Hosting small online events can be a great way to network, showcase content, or provide value to your members. Here are some tips to help ensure your online event is a success:
- Set clear objectives: Before anything else, understand what you want to achieve. Is it to generate leads? Brand awareness? Educating your audience? Setting clear objectives will guide your decisions in organising the event.
- Choose the right platform: There are many different online event platforms available, so it’s important to choose one that’s right for your online event needs. Consider your budget, the content you’ll be sharing and the size of the event.
Some platforms offer features tailored for webinars, while others are best for interactive meetings. Beyond the well-known platforms, Zoom and Microsoft Teams, other options include:
- EventsAir
- Stova
- Webex
- Google Meet
- Promote in advance: Use social media, email marketing, and your website to let people know about your event. If your event is bigger, consider creating a landing page specifically for it.
- Test your technology: Do a trial run to check the tech setup, familiarise yourself with the platform’s tools, and ensure that any presentations or videos work seamlessly.
- Engage your audience: Interactivity keeps participants engaged. Use polls, Q&A sessions, breakout rooms, or even games and quizzes relevant to your event topic.
- Have a plan B: Technical issues can arise. Have backup plans for internet outages, platform failures, or speaker dropouts. Inform your audience in advance about how to re-join or where to get updates in case of interruptions.
- Keep it concise: Respect your attendees’ time. If you promised a one-hour event, stick to that timeline.
- Record the event: Offer a recording for those who couldn’t attend. It’s also a valuable resource for content repurposing.
- Gather feedback: After the event, send out a survey or feedback forms. Understand what went well and where you can improve.
- Follow up: Send out a thank you email to all attendees. This is also a chance to share any additional resources, offers, or links to the recorded event.
- Stay updated with tech: The online event landscape is continually evolving. Stay updated with new tools and features that can enhance the attendee experience.
- Have a co-host or moderator: Especially if you expect many attendees. They can help manage questions, technical issues, or chat rooms.
- Promote networking: One of the primary reasons people attend events is to network. Offer breakout rooms or networking time where attendees can meet and chat.
- Provide value: Like any event, don’t forget that attendees want to come away feeling they gained something from the event. Whether it’s in the form of knowledge, networking opportunities, or exclusive deals, make sure attendees leave feeling the time was well-spent.
The key to success is preparation. The more prepared you are, the smoother your event will run. A well-run event will ensure your audience is engaged and will want to return for more.
If you are struggling with any of the above and would like to know more about how we can support you, call us on 01489 668333 or email heather@compleatgroup.co.uk
To hear what some of our clients have said about working with Compleat take a look at our Video Testimonials.
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