Chances are, you have either organized or attended a virtual event in the last year. Virtual events are refreshingly uncomplicated. The planning process can be remarkably straightforward and you have the luxury of participating from the cozy confines of your home.
It's not hard to understand why they are so popular!
In fact, in 2022, the market for virtual events was worth a whopping $160.21 billion. By 2030, the industry is expected to boast a valuation of $617.33 billion according to LinkedIn. The data doesn’t lie - virtual events are not just the latest buzz; they're a serious business investment. And if your virtual event is engaging and impactful for your audience? They’re an investment that can really pay off.
Here are 5 key strategies to help you make the most of your next webinar or virtual event.
Tip #1 - Breakout the Breakout Rooms
Breakout rooms are a valuable tool because they shift the audience from passive observation to active participation. If you leave your attendees listening for too long, you run the risk of losing their interest. But sprinkled between presentations, these virtual spaces foster smaller, more engaging discussions by putting attendees into groups where they can talk to each other. Facilitate the flow of energy by creating a slide with prompts tailored for each room. Use it to guide the group into meaningful and energizing conversation.
Tip #2 - Facilitate Live Messaging
Messaging during a webinar allows audience members to engage with each other, share knowledge, and react to content without interrupting the flow of the event. The key here is to appoint moderators, the unsung heroes who facilitate messaging and encourage audience feedback. These moderators play a crucial role in keeping the conversation constructive and on-topic, all without distracting the host. Your webinar takes center stage while messaging quietly weaves a thread of connection throughout your audience. It's a subtle yet powerful way to transform your event from a one-way broadcast to an interactive dialogue.
Tip #3 Utilize Polling
I don’t know about you, but when I see a poll on social media, it's hard to resist answering. There’s just something about sharing an opinion and getting to see others’ that sparks curiosity. This same concept can be applied to a live event.
Live polling is not just about gauging opinions; it's about making your audience feel heard, valued, and actively involved in the conversation. With polls seamlessly integrated, the risk of wandering minds or diverted attention diminishes.
Here’s a secret for you: The magic lies in a well-crafted question—one that sparks contemplation and invites genuine insight into the audience's needs, reactions to the content, areas of curiosity, or goals. You can also ask directive questions that help you with planning. For example, you could ask what resource would be the most helpful for them to receive after the event. Or, what they would like to do next - take a break or join a breakout room.
Tip #4 - Leverage Q&A Dynamics
The beauty of a live Q&A lies in its ability to add layers of value to your event. With the addition of Q&A, the event is ot merely a chance for attendees to listen—it's an opportunity for them to shape the conversation. Attendees walk away feeling informed, actively involved, and satisfied.
The live Q&A session becomes the bridge between the speaker and the audience, forging connections and leaving a lasting impression. It's a personalized touch that transforms your virtual event from a broadcast into a dialogue.
Tip #5 - Foster Ongoing Connections
Conclude your virtual event on a high note by sending a follow-up email that is filled to the brim with value. It’s important to express your gratitude to recipients for attending the event while offering a curated package of assets, from event recordings to additional resources like blogs or relevant web pages. This check-in helps to create a lasting connection and ongoing learning instead of a one-time fleeting interaction. Pro tip: dispatch this email within 48 hours so that you are still top of mind.
With these tricks up your sleeve, you can say goodbye to boring online events. Looking for more ways to make your marketing strategy stand out from the crowd? Give us a shout.
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