Virtual Events have been on the rise as many organisations are looking for solutions for cancelled events. However, it would be erroneous to assume that virtual events should only be a back up plan. They could actually be more cost-effective and perform just as well as, if not better than a physical event.
Read on to find out the things you should know before hosting a virtual event!
What is a Virtual Event?
A virtual event is typically live streamed online. They have become increasingly popular due to the slew of benefits they bring to both the organisers and the attendees.
Some events are completely virtual, whereas others are hybrid events whereby there is a mix of virtual and in-person components.
Why Host Virtual Events?
Unlike events that take place in a physical location, virtual events allow people from all around the globe to participate. This means your organisation would be able to reach a wider audience.
It will also be easier to track which sessions fare better, exact number of attendees and more. Organisations can use this information to improve their event strategy.
A virtual event is also more cost-effective than a physical event. There would be no need to spend on booking a venue or hiring people to perform crowd control. With the money saved, your organisation would be able to invest that money in something else. For example, lowering ticket prices for your audience.
Do:
Incorporate Ads for Revenue
For longer events, you may consider freeing up space for advertisements during breaks. This is an excellent way to work with brands and gain extra revenue without wasting the empty slot for scheduled breaks.
It also gives your audience something to look at during breaks instead of having to stare at a blank screen or wait around for your next segment. However, it is important to choose your ads wisely. Selecting a brand related to your event theme would be better than choosing something totally irrelevant.
Engage a Professional
Despite having lesser logistics involved compared to a physical event, there are still many things to consider. The last thing you would want happening during your virtual event is to have the stream crash or stop abruptly. This would not reflect well on your organisation, and might deter viewers from joining your next event.
Quality and user experience are arguably the most important factors of a successful virtual event. By engaging a professional live stream service provider, you would not have to worry about the technical aspects of your event. With industry-grade equipment and expertise from years of experience, your virtual event is sure to leave a positive and lasting impression on your viewers.
Make Your Content Engaging
Like a physical event, your guests would want to feel involved and engaged. You can do so by incorporating Q&As, polls or even games during your virtual event. The more creative and fun you get, the more invested your audience will be.
If you wish to add entertainment to your online event, check out Red Kite’s array of choices here. Contact them for livestreaming some music to lighten up the online atmosphere! Find out more about how that can happen from this article.
Don’t:
Base Your Expectations on Physical Events
While virtual and physical events do have similarities, they also have stark differences. It would be incorrect to assume your virtual event runs the same way a physical one does.
Physical events usually hold ticket sales in advance, whereas most virtual events can be attended last minute. Pre-registration numbers will not give you the exact number of attendees.
Instead, you may better understand the ROI of virtual events through audience participation, discussions and content downloads.
Use the Wrong Tech
This highly depends on your target audience. Younger audiences might prefer an event optimised for mobile phones, whereas mature audiences might appreciate a more secure login. Mature audiences are also more likely to be willing to pay for richer content and higher production value.
Live Streaming Platforms for Hosting a Virtual Event
Popular live stream platforms
Facebook allows you to share content with content with your followers and the public at no cost. Your followers will also receive a notification from Facebook whenever you go live.
Demio
Demio is a user-friendly platform that allows for multiple hosts and conducting polls during your live stream. They offer a free trial that you may utilise before deciding on purchasing the paid version, which starts from 34 USD.
Zoom
Zoom is a cloud platform for video and audio conferencing, chat, and webinars for multiple devices. For personal meetings up to 100 participants, zoom is free of charge. Paid packages with more functions start from 14.99 USD.
Instagram Live allows users to stream video to followers and engage with them in real time. When you broadcast a live stream, there would be a ring highlighting your profile picture in Instagram Stories to alert followers to view your live. It is also cost-free and easy to navigate.
Examples of Virtual Events
- Trade shows
- Marketing summits (B2C or B2C)
- Online product launches
- Industry conferences
- Virtual AGM
- Sales conferences
- Sales resource enters
- Partner events
- Virtual employee benefits fairs
- Internal company training
- Virtual job fairs
- Certifications
- Learning management
- Company news
- Executive updates
- Townhall meetings
- Critical communications
- Virtual expositions
Virtual Events – Do’s and Don’ts
With social distancing measures being likely to stay in place for a while, virtual events might become the new normal. When carried out effectively, a virtual event can build sales and elevate an organisation’s profile.
Rather than a back up plan, it should be seen as an equally powerful tool to promote an organisation or cause.
If you have any enquiries regarding live stream services, get in contact with our project coordinators, who will be happy to assist you.
