A summit meeting is a gathering of industry experts and leaders to discuss big issues, brainstorm solutions, and inspire action. They’re often held on a high-level, with a specific topic in mind (such as innovation, sustainability, or global health). Summits aren’t only reserved for political leaders — organizations within all industries host their own events to bring together like-minded people and foster collaboration.
The goal of a summit is to provide participants with knowledge and tools they can use in their day-to-day work, whether it’s through expert-led talks or hands-on workshops. They should also leave with a renewed sense of confidence and motivation to tackle difficult challenges in the future.
Whether in-person or virtual, the most successful summits are those that create an experience that goes beyond simply sharing content. Attendees crave in-depth discussions that get to the core of complex problems and reveal new pathways forward. That’s why it’s important to include ample networking time and cozy spaces for conversations — you never know where the next great idea will spark.
A summit meeting can take many different forms, from keynotes to panel discussions and breakout sessions. Whichever format you choose, it’s important to consider your audience and their goals before planning out the event details. Summits can be a powerful way to rally members around a common cause and create connections that last long after the event has ended. To make the most of your event, be sure to follow up with a call to action that encourages attendees to take further action — whether it’s signing up for a mailing list, attending a future summit, or scheduling a demo.