Reset Connect event: through the eyes of an energy PR

By Skye Morley, Account Executive, Aspectus Group

Read our Reset Connect London article for insights on the panels, exhibition, networking, app and venue, plus practical tips for your visit.

Last month, I headed to Reset Connect – part of London Climate Action Week.  

It’s an interesting intersection across tech/energy/financial services – all of which we support, and so it was interesting to hear insights from some of the biggest industry players. 

I met fantastic people, listened to some brilliant panels, and picked up as many tote bags as possible. Want to know what else you missed out on? See below! 

1. The panels

Pros: 

I attended four panels, and the standout takeaway was the passion and enthusiasm that the panelists spoke with. Often at events, speakers can be monotonous, but the speakers here really did their companies justice. The event also did a great job of splitting the panels into different key themes, meaning that you could sit in one seat and listen to three panels along the same theme, but with a different topic or insight. 

Cons: 

Panels overlapped, meaning you couldn’t hit every single one 

The ‘silent-disco-esque’ setup was a bit isolating, there was less chat before and after panels in the audience – we recognize that events like these are often primarily a networking opportunity, and so this seemed to be a missed opportunity.  

2. The exhibition 

Pros: 

It was a diverse turnout, with lots of friendly spokespeople for companies – I had some great conversations about a variety of topics, and learnt so much in one day. The stands also had a good merch selection, which is always a bonus… 

We were also intrigued by an electric bus in the middle of the hall, which was slightly unclear as to who it belonged to – but my real fascination went to a branded F3 car at the start. They offered a focal point, photo-sharing opportunity, and got people talking in person and online. 

Cons: 

The exhibition hall was smaller than expected, resulting in less stalls than anticipated – but we did do many laps, as often spokespeople were already engaged in conversation.  

3. The attendees 

Pros: 

There was a mix of companies, journalists, PR/creative agencies, consultancies and more – resulting in conversations which led to good client outcomes. The opportunity to meet journalists in person is so crucial to our everyday, and something I love to do – finding out what stories they’re writing, how we can help each other and where clients can fit in is incredibly beneficial to both of us. The location (Excel, London) meant that it was easy to have a coffee in one of the many Costas, whether with new business prospects, journalists, colleagues or others.  

Cons: 

The lanyard cards had job titles/companies printed in very small lettering, which meant some people would essentially be squinting at your stomach as you walk past, trying to identify you. Larger text would have been appreciated. 

4. The app 

Pros: 

The app allowed attendees to connect with others, view the schedule and add to your own calendar any panels or talks you wanted to attend. There is a chat function, a floorplan, a ‘meeting booker’, and a full list of attendees. 

Cons: 

The function to connect with people to arrange a meeting wasn’t very efficient, it was more like a ‘poke’ on early 2000’s Facebook.  

5. Location 

Pros: 

Excel London is spacious, meeting-friendly and accessible by train/bus/boat/airplane. The air con was much welcomed in the 30 degree heat, and there was plenty of food and drink options.  

Cons: 

I think the scale of the event didn’t particularly match the venue – perhaps Olympia or similar would’ve been a slightly smaller scale and better choice. 

In summary, the event was definitely worth attending – it’s worth the value (especially for a free ticket!), but perhaps only for one day rather than both. Organize your meet-ups in advance, pick your panels in advance, and make the most of the app to stay organized, as timing is everything in events like these. We’ll see you there next year! 

Key takeaways 

Is Reset Connect worth attending? 

Yes. The event offers strong networking opportunities, useful sector insights and access to professionals across energy, tech, finance, sustainability, media and communications. 

What was the biggest benefit from an energy PR perspective? 

The chance to meet journalists, industry spokespeople, agencies, consultancies and potential client contacts in person made the event especially valuable. 

What could Reset Connect improve next year? 

Better panel scheduling, clearer lanyard design, a more effective meeting function in the app and a venue scale that better matches the event size would improve the experience. 

How should attendees prepare for Reset Connect? 

Plan panels in advance, organise meetings before arriving, use the app to manage the schedule and allow enough time for conversations around the exhibition. 

About the author

Skye, based in London, has worked with a large variety of clients across energy, industrials and financial services, and has close relationships with a diverse range of journalists – getting clients where they want and need to be. She also works across digital media, including social media, website and more.