While the world is slowly but surely returning to pre-pandemic normalcy, virtual events will continue to be a top consideration for companies well into the future. Virtual event and meeting spaces offer plenty of benefits, but only when executed properly.
Unlike with physical events, virtual events present many unique technological challenges that can determine its success or failure in an instant. To help ensure your next virtual event goes off without a hitch, consider the following four strategies designed to increase attendance and overall success.
Top 4 Virtual Event Strategies to Increase Attendance
Audience Engagement
Before the event even begins, it’s important to engage with your audience. Send personalized invitations to give your audience a sneak preview of what they can expect during your event. Consider sending out invitation packets to guests who have pre-registered.
You can also use the registration link to gather questions from the audience for keynote speakers at your event, allowing them to feel more included in the event preparation process. Depending on the virtual platform used to host the event, there may also be the opportunity to have your audience participate in QA rooms or provide questions in real-time.
2. Keynote Speakers
Just like with an in-person event, you want to give your guests a reason to come. Finding a great keynote speaker is one way to pique invitees’ interest enough to attend. Be sure that you set up plenty of rehearsal sessions to ensure the quality of your video and sound equipment before the day of the event arrives. It’s also a good idea to pre-record your keynote speaker as a backup in case technical difficulties or an unforeseen event keeps your speaker from being able to attend.
One great tool you can use during your virtual event to encourage audience engagement with your keynote speaker is Slack. Members of your audience can pre-register to use the messaging tool during the event and interact with other participants and the speaker. Be sure to have a moderator available to relay all questions to the speaker and keep the conversation moving.
3. Incorporate Interactivity
The biggest challenge with any virtual event is providing interactive opportunities for the audience. Along with QA sessions and messaging tools, consider other ways to keep your audience engaged throughout the event. Consider using breakout groups as an opportunity for your guests to mingle with one another and network. Other interactive elements might include:
- Audience giveaways
- Games
- Icebreaker exercises
- Leaderboard challenges
- Award/participation badges
4. Participant Swag
Hosting a virtual event doesn’t excuse you from the time-honored tradition of showering your guests with swag! During the registration process, be sure to request your guests’ address information so you can send them company swag or any needed event materials prior to your virtual conference. Sending a company gift or care package will tie the entire experience together while leaving a lasting impression on your guests’ minds.
Plan Your Virtual Event with Megan Miller Marketing!
If you’re looking to host your own virtual event but aren’t sure where to start, Megan Miller Marketing is here to help. From Fashion Week in New York City to professional networking conferences, event marketing is kind of our “thing.” Our team works carefully with each client to create a custom-tailored virtual event experience that perfectly communicates the essence of their brand. Allow our team to help make your next virtual event a sensational success by contacting our event marketing experts today!