Over the last few years, hybrid meetings have become the modern way to get down to business - giving both hosts and attendees more flexibility than ever before. As hybrid meetings are a combination of in-person and virtual attendees, a unique approach to event planning is needed.

One thing that’s as important today as it’s always been is choosing the perfect corporate venue. After all, the venue you choose can have a huge impact on the success of your hybrid meeting as it sets the tone for the entire event. Home to a variety of modern and stylish multi-functional meeting and event spaces in Melbourne, Pearl Riverfront removes the stress from booking corporate venues. 

Whether you’re hosting a small meeting or a large-scale conference, here are some of our top tips to help you make the best decision for your event - ensuring that it runs smoothly and successfully from start to end.

What to Look for in a Hybrid Meeting Space

Hybrid meeting spaces are becoming increasingly important as businesses adapt to remote and hybrid work environments. However, while your virtual attendees are important, your main focus should be on the comfort and convenience of your in-room attendees. When looking for a hybrid meeting space, here are some things to consider:

A Central Location

Picking a central location is an essential component of a corporate event, be it traditional or hybrid. It can help reduce travel costs, save time and money, and helps to ensure the success of the event.

A prime example of a meeting or conference room in a central location in the heart of Melbourne is Pearl Riverfront. With stunning waterfront views and a modern and stylish design, it offers an unparalleled setting that's guaranteed to impress your guests. 

Featuring state-of-the-art audiovisual technology, versatile meeting spaces, and world-class catering, Pearl Riverfront can accommodate events of all sizes and styles. Plus, it’s conveniently located near some of Melbourne's most popular attractions, including the Melbourne Aquarium and the Crown Entertainment Complex.

Spacious Meeting & Event Spaces

Choosing an appropriately sized meeting or event room is essential for the success of any business meeting or event. But why is size so important? The size of the room directly affects the overall experience of the attendees, and poorly chosen corporate venues can lead to discomfort and distraction - with natural lighting, online connectivity and business-focussed facilities all playing a vital role.

When a room is too small for the number of participants, it can create a cramped and stuffy atmosphere, making it  difficult for attendees to move around and engage in activities. On the other hand, a room that is too large can feel empty and disconnected, leading to a sense of disengagement and lack of intimacy. Knowing how many attendees are coming will help you pick the right one.

Pearl riverfront has a variety of corporate venues including six interconnecting studios and four bespoke boardrooms and meeting rooms. Modern, stylish and fully equipped with everything you need for a seamless hybrid meeting, this riverfront icon is perfectly positioned directly beneath Crowne Plaza Melbourne.

Innovative Technology

Technology plays a huge role in facilitating hybrid meetings - which makes it possible for attendees to participate in meetings both in-person and remotely. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated hybrid meets as more organisations looked for ways to enable remote work while maintaining collaboration and productivity. 

These changes have become an integral part of the way many businesses now work and look set to stay for the foreseeable. 

  • Video conferencing software
  • Audio equipment
  • Projectors and screens
  • Interactive whiteboards
  • Cloud-based storage solutions
  • High-speed WiFi

Video conferencing software: Video conferencing software allows participants to join the meeting from anywhere with an internet connection. Popular options include Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, Google Meet, and Webex.

Audio equipment: Good quality audio equipment is crucial for hybrid meetings, particularly for remote participants. This can include microphones, speakers, and headsets.

Projectors and screens: Projectors and screens are useful for displaying presentations and videos during meetings. They can be particularly important for in-person participants who need to see content clearly.

Interactive whiteboards: Interactive whiteboards allow participants to collaborate on digital documents and presentations in real time. They can be particularly useful for hybrid meetings where participants are located in different places.

Cloud-based storage solutions: Cloud-based storage solutions such as Google Drive, Dropbox, and Microsoft OneDrive allow participants  to share docs, presentations and other files during the meeting.

High-speed WiFi: Without WiFi, hybrid meetings would be a figment of the imagination. Choosing corporate venues with reliable, high-speed fibre internet that covers the entire venue is a must. Especially when multiple attendees are joining online.

Pre and Post-Function Facilities

Pre and post-function facilities can enhance the experience of in-room attendees during a hybrid meeting. These facilities, which include reception areas, networking spaces, bars and breakout rooms can provide attendees with opportunities to socialise, network, and engage with other participants before and after the main event. 

In-room attendees can use these spaces to meet and connect with remote attendees, as well as with each other. Pre and post-function facilities can also offer refreshments and some downtime that help create a more immersive and enjoyable experience for attendees. By incorporating these facilities into the hybrid meeting format, organisers can help in-room attendees feel more engaged, connected  and excited about the event.

Pearl Riverfront pre-function area provides 385m2 of space for up to 100 attendees to enjoy, with a fully-stocked bar and plenty of space to relax and take five in. For large-scale meetings and conferences that require multiple rooms and access to the pre-function area, our 6 interconnecting studios can be used individually or as one large space and provide maximum flexibility. Upstairs in Crowne Plaza Melbourne, attendees also have access to a variety of popular bars and restaurants at their disposal.

Planning The Perfect Hybrid Meeting or Event

At Crowne Plaza Melbourne, we understand that planning a successful meeting or event can be a daunting task. That's why we have a team of highly experienced planners who are dedicated to making sure your event is a success. 

Our planners will work closely with you to create a personalised plan that meets all of your requirements, exceeding your expectations and delivering a seamless meeting from start to end. Whether it's a corporate meeting, a conference, or a hybrid meeting, our team will ensure that every detail is taken care of.

From our corporate venues to our onsite catering, audiovisual equipment, and breakout spaces, we've got you covered. If you appreciate exceptional service and world-class meeting and event spaces, Pearl Riverfront checks all the right boxes.

Start planning the ultimate meeting, conference or event at Pearl Riverfront. Get in touch, today.