How to tackle a successful virtual event

Is it possible to turn a multi-day conference, filled with networking opportunities, educational sessions, and the attendee’s insights they create into a virtual event? Do you ask yourself if the value of face-to-face interaction will be ruined without in-person events? You might also ask yourself if the attendees will stay engaged throughout the event?

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The majority of us can agree that there is more value in in-person events instead of virtual events, however, there are times when going virtual is a necessary part of your event program.

For both in-person and virtual events, you will need to craft an event strategy to effectively promote the event, engage your attendees, create a memorable experience for attendees, and have a successful event. The only difference is a computer screen instead of a real-life experience. 

Why host a virtual event?

With any type of event, your goal should be to deliver your company’s message to drive leads and revenue, drive acceptance, and build loyalty lifetime value.

Accessibility: allows convenience for all guests unable to attend the event in-person

Budget: helps your company cut costs and also allows your attendees to save travel costs

As we have seen over the past couple of years with the COVID pandemic, virtual events are a great option when there are no other options. Not only could a global pandemic force your company to turn to virtual events, but extreme weather conditions, travel bans, or an act of God could also change your plans for your in-person event. 

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Virtual events rely on creativity, content, and technology. 

Virtual events require more creativity and content to better attendees’ experience. Virtual events also require excellent event technology. Without the use of computers and mobile devices, attendance wouldn’t be possible. The best idea is to provide your attendees with a guide explaining how to access the event, sessions, and more. Maybe even allow your attendees to practice launching the meetings or conferences before the event starts to ease the event day stress and ensure an overall better attendee experience. 

Global corporation online videoconference in meeting room with diverse people sitting in modern office and multicultural multiethnic colleagues on big screen monitor.

Virtual events rely on engagement.

You might think that virtual events don’t provide an opportunity for engagement – that information is wrong. You need to include the engagement tools provided in the event technology such as live Q&A, message capabilities to set up meetings after the event, and of course social media! Create and encourage an event hashtag to engage attendees and make them feel a part of the community. Provide dedicated networking times to promote attendees to network with professionals.

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

Virtual events gather more data to track. 

With everything being online, you will have access to more information such as the number of attendees, demographic information, post-event survey results, number of leads, buying interests, and more social media engagement.

Your event success depends on aligning your event and business goals. Always remember to identify key performance indicators to define event success before your event, during your event, and after your event. 

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Check out my previous blog “The impact of COVID in the event industry” to read more about the effects on the event industry! I also recommend reading Endless Events recent blog on Virtual Audience Engagement!

With these helpful steps, you can deliver an engaging, informative experience for your attendees!

What other steps would you recommend for event professionals to incorporate for their successful virtual event? I would love to know your thoughts! Comment below and make sure to subscribe for more event creativity content. 

Thanks for reading!