The New Normal of Business Events: What Do We Do With It?

Lately, I keep hearing the same thing—whether it’s from members of my community or from people in other circles: "I’m tired of attending events. Everyone’s trying to sell, and no one wants to buy anymore."

And honestly? They’re not wrong.

We’re living in a time where people are rushing from one event to another, stuck in a constant loop of trying to sell. No time to listen. No patience. No follow-through.

People promise, but don’t deliver. Say they’ll get involved, and then disappear. Business these days can feel like an emotional minefield.

As I’ve said in a previous article: Nothing is the same anymore. But the real question is: what exactly are we trying to adapt to? What is the new normal?

From politics to partnerships, from people to projects—everything feels upside down. And yet, I still believe we can move forward. But only if we shift from complaining to doing.

About Events and Involvement

If we go to events just to criticize or complain, nothing will change. The success of an event—or any initiative—doesn’t lie solely in the hands of the organizer. It also depends on the engagement of those who attend.

If we don’t like being aggressively pitched, then maybe we should also stop showing up only with our own sales pitch ready. Maybe it’s time to reconnect with what true networking actually means: genuine conversations, real listening, human connection.

And if we resonate with a project, a mission, a community—then let’s contribute, not just observe or critique from the sidelines. Even small involvement can make a big difference.

"Good people"? They still exist.

I’ve caught myself saying it—and I’ve heard many others say it too: "There are no more decent people out there."

But that’s not true. The good ones are still here. They’re just a bit overwhelmed, disillusioned, and cautious. Just like us, walking carefully across a field of uncertainty, afraid something might explode at the next step.

My question to you:

To those of you who took the time to read this: What challenges are you facing in today’s business world? And more importantly: What solutions are you bringing to the table?

Because seeing the problem is just step one. Doing something about it—that’s what changes the game.