We all know the joke about meetings that could have been emails – but there are still many important events that cannot successfully be executed in a thread of text communications. Whether we like to admit it or not, as social creatures, person-to-person interfaces are about more than just what is said. We are constantly evaluating each other in many non-verbal ways. Body language tells us whether or not someone is confident and knowledgeable about a topic. Someone’s ability to involve others in the conversation demonstrates leadership skills. A person that thinks quickly on their feet might be creative or a problem solver. Digital and virtual events must deliver this same multifaceted type of experience in order to be considered successful. Here are a few ways to ensure that happens.
- Think Like a Storyteller
The best interactions – virtual or physical – are those that follow a logical, interesting flow. Know what your end goal is and work backwards while planning to figure out the touchpoints people will need to encounter in order to align with the concept you are presenting or opinion you want them to share.
- Ditch “Impromptu”
If it’s important enough to invite attendees and you expect a certain turnout – then it’s worth planning in advance and putting the time and resources towards making it is thought through. This includes considering technology limitations for some or all of your audience, whether or not to utilize audio/video enhancements, and any special needs like pre-recorded content.
- Be Audience-Centric
The most popular online, digital, and virtual personalities have earned their recognition by knowing and appreciating what their audience wants to experience. They do not simply bombard people with what they feel is important. Instead, they take time to research and observe trends, learn what motivates those preferences, and then build those thoughts into their content and events in authentic ways.
- Commit to Consistency
Very few of us ever watch one episode of a television show and immediately become hard-core fans. It takes time for us to get to know the characters, appreciate their viewpoints, and forge internal/emotional connections. The same is true for your virtual events. When you repeat the experience over time, you grow deeper and more meaningful relationships – so make your events something that is worth having on a schedule and then commit to making it happen.
- Choose the Right Partner(s)
Knowing what you know is powerful. Knowing what you don’t know is even better. With the right partner(s) by your side – you’ll gain the advantage of their expertise in technology, staging, content management and development, appearance coaching, presentation delivery, and metrics for measuring response… all while you look like a genius. The right partner will have a diverse skill set, a flexible mindset, and a results-focused/deadline-oriented approach. (Or, you could always just contact us)
About the VIBE Agency: The VIBE Agency is a Miami-based award-winning full-service production agency that specializes in the creation and orchestration of live and virtual experiences for the corporate industry. The agency is forward-thinking and was recognized as one of the 50 top event companies by Special Events magazine in 2019.
