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Insights on events, technology, and the future of gathering
Quick answer: A virtual event is hosted entirely online, where everyone joins through one platform instead of a venue. To host one well you pick the right platform, plan the format and interaction, promote it early, and use engagement and analytics tools to keep attendees involved.
A virtual event takes place online, on a single platform everyone logs into
Going virtual widens reach, improves inclusivity and lowers cost
Plan around audience, expected numbers, interaction needs and technology
Drive engagement with chat, activities, polls, gamification and a social wall
Promote across social, PR and email; monetize via tickets, sponsorships, booths and ads
A virtual event is any event that takes place online, hosted on one platform everyone logs into. Formats vary widely, but they all bring people together digitally rather than at a venue.
Virtual events make attending far easier and reach a wider audience: they connect distant participants, remove the commute for a more inclusive experience, cut venue and catering costs, and protect health when needed.
You set up your online venue in advance - with breakout rooms, webinar sessions and any features you need - and share a join link, openly or after registration. Attendees log in at the start and use the spaces you have built.
Plan around four questions: who is my audience and what do they want; how many attendees am I expecting (which dictates the platform); what interaction will I need; and does everyone have the technology, including quality mic, camera and technical support.
Replicate the energy of in-person events with active participation: offer real-time chat and breakout rooms, include activities and exercises, run polls and questions, add games or contests, and set up a social wall.
Promotion largely determines success. Use social media (organic plus targeted ads), public relations (media coverage, podcasts), and email marketing to your existing followers, with perks for your VIPs.
Charge for admission (priced to the value delivered), sell sponsorship packages, sell virtual exhibition booths, and sell ad placements or goody-bag inclusions.
Show immediate value, offer a wide timeframe with on-demand recordings for those with conflicts, and plan and advertise early - months ahead, continuing until a few days before to catch impulse sign-ups.
An event hosted entirely online on a single platform that everyone logs into, rather than at a venue.
A suitable platform, a planned format, the right interaction features, and reliable technology for hosts and support.
Use real-time chat, breakout rooms, activities, polls, gamification and a social wall to encourage active participation.
To start planning your next virtual event, reach out to us today.