Conflict in the events world doesn’t always wear a red flag. More often, it’s subtle: a passive-aggressive email, last-minute stress bursts, or simmering tensions between Sales and Operations trying to meet impossible deadlines. These moments get shrugged off as “just part of the job,” but beneath the surface, they drain energy, morale, and focus.
What Conflict Actually Looks Like in the Events Industry (And Why It Matters Everywhere)
Key Insights from our 2025 Industry Survey:
74% say tensions stem from differences in opinion or misunderstandings.
66% point to communication breakdowns.
62% report conflicts between teams or departments.
52% highlight disputes over roles and decision-making.
24% reveal unresolved grievances.
23% have witnessed bullying, harassment, or misconduct.
22% feel psychological safety is lacking, blocking honest conversations.
On average, event professionals spend nearly 4 hours a week—that’s 15 hours a month—navigating these internal challenges.
What can hold you back
Organisational Readiness: Most know tensions exist but lack clear, reliable systems to address them.
Leadership & Culture: Leaders set the tone but often avoid ownership, leaving employees to cope alone. This breeds silence and avoidance.
The Hidden Cost: Unaddressed conflict damages trust, morale, and drives turnover. Yet, neutral facilitation—a proven remedy—is underused due to cost and awareness gaps.
This matters across industries
These patterns aren’t unique to the business events industry. Any fast-paced, deadline-driven environment—be it tech, healthcare, or manufacturing—faces similar challenges. If unresolved, conflicts quietly erode team effectiveness and innovation.
Next steps:
We will soon publish a best practice guide with clear, actionable steps to help HR professionals and team leaders manage workplace tensions effectively. If you’d like to receive the guide as soon as it’s available, just let us know.