6 Essential Guidelines for Organizing a Successful Live Virtual Event
6 Essential Guidelines for Organizing a Successful Live Virtual Event
In light of the pandemic's impact on in-person events, many businesses are discovering that virtual meetings and activities can be almost as good as, if not better than, the in-person experience.
When it comes to holding live meetings or events, getting started can be difficult if your company does not already have prior experience. Follow these guidelines to ensure that your virtual events are productive and hassle-free.
1. Just go ahead and do it
No one has mastered the art of conducting business in the age of the coronavirus, and we are all still learning as we go. Don't let a lack of prior experience with virtual events deter you from participating in them. Considering that even major news anchors are now broadcasting from their homes, and that the internet is awash in humorous "fails" from online meetings, your virtual audience will not expect perfection from you; the most important thing is to establish a connection. If you experience any difficulties during the process, you can work to resolve them for the next time.
2. Make sure everything is tested first and that you have a backup plan in place
Be sure that everything is in place and running smoothly before going live. Check your internet connection, speakers, presentation, and visuals, then conduct a run-through with all presenters in the same room where the event will be held to ensure that lighting and sound are working properly, among other things. Prepare a strategy for assisting people who are experiencing technical difficulties.
3. Select the most appropriate tool
The number of live streaming platforms and video conferencing tools available is in the dozens. Preliminarily, ensure that the platform you choose as an alternative to Eventbrite, has all of the features you may require, such as the number of attendees supported, interactive features such as chat and polling, online breakout rooms for side discussions, a virtual exhibit hall, analytics, social media integration, and so on.
4. Incorporate interactive elements into your events
Make your virtual event more interactive in order to truly capture the attention of your online event audience and give them the impression that they are participating in a group activity with real communication and interaction. A wide range of interactive features, such as chat, polls, and quizzes, are available on almost every online platform. During and after the event, make use of those tools to keep your online audience engaged, and solicit feedback from them.
5. Make your company's name known
Making use of every opportunity to display and promote your brand during your virtual events, from branded background slides in Zoom to sharing brand-focused videos on your website and social media channels, will help to make your virtual events feel more personal and memorable.
6. Make a public display of your face
Whenever a virtual event takes the place of a traditional meeting, it is critical that the interaction remain as close to face to face as possible. In order to create a more engaging experience for everyone, have presenters and participants turn on their cameras. This will allow everyone to benefit from seeing non-verbal cues and expressions, which can greatly enhance the overall experience of a virtual meeting.
