This is a seriously confusing and frustrating time for event hosts. One day we’re excited about the prospect of hosting a live workshop or course, the next day Covid cases are on the rise and we’re back to masking. It’s a roller coaster. And it’s exhausting.
I know you are as tried as I am of hearing about the future of live events. Uncertainly can be compelling and exciting, it can also be draining and stagnating. It’s hard to make clear decisions in a state of uncertainly.
So, I invite you to make a decision – just for now.
Just for now – let’s focus on what we know we can do today. Let’s focus on virtual events and how you as a business owner, educator or entrepreneur can create the very best experience possible. An experience that rivals the live event experience. Imagine if you were known in your industry as the person who hosts the most amazing and impactful virtual events.
I’ve compiled some of my top tips and tricks for designing and delivering high-value, high-engagement virtual events and I’ve distilled them down into this slick little 17 Point Checklist. You’ll notice a few links in this list too. Those are there for you if you want more detail on a particular item.
17 Point Killer Virtual Event Checklist
- Be fully prepared, as if you were about to step on a live stage.
- Include high-quality branded materials like handouts and worksheets.
- Do a dry run. Rehearse your timing and tech. All hosts and presenters should be present.
- Have technical support/virtual event producer to help with the back end. Provide attendees with a number to text support before and during the program. Your job is to be present and teach, not help people with issues logging in or finding the chat box.
- Be certain you don’t have too much content for the allotted time. Again, rehearse your timing.
- Include engaging activities that enhance learner retention.
- Design an intentional backdrop for your virtual stage. Preferably not a virtual background.
- Make sure you have good lighting. Your face should be well lit, but not washed out.
- Do you have a good webcam? The one on your computer may not cut it. Especially if it’s located at the bottom of your screen. Do you really want your audience looking up your nose?
- Test your sound quality. You may need an external mic to provide a quality experience. A good webcam may have a mic on it too.
- Vary your graphics and props. Use flipcharts, props, slides, etc.
- Think – Before, During and After when designing your audience experience.
- Do you have a great way to Open and Close your program? The most valuable real estate of your program is the beginning and end. That’s what people remember most.
- If at all possible get your audience physically moving during the session.
- Prior to your start time, have all event documents, slide decks, handouts, attendance rosters, etc. in one place that is easily accessible to you.
- Make sure your tech assistant or virtual producer has a copy of all related documents and slide decks and has them open and accessible.
- Be logged in early and have a welcoming environment ready to greet your guests.
Let’s not kid ourselves. This is not an exhaustive list. It’s a great start though. If you do these things and set an intention for delivering great value to your audience, the effort will show. And your audience will be much more likely to return for more.
Are you ready to make the decision and move? I’m hear to help. Email me at sheri@waybeyondordinary.com and we’ll talk.
