Let’s face it, virtual events aren’t going anywhere. And, why should they? We’re big fans of virtual events and meetings; albeit, nothing beats in person. The amount of convenience offered by virtual events is a huge benefit.
But MackWP, you’re a content marketing company, why are you talking about virtual events? To be honest with you, a large part of our business is done virtually these days. We’re guessing that at least part of yours is done virtually as well. Rather than fighting the push for virtual events and meetings, why not make the best of them?
Let’s look at a few ways to improve your virtual meetings and events.
Set goals for it
Setting goals for your virtual events are a great way to set expectations and let others know what the event or meeting is about, along with possible outcomes. Are you hosting a virtual networking event? Let others know participation is encouraged and the kinds of connections they may make.
Culture
Establish a culture for the meeting and event. Should others all be on video, or is audio-only alright for some participants? Will participants be dressed in business, business casual, or casual attire? Will the meeting have a more formal or informal feel? These are all important to set to keep everyone on the same page, keep distractions low, and keeping the meeting or event efficient and effective.
Choose the right time for your event or meeting
You want your meeting or event to be at a time that works for everyone or the largest amount of people. Will participants across several time zones be joining the event? Is your team or participants more apt to join and engage in the morning or evening? Are you hosting a virtual happy hour? Take all factors into consideration when setting the time for your meeting or event.
Set and share a clear agenda
Nothing will crash your virtual meeting or event faster than participants sitting around with no objective or direction. To help keep your virtual event flowing smoothly and others engaged, set an agenda complete with timing so those joining you can plan accordingly and know what to expect.
Engage your participants
Keep those joining your virtual event engaged and enjoying it in a variety of ways. Icebreaker questions are often used in networking events. You may start the event by having everyone introduce themselves and answer an icebreaker question, letting others gain a deeper insight into one another. You may encourage them to have one-on-one conversations, create smaller, more intimate groups using breakout rooms, hold a Q&A for participants to ask the host questions, and more.
Follow up with everyone after the event
A follow-up is powerful when building connections and is often overlooked these days. Follow up with all participants, thanking them for joining you. Ask them what they took away from the meeting and what you could improve for the next event or meeting.
Potential Virtual Events
Here were just going to list different virtual events you may host, in case you want to hold a virtual event but aren’t sure what to do.
- AMA (Ask me anything) on one of your social channels.
- Virtual workshop
- Virtual conference
- Virtual networking event
- Virtual happy hour
- Virtual fundraising event
- Virtual hiring event
- Virtual team building events
- Webinar
What else would you add to the list of virtual events?
Until next time, keep smiling.
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