The internet has changed a lot of things, including how we interact with one another. Never before has the effect of the internet been more felt than during the COVID-19 pandemic where everyone has gone digital. This pandemic saw a boom of virtual events where fellow professionals connect with one another. A lot of networking and social life has shifted online, and even businesses are following suit already.

This article will traverse what virtual events are, and how virtual experiences usually function. You will also find out how to host a successful virtual event that will surely be productive and worthwhile for everyone.

The Boom of Virtual Events

Virtual events are, of course, usually held online. The virtual events could be hosted in the form of invite-only webinars, publicly available live streams, online conferences requiring paid passes or informal social media events. Any industry nowadays can host different virtual events like webinars or classes. For example, a cocktail drinks business or company can also host a virtual mixology class with kits that they can provide to their students.

Virtual events usually take place on online platforms like Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Zoom among others, and they communicate with the audience via video chat or voice call. With the help of digitalization, the conventional seminars and conferences that we knew are now also being held through virtual events.

The advantage of holding a virtual event is that there is no need to rent a space and everything could be organized without leaving your home. However, the downside of hosting virtual events is basically the quality of everyone’s internet connection. You will have to consider that some guests may encounter a struggle with video and audio quality, poor soundproofing or background noise.

Hosting a virtual live event could be difficult at first, but here are some great tips that will help you run the program smoothly:

1.      Follow the S.M.A.R.T goals

It is important to set your goals, and those goals should be S.M.A.R.T (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-Based). Basically, know why you’re holding an event and understand what you and your team want to achieve.

2.      Consider your guests’ schedule

You want to take into account how many people will be able to attend, and if some of your guests are based outside the country, you have to consider the different time zones and even their specific holidays.

3.      Engage your guests

 Instead of lecturing for hours, try to engage your audience by letting them participate or talk with one another. Just like in a face-to-face event, let them interact with the hosts, guest speakers, or even fellow guests.

4.      Prepare to troubleshoot

You have to brace yourself for any technical difficulties, especially since some users aren’t acquainted with the technology that they are using. Use a backup platform or try fixing the issue to run the program smoothly.

5.      Debrief

Once the event is over, take some time to talk with your team and go over what worked and what didn’t. This will help your team prepare for another virtual event.

Virtual events won’t go anywhere! Now that most people are accustomed to connecting online, it is important to take advantage of the digital resources that we have today.