The forecast of virtual events looks bright. By 2028, the market size for virtual events is expected to reach $366,450 million.
Have you ever attended a virtual event? If so, what was your experience like? What about if you’d like to learn how to plan a virtual event yourself?
Virtual events are any type of event that is done strictly online. Anyone with an internet connection can attend a virtual event. Virtual events are held via live stream video, recorded video, audio calls, etc.
If you’ve ever gone live on YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok, then you’ve hosted an impromptu event. If you’d like to learn how to plan a virtual event yourself, read our guide below.
Why Host a Virtual Event?
Before we dive into how to plan a virtual event, let’s first discuss the why. Hosting a virtual event has the attendees’ best interest in mind.
For one, they are cost-effective. Many people lead busy lives, have physical disabilities, or lack financial means.
From the host’s perspective, you can run many event metrics to make the next event even better.
How to Plan a Virtual Event
Learning how to plan a virtual event has a lot of parallels with a traditional in-person event. However, there are certain things you’ll need to pay attention to, like the target audience, the event type, the venue, and the technology needed.
Target Audience Research
Having a target audience in mind is the first step in the process. Since anyone with an internet connection can attend, you’ll need to think differently.
Hone in on a problem you’d like to solve. What will have a lasting impact days or weeks after the virtual event? Have digital tools like workbooks for all attendees to soak up the value you provide.
Virtual Event Type
What type of event will you run? Do you prefer live streams or pre-recorded videos? You could even do a hybrid model as well.
Pre-recorded sessions are nice too since they will be evergreen and the attendees can download them for later use.
Remember, you are creating engaging events here. This is why we recommend that if you do live streams you offer a Q&A section.
Venue
The venue in this case will be in the form of social media sites/apps, a Zoom link, etc. Create a unique URL if you’re hosting pre-recorded material.
Require attended to provide an e-mail address so that you can grow your customer base.
Technological Needs
To help facilitate your virtual events, you’ll need proper technology. After you’ve honed in on your goals and organized a well-thought-out plan, get ahold of virtual event planning software like shoflo.tv.
Make Your Next Virtual Event a Success
Now that you’ve learned how to plan a virtual event, what will you do with it? Get your team together and get to work! Start brainstorming so you can host many engaging events in the future.
Speaking of the future, it sure does look bright with virtual event planning. No longer are we restricted by a physical space. The internet has opened us up in this way.
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