- A lot of business, networking and social life
has now moved online, some permanently,
and the virtual event industry is currently the place to be.
And we're going to explore what virtual events are,
how they work and how you can host an engaging event
that will have your viewers coming back for more.
- Now, chances are that you've attended a webinar,
a workout class, or maybe even a wedding
using a video streaming app at some point
in the last couple of years.
You might even have attended a major conference
from the comfort of your desk, couch or bed.
Don't worry, we're not gonna tell anyone,
I do it all the time.
- Good point Nealey, and I've actually attended all of those
via virtual event.
So let's talk about types of virtual events.
But if you're on the other end of things,
you can host a virtual event for virtually, ha, get it,
any reason, but here are some popular types
of virtual events.
First off, virtual team-building events. I love these.
This could be a virtual happy hour
or maybe a group game of Jackbox,
and these types of gatherings build team morale.
And they're also just a great way to connect with friends
and family, all from the comfort of their own home.
I've had many a virtual happy hours or game hours
right here in this room, right here on this camera.
And it's definitely helped my overall morale.
- And then you can do virtual workshops.
So this type of event is the perfect way
to provide hands-on training
when providing traditional face-to-face instruction
just is not possible or inconvenient.
They're also great for training
where there might not be enough space
to accommodate a large number of participants.
- And there are also virtual conferences.
Have you attended one in the past two years? I have.
Virtual conferences allow you to host large gatherings
without the need for a pricey venue or a big event team.
I love saving money. So these are very appealing.
And just like traditional, in-person conferences,
virtual ones provide plenty of opportunities for attendees
to interact with one another and collaborate on new ideas
in unique ways.
I've definitely seen some great networking occur
in a chat box during a live event.
- Webinars are another easy way to connect
with professionals from all over the world.
Hosting a webinar is simple, yet an effective way
to build your reputation and expand your network
in the virtual space.
I've lost count from how many webinars I've attended
over the past couple years, right from this very seat.
- And I've lost count of how many webinars I've hosted,
right from this very seat.
Another form, live streams.
Live streams on platforms like Instagram or Facebook
can help you make connections with existing
and potential customers and other people
in your industry or niche.
And they are a trendy way to build awareness
for your product.
You can also share new ideas and opinions,
and introduce yourself to potential clients
and expand your reach.
- Now that we've talked about the different types
of virtual events that you can host or create,
let's talk about tips for hosting the actual events.
And my first tip for you is to set clear goals
from the start.
Knowing what you want to gain by hosting a web-based event
will help you put the right things in place.
Want to increase your email subscriber list?
Be sure to include a call to action with links to sign up.
Have a featured speaker or presenter?
Prepare the appropriate digital assets needed
to introduce them and their topic.
You have a live, captive audience at your disposal,
and it's time to make the most of it.
- Be sure to choose the right platform
to host your virtual event.
Depending on the target audience,
you might need to pick one platform over another
in order to increase the number of potential viewers.
And the age range for viewers on Facebook
are slightly different, older,
than those on Twitch or TikTok.
So do some research on the best options for your needs.
- Then you'll want to choose the right time for your event.
If you've intended to have viewers
from different parts of the country
or even different parts of the globe,
make sure you schedule your event at a convenient time
for everyone involved.
And it goes without saying,
but typically the more people who can attend,
the more successful your event will be.
- And let's not forget promotions.
Promoting your virtual event is key.
Once you've put all the pieces together,
it's time to let everyone know about it.
So share it across social media platforms, email lists,
and even on your website.
And this can be a great opportunity to boost signups
for your email marketing list too.
And they provide their email, you can provide a link
to the event, it's a win-win.
- A win-win is always great, but with all of this,
prepare to troubleshoot.
Having a plan and the proper technology in place
will mean fewer headaches for you should something go wrong.
And a strong internet connection is always a good idea,
as well as some quality video and audio equipment.
The last thing you want to do is freeze up du...
- Nealey, Nealey? Are you there.
- Your event.
(Emma laughs)
Did I lose you, Emma?
You there? Hello?
- I'm here.
- Okay. All right, take it away.
- All right, whether you're hosting a conference,
a meeting or a huge show,
putting it online is a smart digital strategy
for any business.
While we know that virtual events do not hold the same power
of face-to-face interactions,
circumstances may necessitate going virtual,
sometimes on very short notice.
All right, that's a wrap,
but your journey doesn't have to end here.
We have over 250 videos for you to watch.
Be sure to like, subscribe and comment. Thanks for watching.
This is The Journey.