How Do You Make Virtual Events More Engaging?
Since the pandemic, the concept of virtual events has significantly evolved. While many event producers prefer on-site events, surveys reveal that 95.5% are still looking forward to hosting virtual events. The success of virtual events largely depends on attendee engagement. So, how can virtual events be made more engaging?
How to Organise Virtual Events?
Various factors collectively make any virtual event more engaging. Here’s a guide to organising an engaging virtual event:
Ensure the Event’s Clear Purpose
Before promoting your event, ensure it has a clear objective. Knowing the event’s purpose and the expected gains will make further arrangements straightforward.
Choose a Suitable Platform
Just as you would select multiple venues for an on-site event, choosing the right online platform is crucial for virtual events. Consider factors such as:
- Audience Size: For large audiences, choose a high-quality platform to avoid glitches.
- Event Duration: Ensure the platform supports long-duration conferences without time restrictions.
Select an Engaging Topic
Planning an event around an engaging topic is key. Even if the topic is educational, you can make it interesting by incorporating quizzes and Q&A sessions.
Invite Related Famous Personalities
Invite influential figures in the relevant field to attract a larger audience and increase participation.
Start Strong
A strong introduction sets the tone for the event and keeps the audience eagerly awaiting the start.
Promote Intellectuality
Make your event intellectual by holding open panel discussions and encouraging networking and conversations.
Utilise Visuals
Visuals are highly effective in grabbing attention. Replace traditional PPTs with engaging videos to present information.
Ensure Suitable Duration
Avoid dragging the event. Keep content concise and to the point, focusing on quantitative over qualitative content.
Hype-Up Your End
End the event on a high note with exciting activities like Q&A sessions or small ceremonies.
Maintain Contact
Stay in touch with clients post-event for feedback and referrals, leveraging word-of-mouth marketing.
Strategies to Make Virtual Events More Engaging
Send Reminders
Frequent reminders can help increase attendance and create hype for the event.
Divide into Numerous Sessions
Break the event into segments lasting 15-20 minutes to maintain attention.
Allow Clients to Choose Segments
Let participants choose their paths or segments, ensuring they attend sessions of interest.
Spread Over Days
For longer events, spread the content over several days to keep it manageable and engaging.
Host Online Contests
Engage clients with virtual contests, offering prizes to winners for added motivation.
Induce Gamification
Incorporate online games to improve engagement and enhance the attendee experience.
Create a Virtual Chat Room
Incorporate a chat room for real-time interaction and discussion.
Introduce a Live Polling System
Add a polling system to increase engagement and gather participant feedback.
Conduct Q&A Sessions
Q&A sessions are effective in grabbing attention and enhancing the event’s value.
Use Reliable AV Equipment
Seamless technology is crucial for virtual events. Invest in high-quality AV equipment to avoid glitches.
Conclusion
Planning a virtual event with engagement in mind from the start is crucial. Factors like reliable AV equipment can significantly impact attendee engagement. Bring unique content to the forefront and maintain a balance between informational and entertainment segments to make virtual events more engaging and memorable.
FAQs
What are the main benefits of hosting a virtual event?
- Global Connectivity: Connect with people worldwide.
- Engagement Tracking: Easily scale and analyse event performance.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Conduct events without weather or time constraints.
- Maximum Attendance: Ensure more attendees can participate.
How do I choose a platform to conduct a virtual event?
Consider audience size, event duration, and platform features to select the best option for your event.
How do you plan a virtual event?
- Identify Your Audience: Determine the targeted audience for the event.
- Craft Your Event Strategy: Develop a strategy that aligns with your event goals.
- Promote Your Event: Promote the event before, during, and after to attract attendees.
- Schedule Tech Rehearsals: Conduct rehearsals to ensure seamless technology.
How important is AV equipment for virtual events?
AV equipment is vital for successful virtual events. Invest in high-quality microphones, cameras, and laptops to ensure a seamless experience.
