One of the biggest challenges during an event, whether it’s a webcast or a virtual conference or… whatever you may be doing, is keeping the attention of your attendees. After all, Facebook beckons!
There are many things you can do – but you need a good mixture of options. Some people love taking in the video, others want to follow along with slides, still others want related tasks. One idea that can help is email during the event. Keep in mind that your attendees have many things on their respective plates. Chances are, they’re keeping track of their email as well.
You can play to this a bit by sending out emails with additional information during the event. Perhaps an email to those that are in a specific meeting at the time, or to those that visit a booth. You can use email touches to provide quick tidbits and suggestions – perhaps additional tips, best practices or other ideas that go in line with the presentation. You can even link to specific assets in the event and let them download them. These emails are great touch points for offering check lists and other items that support the materials presented.
What you’re looking for are reasons to keep the attendee engaged. A little tidbit here, a tidbit there and they will begin to really see additional value from related elements in the event. This is really helpful when the sessions build on one-another as well. Perhaps send out a session track map – one that shows how the current session will lead into another, with a preview of what to expect.
The key is to make sure the attendee knows all they can get from your virtual conference or webcast/webinar. Many times people are so caught up in getting into the event and getting settled, then getting distracted, that they don’t realize they can get slides, can watch a short, related video or that there is a method to the madness of the session schedule.
This is also a great time to have the email include information about sponsors in a subtle way. It’s more of a product placement logo footer than a “Go check out our sponsor” type message, but it’s valuable and reinforces the brands associated with your event.
Evolving Online Events 