Maximizing event productivity

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Maximizing event productivity

May 10, 2024

As the founder of Xsolla, a company that participates in over 100 industry events annually, I've explored numerous formats for engagement. Through extensive experience, I've discovered a highly productive way to leverage these opportunities—salon discussions. At Xsolla, we value deep, meaningful interactions which foster genuine connections and insightful exchanges. That's why we've embraced a unique approach to participating in events: hosting salon discussions. This format involves regular, open gatherings of 8 to 12 industry experts in a serene setting, allowing for focused, undisturbed dialogue. I like to call them “salon discussions” as they are an opportunity for us to meet together and discuss opportunities and challenges in an open environment. Here’s how we structure these salon discussions:

1. A Welcoming Environment

Each session is held in a quiet room, removed from the usual hustle and bustle of typical industry events. This setting helps maintain a focused atmosphere conducive to open, meaningful dialogue.

2. Comfort & Cuisine

Comfort is key in facilitating relaxed, open conversations. We ensure that the environment is not only quiet, but also comfortable, equipped with ample food and beverages. Each part of the day is catered with meals like brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner, and takes into account dietary preferences or restrictions of attendees, creating an inviting and nurturing atmosphere.

3. Time & Format

Each salon discussion lasts for up to two hours, depending on location and schedules, ensuring enough time to delve deep into discussions without feeling rushed.

4. Off-The-Record

To encourage frank and free exchanges, all discussions are held off the record and notes are not taken. This confidentiality allows participants to share insights and ideas more openly, fostering a trustful environment where innovative ideas can flourish. Everyone in attendance has the opportunity to meet up afterwards to continue their dialogue and potential opportunities for collaboration.

5. Engagement with Experts

By limiting the number of participants and involving industry experts, we facilitate a level of engagement and exchange rarely achievable in larger, more public settings. This selective grouping fosters a more intense and productive dialogue, leading to actionable insights and stronger industry relationships.

6. Inclusive Dialogue

The main rule of our salons is to not merely speak to your neighbor, but to every participant at the table. This approach encourages discussions which are broad and inclusive, steering away from side conversations typical of mixers and other formats. By engaging with the entire table and individuals in the room, conversations become more meaningful and impactful, setting our salons apart as a venue for deeper connection and exchange. Through these salon discussions, Xsolla not only participates in industry events but also sets a benchmark for productive engagement. This approach has transformed how we network, learn, and collaborate, significantly impacting our business and the industry positively. Salon discussions exemplify how we can all think outside the traditional frameworks to create more impactful, meaningful interactions in our professional gatherings. By sharing this, I hope to inspire other professionals and companies to rethink how they engage at industry events. It’s about quality, not just quantity, and creating environments where real progress can be made. P.S. And if you are looking to join Xsolla’s salon discussions, please visit xsolla.com/salons to express your interest and stay informed on future salon discussions and how you can participate. My team and I look forward to seeing you at the next open discussions around the world. Written & Published By Xsolla Founder, Shurick Agapitov