Things people hate to hear at conferences 2025
At conferences and events, several phrases will strike fear into every attendee. Believe us; no one wants to hear these dreaded words. Here’s what they are and our tips on how to avoid these.
Conferences can be a fantastic opportunity for networking, learning, and inspiration - but they also come with their fair share of frustrations. From overused marketing jargon and lengthy introductions to speakers who go off-topic, there are plenty of things that make attendees cringe. When an event professional says, "Let’s take this offline" or "One more question before lunch", it can test the patience of even the most engaged audience. We explore the phrases customers hate to hear at conferences and share tips on improving event policy to keep your sessions engaging and impactful.
What’s going on?
These days, an event planner is challenged to bring new ideas to conferences rather than the standard format. However, you need to inform attendees of the structure of the day. There’s nothing worse than not knowing the rough form or flow of the day. Content should be clear, relevant and consistent.
Start and end on time
Starting late or finishing after advertised is a big bugbear. Even with the best intentions, participants can’t and won’t all arrive simultaneously at the exact time a meeting is scheduled to start. Finishing late is also a big no-no. Parents may need to get their children from school, or delegates may have other appointments to get to. Don’t be offended if someone politely tells the organiser they have to leave.
Painful icebreakers
Sometimes, icebreakers are unavoidable. If delegates don’t know each other, they need to feel comfortable quickly. If done right, icebreakers can energise people and kick off the session on a high note. What about rock-paper-scissors? Round by round, players will be eliminated, leaving a winner. Don’t forget to give the winner a prize.
Queue up here
If long queues are unavoidable, make sure there is something to do. Fill the void of waiting with something to read, an industry video to watch or a brain teaser to test their knowledge or expectations.
WiFi isn’t working
Whether it is following the conference on social media or sending an email, make sure that the WiFi is working ahead of time. Things we all hate doing is checking posts, news or reading a blog without being connected.
Learn more by purchasing
One of the things people hate most is when a workshop is poorly promoted. For example, if it is ‘interesting ways to generate new business leads’, give those attending some practical ideas. It is frustrating to hint at them and then say you can learn more by purchasing a course or a book. Give a real hook before you extend the offer.
Any questions?
How many meetings have you been to where the people who should contribute don’t? Study your attendee list and develop a shortlist of questions that can be directed at the audience. Start a discussion instead of waiting for the debate to start.
Coffee
It seems that one of the biggest things we all hate is coffee, from tasting awful to not being provided at all. This is easily solved. Make sure there are tea and coffee facilities provided, as well as water or soft drinks. Having a brew in hand makes guests feel more at ease to work the room and network.
It’s a healthy lunch
There’s nothing wrong with a healthy lunch but it needs to be exciting and be able to fuel that afternoon dip. Things adults hate is food being uninspiring. Delegates want something easy to eat, feel satisfied. The food should keep their mind sharp. Can the bacon rolls at breakfast be served on rye bread, white rice, and pasta swapped for wholemeal? Or can more superfoods be added to the menu?
Sorry, we’ve run out
One thing you dislike is not getting the goody bag, business manual or free handout options. It makes delegates feel that they aren’t welcome at the meeting. Management of your stock is vital. Make sure you have more than enough for all attendees.
going to conference alone
Walking into a room full of strangers can be daunting. Plus, introverts hate meetings. Many people hate hearing "Are you here alone?" as it can amplify feelings of isolation. Encouragement to "Just mingle!" can feel unhelpful and overwhelming for solo attendees. Share practical advice on how to break the ice, make connections, and maximise the conference experience when attending solo, such as joining smaller breakout sessions, attending pre-conference networking events, or using conference apps to connect with other attendees beforehand.
Time to book your conference venue
Now that you know what you can expect of your venue, it’s time to arrange the other bits - organising a keynote speaker, inviting the attendees and printing your marketing material. With so many details you need to cover, it’s a relief to know that the venue has been ticked off your list.
How can Future Inns help plan your event?
Future Inns are superbly equipped to host your next meeting or conference and have various event suites depending on your delegate specifications. Our Event Planners can advise on maximum delegate numbers, room configurations, explain food and drink set-ups.
Our meeting rooms feature free WiFi, data projection, flipchart and pens, temperature control and blackout facilities. There is ample free car parking* available on-site, along with three large coach bays*.
* Not available at Future Inn Bristol
Contact Future Inns
Contact a member of our Events Team today to discuss facilitating a professional and worry-free experience for you as an organiser and all of your delegates.
Future Inn Bristol
Future Inn Bristol is superbly equipped to host your next meeting or conference. All meeting rooms and event suites are on the impressive 6th floor. It is an excellent choice for both business and leisure events, and the rooftop balcony offers some of the best views of Bristol City Centre.
There are six meeting rooms, ranging in capacity up to 300 delegates, available per hour, half-day, full-day or evenings. All with generous amounts of natural daylight and views over Bristol city centre. There’s also complimentary WiFi, LCD projector, flipcharts and pens, temperature control and blackout facilities.
Bristol
Future Inn Cardiff
Future Inn Cardiff is superbly equipped to host your next meeting or conference. With its easy-to-reach location, it’s the perfect venue for business. With several helpful meeting packages priced per person, Future Inns offers everything needed for a successful event while providing excellent value for money.
The flexible meeting rooms, event space, and breakout areas will accommodate all your needs. Eight meeting rooms are available, ranging in capacity up to 210 delegates (300 for an exhibition).
Cardiff
Future Inn Plymouth
Future Inn Plymouth offers a versatile and welcoming space for conferences, meetings, and events, with flexible rooms and modern facilities to suit gatherings of all sizes.
Eight fully equipped modern meeting and private event suites are on the ground floor, making it accessible with large doors and wide corridors. Delegate packages need everything you need, including natural daylight, free WiFi, data projection, flipchart and pens, temperature control and blackout facilities.
Plymouth
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