Six Must-Haves for a Successful Virtual Event
Virtual events have been relevant, even before COVID-19 reared its ugly head. From online tradeshows to webinars to live-streamed conferences and performances — virtual events are embedded in society. But what are the essentials needed to ensure that the event runs seamlessly? Here are six elements that one has to consider when planning a virtual event that will entertain and educate.
Virtual event website
Like in-person events, virtual events benefit from a dedicated website or landing page. Having an online presence creates a sense of realness, although your event will take place in the virtual realm. Social media is a great tool, but not everyone is on every social media platform. Also, you’re working against algorithms.
Here are some essentials that you don’t want to miss on your virtual event website:
When and where? What’s the date and start time of the event? Where are people meeting (virtually, of course)?
What is your “why”? Clearly describe what people will get from the virtual event if they register.
o Networking opportunities?
o Entertainment?
o Learning a new skill set?
Event title. Give your event a title that clarifies the event topic or goal. Oh, and don’t forget to choose a hashtag (more than likely, it will be identical to the event title).
Call to action and registration. Make it easy for prospective guests to become registered attendees. You must have a call-to-action that stands out and encourages prospects to register.
Appealing images that reflect the event. Include photos that reflect the goal of the event. If it’s a happy hour, use stock photos that represent that. We love imagery!
Social Proof (Testimonials). If this is a repeating virtual event, add quotes from happy attendees. Social proof is a HUGE selling point. This is why post-event surveys are so important (don’t forget that step)?
Event Registration
Event registration technology is what is going to bring together your virtual event and your event marketing. Whether you’re using a registration link to an existing website or an event platform, your process has to be secure and seamless. Here’s what you’d want to collect in the registration phase:
· Attendee information
· Level of access (i.e., standing vs. VIP)
· Session sign-up
· Order summary
· Payment page
Don’t forget to ask registrants how they learned of the event. This will give you insight on where to focus your marketing next time.
Live-streaming software
Most online events are live-streamed; therefore, you will want to have attendees gather on a live-streaming app. There are many technology options for live-streaming events, including:
o YouTube Live
o Facebook Live
o Periscope
o Livestream
o Twitch
…and many more.
Webinar platforms
Some video streaming platforms are best for interactive virtual events, such as business meetings, training sessions, and small networking events. Rather than viewing a stream, these platforms allow virtual event attendees to interact with each other. Here are some platforms that we recommend:
o Zoom
o GoToWebinar
o WebEx
o ClickMeeting
These platforms enable the host to share screens dynamically and hold back-and-forth conversations with attendees.
With these tools, you can ensure your participants register for your event and receive communication around agendas, time, and more.
Webinar platforms also allow you to track engagement and give you a complete view of your attendees’ event activity history.
Reliable WiFi
Have you ever attended a virtual event that was super laggy, or you kept getting kicked off? Not fun at all. You want to triple-check that your WiFi is reliable. Always perform test runs before your event, especially if you have other people that will be hosting the event or will be featured.
Event marketing software
Your virtual event needs a promotion strategy so that people register and show up at the allotted time. Event marketing software helps you design your promotion strategy and schedule your marketing emails, social media posts, and advertising. Not only that, but event marketing software also helps you:
o Send reminders to invitees who haven’t registered
o Send reminders to super-busy registrants
o Track social engagement
o Track email open rates
Tell me, do you have a virtual event in the works? If so, we wish you the best of luck. If you need a little help, consider Darra Michelle Events and Consulting to help transform your virtual event ideas into a virtual event success story!
Until next time,