But how do you create a successful virtual event program?
In this article, we’ll explore the key elements of a virtual event program and provide tips on how to make your digital summit or virtual conference a success using virtual event software.
Why Virtual Events Are Important
The Rise of Remote Work
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift towards remote work, making virtual events more relevant than ever before. With many companies transitioning to remote work permanently, virtual events offer a way to connect with colleagues, clients, and industry professionals without the need for travel.
Cost-Effective and Convenient
Virtual events are also cost-effective and convenient. With no need for a physical venue, catering, or travel expenses, virtual events can save both time and money. Attendees can join from anywhere in the world, making it easier to reach a larger audience and attract top speakers.
Environmentally Friendly
In-person events often have a significant environmental impact, with travel, food waste, and paper usage contributing to carbon emissions. Using virtual event software, virtual events have a much smaller carbon footprint, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
Key Elements of a Virtual Event Program
Clear Objectives and Goals
Before you start planning your virtual event, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of your objectives and goals. Are you looking to generate leads, educate attendees, or build brand awareness? Having a clear goal in mind will help you shape your event program and measure its success.
Engaging Content
The success of any event depends on the quality of its content. When planning a virtual event, it’s crucial to have engaging and informative content that will keep attendees interested and coming back for more. Consider including a mix of presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions to keep your audience engaged.
High-Quality Speakers
Having high quality speakers will not only attract attendees but also provide valuable insights and expertise.
When selecting speakers, consider their experience, knowledge, and ability to engage with a virtual audience.
This last point is particularly important. Virtual delivery is very different from in-person. Limited audience feedback (either through body language or verbal responses) can present real challenges to experienced in-person presenters. If they are new to virtual delivery, encourage them to familiarise themselves with techniques for virtual presentations.
User-Friendly Technology
Technology is a critical component of any virtual event program. It’s essential to choose user-friendly virtual event software that can handle the number of attendees and provide a seamless experience. Consider features such as live streaming, chat, and Q&A to enhance audience engagement.
Networking Opportunities
One of the main benefits of in-person events is the opportunity to network with other attendees. Virtual events can also provide networking opportunities through features such as virtual breakout rooms, chat rooms, and one-on-one video calls. These features can help attendees connect with each other and build valuable relationships.
Marketing and Promotion
A solid marketing and promotion strategy in place can ensure optimal attendance. Use social media, email marketing, and targeted advertising to reach your target audience and generate buzz around your event. Consider offering early bird discounts or partnering with industry influencers to attract more attendees.
Tips for Creating a Successful Virtual Event Program
Plan Ahead
Planning is crucial for the success of any event, and virtual events are no exception. Start planning at least 3-6 months in advance to allow enough time for marketing, speaker selection, and technology set-up. This will also give you time to troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
Test Your Technology
Before the event, it’s essential to test your virtual event software to ensure everything is working correctly. This includes testing your platform, internet connection, and any equipment you’ll be using. Consider doing a trial run with your speakers and moderators to identify and fix any potential issues.
Your virtual event software provider should have tried and tested processes for ensuring tech success. Make sure they also have sufficient back-ups in case of unexpected challenges.
Keep Your Audience Engaged
Consider using interactive features such as polls, Q&A sessions, and live chat to keep attendees engaged and interested. You can also offer virtual networking opportunities to help attendees connect with each other.
Provide On-Demand Content
One of the benefits of virtual events is the ability to provide on-demand content. This means attendees can access recordings of sessions they may have missed or want to revisit. Consider offering on-demand content for a limited time after the event to provide added value to attendees.
Think about monetising this feature by offering it to-purchase for non-attendees.
Gather Feedback
After the event, it’s essential to gather feedback from attendees to help improve future events. Consider sending out a survey or hosting a virtual focus group to gather feedback on what worked well and what could be improved. This will help you make adjustments for future events and ensure continued success.
Conclusion
Virtual events offer a safe, cost-effective, and convenient way to connect with others and share information.
Choosing high-quality virtual event software with a range of interactive features, you’ll deliver a great event program with high engagement and positive attendee feedback.
