To explain the virtual events, they are events held online. Based on purpose, they can be hosted in multiple forms such as invitation webinars, live streams for the public, conferences that require paid passes, or informal social media events.
There are several online platforms for virtual events, such as GoToMeeting, Webex, Dryfta, Zoom, or Clubhouse, where the audience can be connected via video call or voice call depending on the nature of the virtual event. There has been a lot of growth and potential in specialized virtual event platforms and webinars in recent years. Apart from all the benefits attached to virtual events, one of the biggest benefits of hosting a virtual event is that it is comparatively inexpensive, no rental space or setup required, and you can interact with a global audience from the comfort of your home.
Along with all the benefits of virtual events, the success of a virtual event depends on the criteria set and the experience it provides to the participants. The event needs to be specified to hold a lasting effect on the participant/viewers’ memory.
Tips for a Successful Virtual Event
These are some of the best tips for a successful virtual event:
1. Understanding the Audience
Humans have a very short interest span so whenever you are trying to interact/host any such event, keep in view the audience you are attracting and interacting with. Prioritize the content and bring up information that leaves an aftertaste in the viewers’ memory. The too broad or vague pool of information will only mix up the main goal for attendees.
2. Format Building
A successful virtual event mainly depends on its Format. Once you know the target audience, align the event’s Format with the audience and their interest. Depending on the options and the event goal, line up multiple formats and then filter the formats to the one that sits perfectly with the target audience and the event’s objective.
3. Events Team
Depending on the capacity and the feature, an events team can be called in to assist with the Virtual event, making the process and planning easier and smoother. There are several options to work in and strategies at hand; getting the expert help can come in handy, dedicating the time to interacting with the different event planners as to what worked of the different events.
With a virtual event team, you can rely on them being tech-savvy and taking care of the technical department of the event for you. They can assist you in choosing a platform with the right settings and features that best fits your events specifications. The event team will be responsible for creating a smooth run of processes and events on the events day. If you don’t have access to a team, selecting the right platform is one of the most critical aspects of a virtual event.
4. Platform
One of the other main aspects of virtual events is the platform used. There are several platforms available in the current market which offer different features. Some of the platforms in the current market are Zoom, GoToMeeting, Webex, Dryfta, and many more. Depending on the features and the virtual event, select the platform that best aligns with the requirements.
Most of the platforms in the current market provide free trial/dry runs before the events utilize the option to test run the event to check the stability, functionality, and backup in case of any event. Every option/feature of the platform that is to be used in the running of the event needs to be tested. Record a test run and get a second opinion regarding the features and aspects of the event.
5. Promotion/Marketing
A successful virtual event relies on successful marketing, reflecting attendees, and social talk. For a public event, it needs to be marketed in such a way to attract more and more public. Do not rely on the audience to come to you. Advertise the event so that it creates interest at the audience end. Landing pages, blogs, newsletters, event listing websites, subscriptions are all the promotion means.
Make the target audience/public interact before the event and provide specified but juicy details to create interest. Provide clear event details like date, time, platform so that it is not overlooked.
6. Attendees Engagement
One of the greatest barriers in online events is attendee engagement. No audience wants an hour-long lecture. Plan activities in the event to involve participants encourage the participants to take part in the conversation. Rather than streaming content in one direction, make it a two-way connection. There is no incentive for the attendee to keep watching if it is just a one-sided flow of information. Similarly, focus on the aspect of the event that most interests the participants.
7. Event Feedback/Post Event Follow Up
Getting feedback and follow-up is also crucial to measure the impact/success virtual eve of the virtual events. Post-event surveys and social media engagement can also be used to measure an event’s success. Additionally, this feedback can be used as a reference tool for future events. Similarly, the feedback allows gathering specific data and keeping track of the target audience/market. Once the event is concluded, review it back with the team to specify what worked and whatnot pointers. It will create a better outline for future events.
The shift from In-person/Live meetings to virtual events has created an influx of online interaction. After two years of online meetings, conferences, and events, the last thing any audience needs is to go through another webinar/virtual event. Consider this opportunity to provide attendees/participants a worthwhile experience by entertaining and engaging in creating an everlasting effect.
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