cent), followed by insufficient networking opportunities (24 per cent) and poorly organised appointments and meetings (20 per cent).

Lack of educational opportunities (13 per cent) and poor timing of the industry event (10 per cent) were also highlighted as barriers.

More than 60 per cent of buyers and exhibitors surveyed said face-to-face connections are still the most effective way to conduct business, followed by email (32 per cent) and phone call (4 per cent).

Best time to do business

When asked about the rise of digital in the industry, the two biggest concerns were losing touch with human relationships (48 per cent) and online communities replacing physical communities (26 per cent).

Respondents were also asked about the best time to place business. Thirty-seven per cent of buyers and exhibitors stated the first quarter of the year was most important, followed by 23 per cent for the third quarter, 25 per cent for the second and 15 per cent for the fourth.

Talk2 Media & Events CEO Matt Pearce said the research provides insight into what makes delegates tick.

“At AIME 2020, expect to be challenged both professionally and personally,” he said

“We have sharpened our focus on creating more meaningful and human moments, with greater opportunities to drive positive business results.”

AIME will take place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on 17-19 February 2020. With less than a week to go, visit aime.com.au for final registrations.