b'7 Tips For Hosting a Great Virtual EventAS YOU MIGHThave noticed, virtual events are big right now.Setting up the environment, plugging in the content pieces, test-The pandemic forced the cancellation of countless events thating the platformeverything takes time.have gone online as webinars, virtual conferences and digital meetings. 4. Engage Your Audience Well Before the EventBut just like putting on an in-person event, staging a virtualIf it is a free event, there is a huge possibility of people register-one is no walk in the park. It takes skill to do it right. As someoneing for the event but not attending. Send the right reminders with experience in this area, Ive learned several tricks to put- with the right content. Build excitement for the event, have ting on a great virtual eventone that wont make people say,an engaging landing page showing what the environment will What a headache, I cant wait until we can go back to doing thislook like on the live day and what to expect, and why someone the traditional way. should not miss this event.1. Start with Defined Goals 5. ACIDRemember This AcronymThe sky might be the limit, but the possibilities presented by theRight Accessibility: The majority of your audience will be online world are limitless. Almost everything is possible virtuallyaccessing the platform through their mobile devices. Make sure these days, but clearly defining the scope and goals of your vir- you have a responsive environment which is accessible through tual event sets the foundation for success. Is your virtual event aall devices.conference, field day, meeting or a trade show? What are yourRight Content: Content is still king but choose wisely the type objectives and what goals do you want to achieve? How manyand volume of content based on your design and event type. A attendees? How many days? video greeting is always a good option to build excitement for the event. Content should always be precise and timely. Include 2. Pick the Right Platform takeaways that attendees can add to their virtual briefcase.There are number of platforms that are available for hosting aRight Interactions: Allow attendees to ask or post questions virtual event. You can pick one or custom design a solution toduring the sessions. If it is a virtual trade show, include the option meet your needs. Choose the one that is scalable, flexible andof interacting with booth reps (text chat, audio/video confer-familiar to you. Speaking engagements and sessions can eitherence), and the option to collect and download different digital be live, semi-live or on demand. All thesecontent items. Keep the audience engaged for the whole dura-have their pros and cons. Carefully picktion of the event. Throw in notifications for any upcoming activity the right combination that resonatesor session.well with your audience. Right Design: A virtual event is not a website or a blog. You want your attendees/audience to spend a considerable amount 3. Set a Realistic Timeline of time on your platform. Mimic the actual environment. If you Going virtual doesnt mean therewould traditionally have your event in a hotel, design a virtual are no logistics associated withlobby. If you are hosting a field day, design an outdoor interface.the event. Create a comprehen-sive project plan as you would do6. Do a Dry Runfor your actual traditional event.Make sure you test the platform, especially if you have multiple speakers/panelists. Train them on the tool if they will be present-ing live. Test their internet connection and their audio and video devices well before the event. Pre-record their session for a backup in case they are not able to join.RUSKIN JOHNSONDIRECTOR, DIGITAL SERVICES,7. Mimic a Traditional Event Experience (BeginningISSUES INK MiddleEnd)rjohnson@issuesink.com Follow a schedule. Incorporate a flow. Your audience should www.issuesink.com know whats over and whats coming next.28/ SEEDWORLD.COMSEPTEMBER 2020'