Many corporate events went into hiding during the pandemic, but they’re beginning to make a resurgence. Helping to lead the charge is dedicated corporate event software, which makes it easy to produce events of all types in a virtual or hybrid format.
Let’s look at some of the key use cases for corporate event software in 2023 and how they’re helping events bounce back.
1. Internal meetings
After the sudden shift to remote work, it wasn’t long before workers started feeling major Zoom fatigue. This has prompted many companies to seek other solutions for internal meetings. Tools like Canapii have been high on the list because it’s designed to engage attendees, track analytics, and create custom experiences. The same simply can’t be said for basic video conferencing tools like Zoom.
2. Networking
Corporate events emphasize the importance of networking and facetime with clients, leads, and colleagues. However, more companies are discovering they can get about the same impact from virtual corporate events. In some ways, this format is even more personal because it gives a glimpse inside a person’s home or “regular” life. Plus, you have the benefit of recording interactions to refer back to later, which can support follow-up calls and emails.
3. Product launches
Product launch events are nothing new, but taking them virtual is still somewhat uncharted territory. Virtual event software like Canapii makes it easy to gauge attendees’ impressions and reactions. Plus, companies may be able to have more people in attendance because of the virtual format’s scalability.
4. Conferences
A popular use case for corporate event software, conferences will always be a requirement in the business world. However, the right virtual event platform can add new layers of engagement to otherwise ho-hum conferences. Include interactive elements to keep audiences engaged. Customize the experiences so that each conference presents a unique look and feel. No one will ever want to go back to an ordinary conference room again.
5. Training workshops
Training at scale has often been the bane of HR teams, but event software makes it possible. No longer restricted by space requirements, companies can conduct enterprise-wide training or workshops with just a few clicks.
6. Seminars
Virtual seminars are nothing new, but the pandemic has increased the brightness of the spotlight on them. Online seminars allow more people to access content without the complexities of travel and productivity loss. Plus, they can be just as engaging as in-person events. Submit questions, participate in polls, and even record sessions so you can replay them at your convenience.
7. Christmas parties
Yes, even the office Christmas party can get a virtual makeover. Sure, you won’t have access to an endless buffet. But you can liven up the event with Christmas carols, games, and other interactive activities. All the money you would have spent on food, entertainment, and decorations can be put toward an employee gift or bonus.
8. Trade shows
Corporate trade shows might seem like an unlikely candidate when it comes to virtual formats. But this idea is gaining steam across industries for a variety of reasons. First up, trade shows are expensive. They cost thousands of dollars for booth space, and thousands more dollars for the booth or exhibit itself. Tack on travel costs, employee payroll, marketing, and a myriad of other expenses. It takes a lot to see an ROI from a trade show event.
Virtual formats are helping to lower costs and other barriers to entry so that companies can see a better return on investment. With good event tools, you can keep track of interactions, generate leads, have one-to-one conversations, and other things that you could do in person.
9. Incentive programs
Incentive programs are essential in maximizing employee engagement and rewarding them for their contributions. These incentives usually include just a few select employees, which is why a virtual format makes so much sense. Small groups can better engage with each other, form stronger connections, and get more from the experience.
10. Team building events
No trust fall exercises here! Virtual team building events take a lot of the awkwardness out of the process and place the focus where it needs to be: on the team. Participants can spend their time interacting with each other instead of feeling put on the spot.
11. Partner marketing events
Virtual events can extend outside of the company walls to include partners and stakeholders, too. For example, you might jointly host a webinar or workshop with a partner that will generate leads for both of you. Or, you could host a partner appreciation event and let them network with your team. This is a great way to maintain loyalty while also building up referrals.
12. Fundraising events
Fundraising participation took a dip in 2020, leaving marketers and organizations to figure out a new approach. The answer for many was a virtual fundraising event. This allows people to give in a risk-free environment in a way that’s convenient to them.
For more ways to use virtual event software, contact Canapii today!
