A summit meeting is a gathering of top industry leaders and influencers who come together to share ideas on a specific topic. The purpose is to spark a discussion and inspire action. Summit meetings are often well-organized and have a clear objective. For example, the 1994 Miami Summit on the Americas set the stage for the Summit process, an institutionalized meeting at the highest level of government decision-making in the Western Hemisphere where experiences are accumulated and new theoretical and practical references for the management of hemispheric affairs are established.
The goal is to create a memorable experience that will leave a lasting impression on your audience and help them take the next step. For this reason, it’s essential to define your event goals and target audience from the start. This will guide the content and tone of your summit, as well as ensure that you’re attracting the right people to attend.
To make the most of your summit, focus on creating engaging experiences. Consider including icebreakers, group activities, and a shared challenge that will bring your attendees together and build trust.
Summits can be effective for building trust and momentum, but they must be followed up to deliver value after the event is over. A good follow-up plan is key to channeling volunteer enthusiasm, maintaining momentum, and achieving the envisioned change.
For instance, a company summit may have five objectives for the executive team. These might include establishing a realistic understanding of the business situation and needs, setting growth targets, restoring employees’ faith in the brand, and preparing to embark on a cost-reduction program.