MICE Sector Faces Growth Challenges Amid Labor Shortages and Burnout
The MICE sector's growth is hampered as staff burnout leads to a significant labor shortage in the events industry.
MICE Sector Faces Growth Challenges Amid Labor Shortages and Burnout
With the global business events sector growing at a compound rate of 6.4 percent per annum, it’s not surprising that it is one of the most lucrative aspects of the meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE) industry.
It is estimated that at any moment, there are numerous business events of varying sizes happening globally, thanks to the dedicated efforts of event management and MICE professionals who organize them. The rise of hybrid events during the pandemic allowed live streaming from venues, increasing attendance for those unable to join in person.
While this success is commendable, it comes with drawbacks concerning the mental health and well-being of event management staff.
Burnout Hits Hard
According to a report from the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA), over a third of event planners worldwide have reported feeling exhausted and burnt out from their roles. A 2023 report from The Culture Collectors indicated that 79 percent of event professionals now view their roles as more stressful than ever, ranking event management as the third most stressful job globally.
This situation has urged MICE companies, suppliers, and government organizations to identify strategies to prevent burnout among their personnel.
What’s Fueling Burnout in the Industry?
A report from UK-based events management firm Goho revealed that about 42 percent of event professionals have left the industry, citing stress and pressure as their primary reasons for quitting. Furthermore, 28 percent indicated that a lack of work-life balance contributes significantly to burnout.
Event personnel often prioritize attendees’ needs over their own, sometimes even working while unwell, which can lead to detrimental effects for both the individuals and the events.
SOS for Event Professionals
Dr. Prem Kumar Chandrasekaran from Penang Adventist Hospital spoke compellingly at BE @ Penang 2025. He advised event professionals to prioritize their mental and physical health, advocating for better work-life balance.
Chandrasekaran encouraged saying no to unnecessary tasks and managing workloads effectively. However, implementing these changes requires companies to provide proper resources to maintain staff well-being.
Practical Measures to Combat Burnout
- Allow ample post-recovery time: Organizing events isn’t easy and requires significant planning. Adequate rest is crucial to rejuvenate staff after events.
- Avoid back-to-back events: Scheduling should consider staff health to prevent exhaustion.
- Automate where necessary: Leverage technology to reduce manual work, preventing errors and lessening the workload.
- Encourage open dialogue: Post-event discussions can help identify improvements and address challenges faced by the team.
- Know your limits: Recognizing limits can result in better expectations and outcomes without overwhelming staff.
