Online events once entered our lives out of adversity and haven’t left since then. Now that almost every other organization has already embraced the concept of online events, it can be safely said that virtual events are here to stay for a longer period. 

Seeing the popularity of online events, we assume almost everyone knows what these kinds of events are. However, if you are one of those people, who have no clue about online events, don’t worry. This blog has got you covered. 

Here, we are going to give you an overview of online events and a few basic things you should know about online events. 

Let us start with the meaning of online events. Without getting into technicalities, online events are simply those events that are held online on an online event platform, through the internet. Unlike physical events, online events don’t require the attendees and organizers to travel. Thanks to advanced technology, people from all over the world can connect with each other through the internet and customizable virtual event platforms; all without having to move out of their homes and comfort zones. 

Here are some of the most common advantages of going online with events. 

Economic: 

One of the most prominent benefits of hosting virtual events is they are way more economical than physical events. Unlike physical events that come with several expenses like venue, catering, logistics, etc. Virtual events come easy on the pockets of both attendees and organizers. The only significant expenditure on online events is an online event platform. 

Higher Audience Reach: 

Since virtual events don’t require the attendees to travel to the event venue, they come with an excellent opportunity for the organizers to tap into a wider range of audiences. Moreover, even attendees find it feasible to attend online events as they are more time and cost-efficient. 

Repurposing of Content: 

Virtual events allow you to repurpose your content in more than one way. How? Online event platforms come with recording functionality. With this feature, the organizers can record their entire event and later use the recording at their convenience. For example, they can use the recording to send it across to the attendees who couldn’t make it to the online event. Moreover, they can also use the snippets to upload on their social media platforms, expanding the reach of the event and brand. 

More Qualified Leads: 

Not many believe but virtual events help the organizers to generate more qualified and organic leads. Zoominfo’s study reveals that around 20%-40% of webinar attendees turn into qualified leads. 

Expert Tips to Host Successful Online Events: 

Now that you know the meaning of online events along with their advantages, let us move ahead with the tips and tricks to host successful online events. 

Keep realistic expectations: 

Indeed virtual events are replicas of physical events, but they have their own limitations and advantages. Virtual events are different from physical events in several ways, and you need to consider those while planning your next virtual event. If you have set unrealistic expectations, your virtual event might see a failure. Instead of comparing virtual and physical events, it would be better to plan and execute everything keeping your virtual event in mind. 

Select tech on the basis of event format:

The next tip is to select the virtual event platform on the basis of the format and type of your virtual event. It is very crucial to keep your event format in mind while selecting a platform. Don’t just pick any platform because it is convenient or falls into your budget. Instead, enlist your event requirements, the kind of event you are planning, and then go with a platform that goes well with your event. 

Have a backup plan, Always. 

It doesn’t matter how long you are into virtual event planning, it is not at all advisable to host an event without having a backup plan. As an event organizer, you always need to stay prepared for all the ifs and buts in mind. There is always a possibility of things going wrong during the main event, no matter how proficient your virtual event platform is. Hence, always always have a backup plan. Keep tech equipment handy, and stay prepared for the unexpected. 

Rehearse: 

Not that virtual events have become very popular, we expect that almost all the organizations have gone virtual with the events. But even if you haven’t, experts suggest the event organizers rehearse 2-3 times before the event. It won’t only eliminate the chances of things going wrong, but also it will help your guests and speaker get familiar with the event platform. All these things will ensure the smooth execution of the online event. 

Communicate Clearly With the Attendees: 

It is one of the most overlooked advice or tips. Experts suggest that the organizers should have clear objectives, expectations, aim, and all other elements of the virtual event. More than that, they should always have clear communication with the event attendees. As an organizer, you need to ensure that the attendees are well aware of things in and around the event. Not only this, you should also communicate with them in terms of requirements, objectives and other elements of the event. The intent is to have transparency when it comes to the event, without keeping the audience in dark. It will help you set your authority, and it will build trust between you and the attendees.

Keep the Content Short:

As mentioned above, virtual events are a replica of physical events, but these things are not the same. Where you can deliver long and extended sessions in case of physical events, virtual events differ to them. While hosting a virtual event, ensure that you keep the content short and crisp. Virtual events come with several distractions and challenges, one of them being ‘zoom fatigue’. Hence, it is always advisable to keep the content as short and relevant as possible. 

We hope this blog has helped you understand what online events are. If you haven’t started to host virtual events, here is your sign by the universe.